Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili

Highlighted under: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats

This Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.

Ella

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-29T14:26:27.707Z

This Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili is inspired by traditional chili recipes but with a smoky twist. The addition of chipotle peppers brings depth and heat to the dish, making it a favorite among chili lovers.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Rich, smoky flavor that satisfies your taste buds
  • Hearty and filling, perfect for meal prep
  • Quick and easy to make, great for weeknight dinners

A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

Chili is one of those dishes that transcends seasonal boundaries. While it's often associated with cold winter nights, this Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you're looking for a comforting meal during a rainy day or a delicious dish to serve at your next gathering, this chili is sure to impress. Its hearty consistency and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or friendly get-togethers.

Not only is this chili satisfying, but it's also versatile. You can easily adapt the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Want to add more veggies? Toss in some corn or zucchini. Looking for extra protein? Consider adding cooked quinoa or lentils. This recipe allows for creativity while still delivering that signature smoky flavor and warmth.

Nutritional Benefits

Chickpeas are celebrated for their nutritional value, and when combined with black beans, they create a powerhouse of protein and fiber. This Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili not only satisfies your cravings but also fuels your body with essential nutrients. Black beans are rich in antioxidants and can help regulate blood sugar levels, making this chili a smart choice for health-conscious eaters.

Furthermore, the use of fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions adds vitamins and minerals that enhance the overall health benefits of this dish. Plus, the spices, particularly chipotle and cumin, provide anti-inflammatory properties. So, not only are you enjoying a delicious meal, but you’re also nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.

Tips for Perfect Chili

Ingredients

For the Chili

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Enjoy the Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili with your favorite toppings!

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chipotle peppers, cumin, and smoked paprika. Mix well.

Simmer the Chili

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your delicious Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili!

Pair it with cornbread for a complete meal!

Storage and Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of this Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili is its ability to store well for future meals. After cooking, allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. Reheating is simple—just warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

This makes it an excellent option for meal prep. Prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week, and you'll have quick, nutritious meals ready to go for busy days. Just make sure to portion it out correctly to avoid freezer burn when storing in the freezer.

Pairing Suggestions

Pairing this Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili with the right beverages can enhance your overall dining experience. A chilled lager or a light-bodied red wine complements the smoky flavors beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with a hint of lime can be just as satisfying.

For a balanced meal, consider serving the chili with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips. The crunchiness of the chips or the sweet, buttery flavor of cornbread contrasts wonderfully with the chili's rich texture. Adding a simple green salad on the side can also provide a fresh contrast and lighten the meal.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili in advance?

Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the chili?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with the chili?

This chili pairs well with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili is completely vegan and plant-based.

Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili

This Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Ella

Recipe Type: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Chili

  1. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  2. 1 onion, diced
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 bell pepper, diced
  5. 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  6. 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  7. 2 cups vegetable broth
  8. 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
  9. 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  10. 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  11. Salt and pepper to taste
  12. Fresh cilantro for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Step 02

Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chipotle peppers, cumin, and smoked paprika. Mix well.

Step 03

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 04

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your delicious Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 12g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 15g