Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili

Name: Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili on busy weekdays when I need a hearty meal without much fuss. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. I appreciate how the slow cooking allows the flavors to develop beautifully, and I can prepare it in the morning and come home to a warm, comforting meal. Whether served with rice or enjoyed on its own, it’s a satisfying dish that the whole family loves.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-01-13T19:34:12.029Z

When I first experimented with this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili, I wanted to create something wholesome that doesn’t skimp on flavor. I found that layering spices with fresh vegetables at the start makes a huge difference in taste. The combination of garlic, cumin, and bell peppers infuses the beans with a depth that really elevates the dish.

One tip I discovered is to let it cook on low heat for as long as possible. This slow and steady approach makes the beans incredibly tender and enhances the overall flavor, resulting in a chili that is rich and satisfying. Serve it hot, and enjoy the warm aromas filling your kitchen!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant flavors from fresh herbs and spices
Simple ingredients come together for a hearty meal
Perfect for meal prep, easy to reheat

      

Ingredient Insights

The base of this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili is canned black beans, which not only save time but also provide an excellent source of protein and fiber. Rinsing and draining them before adding to the crockpot helps reduce sodium content and improves flavor. If you're looking for a unique touch, try using smoked black beans for a hint of richness and depth in flavor.

Fresh vegetables play a crucial role in this chili. The sweetness of the bell pepper complements the earthiness of the beans, while the onion and garlic add layers of aromatic flavor. For a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you’re in a pinch, frozen diced onions and peppers can be used—just sauté them briefly before adding to the pot.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking is the star technique in this recipe. Cooking on low for 6 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying dish. If you're in a hurry, cooking on high for 3 hours is acceptable, but ensure that you stir it occasionally to promote even cooking. Look for the chili to thicken slightly and the vegetables to become tender during cooking.

Always taste the chili before serving. Adjust the seasoning at the end to ensure a perfect balance of flavors. If it tastes a bit flat, a squeeze of lime juice can brighten it up significantly. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker consistency, simply mash a portion of the beans with a fork before serving.

Ingredients

For the Chili

2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients

Chop the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic.

Combine in Crockpot

In a crockpot, combine black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, bell pepper, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and season with salt and pepper.

Cook

Cover and cook on low heat for 6 hours or on high heat for 3 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.

Serve

Once cooked, give it a good stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve with toppings of your choice.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For added heat, consider adding a diced jalapeño or some red pepper flakes. This chili also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep.

Serving Suggestions

For a wholesome meal, consider pairing your Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili with brown rice or quinoa. This adds a great texture and additional nutritional benefits. Alternatively, you can serve it over baked potatoes or top it with avocado slices, cilantro, and a dollop of plain yogurt to enhance its creaminess.

If you’re planning to serve this chili during meal prep, I recommend portioning it out in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be reheated on the stove or in the microwave. Just be sure to stir it well before serving, as it might thicken while refrigerating.

Variations and Customizations

This chili is extremely versatile, so feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences. You can swap the black beans for kidney beans or pinto beans if that’s what you have on hand. Consider adding corn for a touch of sweetness or diced zucchini for extra veggies. The great thing about this dish is that you can adjust it according to seasonal ingredients.

To amp up the flavor even more, try adding a tablespoon of cacao powder or a splash of beer to the mix; these ingredients bring out the richness of the black beans beautifully. For a vegetarian option, ensure your vegetable broth is truly vegetarian, and if you'd like a non-spicy version, simply reduce the amount of chili powder.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried black beans instead?

Yes, but you'll need to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time—typically about 8 hours.

→ Is this chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is completely vegetarian, but you can add ground meat if you prefer.

→ How can I make this chili spicier?

You can add more chili powder, include diced jalapeños, or top with hot sauce before serving.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Sour cream, avocado, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro are all great choices!