This Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas is a quick, healthy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a light lunch. Packed with protein from the chickpeas and vibrant green broccoli, this stir-fry is seasoned with garlic and a flavorful sauce, making it a satisfying option for vegetarians and vegans alike. Best of all, it can be whipped up in under 20 minutes!
1. Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry With Chickpeas Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any neutral oil like vegetable or avocado oil)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds or green onions for garnish (optional)
For the Stir Fry Sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Broccoli
Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. For added nutrition and less waste, you can also peel and slice the broccoli stems into thin rounds.
Step 2. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, maple syrup, cornstarch (if using), and water. Set the sauce aside to add later.
Step 3. Sauté the Garlic and Onions
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and onion (if using) and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and the onions are softened.
Step 4. Cook the Broccoli
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, along with 2-3 tablespoons of water. Stir to combine, then cover the skillet and let the broccoli steam for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes bright green and slightly tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and add a bit more water if necessary.
Step 5. Add the Chickpeas
Once the broccoli is tender but still crisp, add the chickpeas to the skillet. Stir to combine with the broccoli and garlic. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and add red pepper flakes if you’re using them for some heat. Let everything cook for another 2-3 minutes to warm up the chickpeas.
Step 6. Pour in the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the broccoli and chickpeas, stirring well to coat everything evenly. If using cornstarch, the sauce will thicken as it cooks. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce has slightly thickened and everything is well coated.
Step 7. Serve and Garnish
Remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more soy sauce or salt if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds, green onions, or even a drizzle of extra sesame oil for added flavor.
2. Serving Suggestions
This Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas is versatile and can be served in many ways:
Over rice: Serve with steamed jasmine or brown rice for a complete meal.
With noodles: Toss with rice noodles or soba noodles.
As a side dish: Serve alongside baked tofu, tempeh, or any protein of your choice.
3. Variations
Peanut Sauce Version: Swap the stir fry sauce for a peanut sauce made with peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and a touch of maple syrup or honey.
Lemon-Garlic Stir Fry: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some lemon zest at the end for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Spicy Szechuan Style: Add Szechuan peppercorns and a dash of hoisin sauce for a spicier, more complex flavor profile.
4. Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave for a quick meal.
This Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas is a simple, nutritious, and delicious meal that comes together in minutes. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, plant-based dish that’s packed with flavor. With its versatility and ease of preparation, this stir fry is sure to become a go-to recipe in your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy!
