Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili

Name: Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love coming home to the warm, inviting scent of my Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili simmering away in the kitchen. It’s so easy to prepare, and the flavors meld beautifully throughout the day while I’m busy with other things. Not only is it a hearty meal that fills you up, but it’s also packed with nutritious ingredients that make me feel good about what I'm eating. Whether served alone or with some toasted bread, this chili is a comforting dish that I crave throughout the week.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T19:25:19.760Z

When I first discovered this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili, I was looking for meals that would save me time during my busy weekdays. I had tried several bean chili recipes, but cooking them in a crockpot made all the difference. The beans become tender, and the spices develop a deep flavor that can't be replicated on the stovetop in a short time.

On one occasion, I decided to experiment by adding some fresh bell peppers, and it turned out to elevate the dish's texture and flavor profile. Since then, I've always included them! It’s little additions like this that make cooking so enjoyable for me.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty flavor that's satisfying for any palate
Packed with protein and fiber for a nutritious meal
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices

      

The Heart of Black Bean Chili

Black beans are the star of this dish, offering a rich, creamy texture and a flavor that deepens as they cook. When selecting dried beans, make sure they are fresh and unblemished, as older beans can take longer to cook and may not soften properly. Soaking them overnight not only helps with cooking time but also enhances their digestibility, making your chili lighter on the stomach while still maintaining a hearty presence.

The combination of chili powder and cumin delivers an earthy warmth that balances the flavors beautifully. If you're a fan of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or a chopped jalapeño in the sauté stage. This will elevate the spice level and give your chili a delightful kick without overshadowing the black beans' natural flavor.

Customizing Your Chili

One of the best aspects of this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables; zucchini, corn, or shredded carrots can introduce new textures and flavors. If using fresh vegetables, sauté them for a few minutes before adding them to the crockpot to ensure they release their moisture into the chili, enhancing its overall richness.

For those looking to make this recipe even heartier, try adding cooked quinoa or cooked brown rice during the final hour of cooking. This will not only bolster the protein content but also add a diverse array of textures that complement the creamy black beans perfectly. Additionally, this dish can easily be scaled up by doubling the ingredients and using a larger crockpot—just ensure you adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start!

Ingredients

1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil

Now that you have everything ready, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your chili.

Prepare Ingredients

Drain and rinse the soaked black beans. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, and sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Combine in Crockpot

Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the crockpot. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour in the vegetable broth, and stir to combine.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beans are tender. Check seasoning and adjust to taste before serving.

Your chili is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider topping your chili with fresh cilantro, avocado, or shredded cheese right before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This black bean chili stores well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze it in individual portions; it can last in the freezer for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.

When reheating from frozen, allow the chili to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the quality of both the texture and flavor. If you're pressed for time, you can also microwave it directly from frozen, just remember to stir it every few minutes to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions

Served solo, this chili is incredibly satisfying, but pairing it with toppings can elevate your meal. I recommend sprinkling some fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of Greek yogurt to add creaminess and freshness. For a crunchy contrast, tortilla chips or cornbread make excellent accompaniments that complement the warm flavors.

If you're entertaining, consider turning this chili into a build-your-own chili bar. Set out toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and jalapeños, allowing guests to customize their bowls. This not only enhances the flavor profile of each serving but also creates a fun, interactive dining experience that everyone can enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned black beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned black beans. Just rinse and drain them before adding them to the crockpot. Reduce the cooking time to about 4 hours on low.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or use hotter chili powder when preparing the chili.

→ Is this chili freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with black bean chili?

You can serve it with cornbread, rice, or even tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.