Healthy Crockpot Quinoa Chili

Name: Healthy Crockpot Quinoa Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Healthy Crockpot Quinoa Chili because it blends hearty ingredients in a way that feels both wholesome and satisfying. The combination of quinoa and beans creates a protein-packed dish that's perfect for meal prep or cozy dinners. As the chili simmers in the crockpot, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich and warming meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to throw everything into the pot and let it do the work for you, leaving you with more time to enjoy your day.

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:04:14.618Z

When I first discovered Healthy Crockpot Quinoa Chili, I was apprehensive about how well quinoa would hold up in a chili. To my surprise, it not only added a lovely texture but also helped to thicken the broth beautifully. I recommend rinsing the quinoa before adding it to the pot, which helps remove any bitter residue and enhances its flavor.

As I continued to perfect the recipe, I found that adding a splash of lime juice right before serving brightens the whole dish. It’s a simple tip, but the zing transforms the flavor profile completely. Now, I can't enjoy chili any other way!

        Why You'll Love This Chili
        Wholesome ingredients that nourish your body and soul
Easy to prepare, with minimal cleanup
Bursting with flavor and perfect for any season

      

Understanding Your Ingredients

The foundation of this Healthy Crockpot Quinoa Chili lies in its wholesome ingredients. Quinoa, a fantastic source of plant-based protein, contributes not only to the dish’s nutritional value but also offers a nutty flavor and a pleasantly chewy texture that enhances the chili. Rinsing the quinoa before adding it to the crockpot is essential; it removes its natural coating, saponin, which can impart a bitter taste if left on. This small step makes a significant difference in achieving a balanced flavor profile.

Beans play a crucial role in this chili—not only do they add protein and fiber, but they also help create a more filling dish. Both black beans and kidney beans lend a slightly different taste and texture, making each spoonful exciting. If you're looking to make this recipe even more suitable for your diet, consider replacing one of the bean varieties with lentils. Just be mindful that lentils can cook quicker, so add them in the latter half of the cooking time.

Cooking Technique Tips

Managing the heat settings on your crockpot is vital for optimal results. Cooking on low for about 4 hours allows flavors to meld deeply, while the high setting for 2 hours is great if you're short on time. However, keep in mind that cooking too long on high can cause the quinoa to become mushy. To check the doneness, look for the quinoa to have a spiraled tail, which shows it's cooked through and can beautifully absorb the chili's spices.

Another crucial technique in this recipe is the art of seasoning. Adding salt and pepper at the beginning is essential, but don't hesitate to taste the chili towards the end of cooking. As flavors concentrate, it might need a little more seasoning to achieve that perfectly balanced flavor. If desired, you can also mix in a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle some cayenne for an extra kick!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious dinner!

Main Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients will come together for a delicious, hearty meal.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your chili!

Combine Ingredients

In your crockpot, add the rinsed quinoa, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together.

Cook the Chili

Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. The quinoa will absorb the flavors and the chili will thicken nicely.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, give the chili a good stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve it hot, topped with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, feel free to add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also customize the beans and veggies based on what you have on hand.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This quinoa chili is an excellent make-ahead meal, perfect for busy weeknights. Once cooked, allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it a great choice for meal prep. If you want to freeze it, portion the chili into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating and enjoy!

When reheating, use the stove for best results. Transfer the chili to a pot, and gently warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the chili has thickened too much in the fridge, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up again. This way, you'll have a steaming bowl of delicious chili ready in no time!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Healthy Crockpot Quinoa Chili, consider garnishing it with fresh toppings. Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness, while a squeeze of lime enhances the chili's overall brightness, balancing the spices beautifully. For those who enjoy a bit of creaminess, a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado slices on top can take this dish to the next level without overpowering its health benefits.

Pair your chili with crusty whole-grain bread or over a scoop of brown rice to make it even more filling. Alternatively, you can use tortilla chips for a fun, casual twist. If you're feeling adventurous, turning this chili into a filling for burritos or tacos adds another layer of versatility to this already fantastic dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the quinoa chili?

Absolutely! This quinoa chili freezes well in an airtight container for up to three months.

→ Can I make this chili vegan?

Yes! All the ingredients used in this recipe are vegan-friendly.

→ How can I add more protein?

You can add more beans or include some plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.

→ Is quinoa chili gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this recipe great for those with gluten sensitivities.