Smoky Black Bean High-Protein Chili

Name: Smoky Black Bean High-Protein Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups vegetable broth; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Nutritious & Fresh Meals

I absolutely love making this Smoky Black Bean High-Protein Chili on chilly evenings. It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and bursting with nutrient-rich ingredients. With smoky spices and the richness of black beans, this chili is a warming dish that I can rely on for a quick yet satisfying dinner. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day! Whether I’m serving it with cornbread or over rice, this recipe never fails to please everyone at the table, making it a favorite in our household.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:54:27.261Z

Making this Smoky Black Bean High-Protein Chili has been a delightful experiment in my kitchen. I used a mix of spices and smoked paprika to create depth in flavor, and it all came together perfectly. I find that simmering the chili longer really allows the ingredients to meld beautifully and enhances the smoky notes from the spices.

One tip I’ve discovered is using canned black beans rather than dried ones. While dried beans are wonderful, the convenience of canned beans saves me time, and I can always count on their rich, creamy texture. This simple swap has made my weekly meal prep so much easier!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling with a delightful smoky flavor
Loaded with protein and fiber for a nutritious meal
Easy to make and perfect for meal prepping
Versatile - perfect on its own or paired with rice or cornbread

Ingredient Insights

The black beans are the star of this Smoky Black Bean High-Protein Chili, providing a robust source of protein and fiber. They not only contribute to the heartiness of the dish, but their creamy texture helps thicken the chili as it simmers. If you prefer a different bean variety, consider using kidney beans or pinto beans, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile and texture.

Diced tomatoes add acidity and sweetness, balancing the smoky spices. Using fire-roasted diced tomatoes can enhance the complexity of flavors, infusing the chili with an additional layer of smokiness. It’s important to choose high-quality canned tomatoes, as they provide the foundation for the chili’s flavor.

Perfecting Your Chili

To achieve the best flavor, allow the chili to simmer for at least 20 minutes to let the spices meld together. If time permits, feel free to let it simmer longer on low heat, which helps deepen the flavors even more. Just ensure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially if using a pot that retains heat well.

For a spicier kick, consider adding a chopped jalapeño or using a spicier chili powder variety. Additionally, incorporating a splash of lime juice right before serving can brighten the dish, complementing the smokiness and enhancing the overall taste.

Serving Suggestions

This chili can be served in various ways, making it a versatile dish. Pairing it with cornbread is a classic choice, as the sweetness of the bread counters the smoky heat of the chili. For a heartier meal, ladle the chili over a bed of rice or quinoa for added texture and nutrition.

If you have leftovers, this chili stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it thickens too much. Alternatively, it freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to airtight containers for freezing.

Ingredients

Prepare the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups vegetable broth
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready to go for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your chili:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Spices and Beans

Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Stir well to combine, then add the black beans and diced tomatoes to the pot. Mix everything together thoroughly.

Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Once the chili is thickened and rich in flavor, remove it from heat. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your delicious chili!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s also a great dish to freeze for later meals!

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your chili is too thick, simply add a little more vegetable broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Likewise, if it’s too thin, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few additional minutes to help it thicken. A common mistake is under-seasoning; be sure to taste and adjust the salt and spices as needed during cooking.

Another potential issue is the balancing act of flavors. If your chili turns out too bitter, try adding a pinch of sugar or honey to help balance the acidity from the tomatoes. Conversely, if it’s too salty, adding a bit of lime juice can help counteract that saltiness while enhancing the flavors.

Variations to Explore

For those wanting to experiment with texture, consider adding chopped mushrooms, squash, or zucchini. These vegetables not only bring another layer of flavor but also enhance the nutrient profile of the chili. Additionally, you can throw in corn for a touch of sweetness.

If you're looking to make the chili vegan, feel free to substitute the vegetable broth with water; the black beans and spices still offer plenty to keep it flavorful. For a creamier texture, add a splash of coconut milk near the end of cooking, which brings a delightful twist to the traditional chili.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just remember to soak and cook them beforehand, as they will take longer to prepare.

→ How spicy is this chili?

The spice level can be adjusted. If you prefer it milder, reduce the chili powder or add some sour cream on top when serving.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan, as it consists of all plant-based ingredients.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. They often taste even better the next day!