Position your oven rack 4 inches from broiler. Preheat the broiler. Place the bell peppers on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Broil, turning frequently with tongs, until the skin blackens all over, about 10 minutes. Transfer the peppers to a bowl and cover with a plate, and steam until the skin loosens, about 10 minutes. Peel, remove stem and seeds and coarsely chop. Set aside.
In a large soup pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bacon and saute, stirring constantly, until the onion is soft and lightly golden, about 6 minutes.
Stir in the garlic, chili powder, oregano, cumin, red pepper flakes, and salt. Cook until fragrant, 1-2 minutes. Add the roasted peppers, beans, tomatoes, and cilantro and cook until everything is heated through, about 5-6 minutes.Ladle the chili into individual bowls and sprinkle with the cheese and scallions.
Notes
Recipe slightly adapted from the Mayo Clinic Award-Winning Healthy Recipes cookbook