Classic Veggie Chili with Corn

Name: Classic Veggie Chili with Corn
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Classic Veggie Chili with Corn is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Packed with a variety of vegetables and protein-rich beans, it's perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-04T22:30:31.497Z

This Classic Veggie Chili with Corn is not only delicious but also a great way to use up any vegetables you have on hand. It's perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty flavors that satisfy any appetite
Packed with nutritious vegetables and protein
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients

      

The Health Benefits of Veggie Chili

Veggie chili is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Packed with a variety of vegetables, this dish provides essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Ingredients like bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini are high in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Additionally, the beans in this recipe are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making this chili a great option for vegetarians and anyone looking to incorporate more meatless meals into their diet.

Another great advantage of this veggie chili is its low-calorie content. By focusing on fresh vegetables and legumes, you can indulge in a hearty meal without worrying about excess calories. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight while still enjoying flavorful dishes. Plus, the inclusion of spices like chili powder and cumin not only enhances the flavor but also offers antioxidant properties that can boost your immune system.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this Classic Veggie Chili is how easily it can be customized to suit your tastes. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. Alternatively, if you like a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the spices. Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what's in season. Sweet potatoes, spinach, or even butternut squash can be excellent additions that enhance both the flavor and nutritional value.

For those looking to make this dish heartier, you can include grains like quinoa or brown rice. These ingredients will not only add texture but also increase the protein content of your meal. If you want to add a bit more creaminess, consider stirring in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving. For a vegan option, avocado or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can provide a similar effect.

Serving Suggestions

This Classic Veggie Chili is versatile when it comes to serving options. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will balance the richness of the chili, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

If you're entertaining guests, serve the chili in individual bowls topped with various garnishes. Offer options like shredded cheese, chopped green onions, cilantro, or avocado to allow everyone to customize their bowl. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavors as guests mix and match to their liking. Don't forget to provide some warm crusty bread on the side for dipping!

Ingredients

Chili Base

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or incorporating jalapeños!

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Remaining Vegetables

Stir in the bell pepper, carrots, celery, and zucchini. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Combine and Simmer

Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, corn, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Cook the Chili

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Once the chili has thickened, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes!

Enjoy your delicious and hearty chili with a side of cornbread or over rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños while cooking.

Storage Tips

Leftover veggie chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This makes it a perfect meal prep option, as you can make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth to loosen it up if it thickens too much.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions of the chili. It freezes well and can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. This way, you can always have a delicious, nutritious meal on hand!

Nutritional Information

This Classic Veggie Chili is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. A serving typically contains around 250 calories, making it a guilt-free option for lunch or dinner. It's rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you full, while the variety of vegetables ensures you’re getting a broad spectrum of vitamins and minerals.

Additionally, the beans provide a solid source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. This chili is also low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free, making it heart-healthy. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or simply looking to maintain a balanced diet, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili in advance?

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

→ Can I freeze the chili?

Absolutely! Allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this chili?

This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips!

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Classic Veggie Chili with Corn is completely vegan and packed with nutritious ingredients.