This Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry With Chickpeas is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that combines tender broccoli florets with protein-rich chickpeas in a savory-sweet sauce. Drawing inspiration from Asian cuisine but with a plant-based twist, this quick stir fry delivers a perfect balance of textures and bold flavors that make it an ideal weeknight dinner option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights
• Plant-based and protein-rich thanks to the chickpeas
• Customizable heat level with adjustable spices
• Packed with nutrients from fresh broccoli, garlic, and ginger
• Works beautifully as a complete meal or versatile side dish

Ingredients

• Oil: Any neutral cooking oil works well here, such as avocado, vegetable, or sesame oil for an extra flavor boost.
• Onion: Fresh onion provides a flavorful base; yellow or white onions work best, but red onions can add a pop of color.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is key for that distinctive aroma and flavor that defines this dish.
• Fresh Ginger: Provides a warm, spicy note that elevates the entire stir fry; use freshly minced for the best flavor impact.
• Spices: A blend of onion powder, paprika, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper creates a complex flavor profile.
• Broccoli: The star vegetable should be cut into even, bite-sized florets for quick and consistent cooking.
• Vegetable Broth: Adds depth of flavor while providing moisture for cooking the broccoli properly.
• Chickpeas: Provides protein and a hearty texture; canned chickpeas offer convenience but home-cooked work well too.
• Rice: Optional for serving, choose your favorite variety from jasmine to brown rice.
• Sauce Components: A combination of water, soy sauce, vinegar, maple syrup, and cornstarch creates a glossy, flavorful sauce that coats every bite.

Variations

Vegetable Medley Stir Fry

Transform this dish by adding bell peppers, carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms alongside the broccoli. The colorful mix not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces different textures and flavors while boosting the nutritional profile.

Protein Swap

Replace chickpeas with tofu cubes, tempeh, or edamame for a different plant-based protein option. For non-vegetarians, add chicken, shrimp, or beef strips marinated in a bit of soy sauce and ginger before cooking.

Asian-Fusion Twist

Incorporate sesame oil and seeds, a splash of fish sauce (if not vegan), and fresh Thai basil or cilantro at the end. Add a squeeze of lime juice before serving for a Southeast Asian-inspired flavor profile that brightens the entire dish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics and Spices

Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, fresh ginger, and all the spices (onion powder, paprika, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne). Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and the mixture becomes fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the pan along with the vegetable broth. Cover partially with a lid to create some steam while allowing moisture to escape. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli becomes tender but still maintains a pleasant bite. The broccoli should be vibrant green and slightly crisp.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Chickpeas

While the broccoli cooks, whisk together the sauce ingredients in a bowl: water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and cornstarch. Once the broccoli reaches the desired tenderness, pour the prepared sauce into the pan and add the drained chickpeas. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, coating all ingredients evenly.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Cut the broccoli florets into similar sizes to ensure even cooking
• Don’t overcook the broccoli – it should remain slightly crisp for the best texture
• Allow the sauce to come to a full simmer to activate the cornstarch for proper thickening
• If you prefer a thinner sauce, reduce the cornstarch to 2 teaspoons
• Toast the chickpeas separately in the oven for 10 minutes before adding them to the stir fry for extra crunch
• For meal prep, double the recipe and store portions in airtight containers for quick weekday lunches

How to Serve

Serve this vibrant stir fry over freshly cooked rice – jasmine, brown, or basmati all work wonderfully. For a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice makes an excellent base. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro for additional flavor and visual appeal. A side of kimchi or quick-pickled vegetables adds a tangy contrast that complements the savory stir fry perfectly.

Make Ahead

This stir fry is ideal for meal prepping. Prepare all vegetables and measure spices up to two days in advance and store in separate containers in the refrigerator. The sauce can be mixed and stored in a jar for up to three days. Once cooked, the complete dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in airtight containers. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce. Note that the broccoli may soften slightly upon reheating but will still be delicious.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works in a pinch! Thaw it first and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Reduce the cooking time by about 3 minutes since frozen broccoli is already partially cooked.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce. Always check your other ingredients, particularly the vegetable broth, to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.

Can I make this stir fry without oil?

Absolutely! Replace the oil with a splash of vegetable broth or water for a completely oil-free version. You may need to add more liquid throughout the cooking process to prevent sticking.

How can I make this recipe less spicy?

Simply omit the cayenne pepper and reduce or eliminate the black pepper. The dish will still be flavorful from the garlic, ginger, and other spices without the heat.

Conclusion

This Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry With Chickpeas brings together simple ingredients to create an extraordinarily flavorful and nutritious meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep option, or a way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this versatile recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite. The perfect balance of textures, flavors, and nutrition makes this stir fry a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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