🎉 Introduction
Fast, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, this Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas is the kind of recipe you’ll lean on again and again. Crisp-tender broccoli, hearty chickpeas, and plenty of garlic come together in a simple stir fry that delivers big flavor with minimal ingredients and effort.
This dish is perfect for:
- Busy weeknights when time is short
- Plant-based meals that still feel filling
- Healthy sides or easy mains
- Anyone who loves garlic-forward, savory dishes
With just one pan and pantry staples, this stir fry proves that simple cooking can still be deeply delicious.
🧰 Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or wok
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
A wide pan helps the broccoli sear instead of steam.
🛒 Ingredients
Carefully balanced for texture, savory depth, and plant-based protein.
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Finish
- Lemon juice (to taste)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Chickpeas add protein and a satisfying bite that pairs perfectly with broccoli.
👩🍳 Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Pat the chickpeas dry with a paper towel to help them crisp slightly.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic and cook for 20–30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Do not let it brown.
Step 4: Add the Broccoli
Add the broccoli florets to the pan. Toss to coat with the garlic oil and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bright green and slightly tender.
Step 5: Add Chickpeas
Add the chickpeas to the skillet. Continue cooking for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chickpeas are heated through and lightly golden.
Step 6: Season
Sprinkle in salt and black pepper. Toss well to evenly season everything.
Step 7: Finish and Adjust
Remove from heat. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Toss once more.
Step 8: Serve Immediately
Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
🍽️ Servings & Timing
- Servings: 3–4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: ~20 minutes
Perfect as a quick main or savory side dish.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat
- Add a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking
Best enjoyed fresh while the broccoli is crisp-tender.
🥄 Variations
Customize your Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas easily:
- Extra Protein: Add tofu cubes
- Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or chili paste
- Soy-Style Flavor: Add a splash of soy sauce
- Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers or snap peas
- Sesame Finish: Add sesame oil at the end
Each variation keeps the dish simple, bold, and satisfying.
❓ 10 FAQs
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, thaw and dry well before cooking. - Do chickpeas need to be cooked first?
Canned chickpeas are already cooked. - Is this dish spicy?
No, it’s mild unless you add heat. - Can I make this oil-free?
Use a non-stick pan and a splash of water. - Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, mild and easy to enjoy. - Why dry the chickpeas?
It helps them brown and improves texture. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. - What goes well with this dish?
Rice, noodles, or flatbread. - Can I meal prep this?
Yes, but texture is best fresh. - Is this a main dish or side?
It works perfectly as either.
🏁 Conclusion
This Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas is a go-to recipe when you want something fast, nourishing, and packed with flavor. With crisp broccoli, hearty chickpeas, and plenty of garlic, it’s a dish that delivers comfort without complication.
Whether served on its own or paired with grains, this stir fry is a reliable, delicious addition to any weeknight routine.
Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas — Bold, Simple, and Plant-Powered
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Pat the chickpeas dry with a paper towel to help them crisp slightly.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 20–30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Do not let it brown.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pan. Toss to coat with the garlic oil and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bright green and slightly tender.
- Add the chickpeas to the skillet. Continue cooking for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chickpeas are heated through and lightly golden.
- Sprinkle in salt and black pepper. Toss well to evenly season everything.
- Remove from heat. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Toss once more.
- Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
Yes, thaw and dry well before cooking. Do chickpeas need to be cooked first?
Canned chickpeas are already cooked. Is this dish spicy?
No, it’s mild unless you add heat. Can I make this oil-free?
Use a non-stick pan and a splash of water. Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, mild and easy to enjoy. Why dry the chickpeas?
It helps them brown and improves texture. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. What goes well with this dish?
Rice, noodles, or flatbread. Can I meal prep this?
Yes, but texture is best fresh. Is this a main dish or side?
It works perfectly as either. 🏁 Conclusion This Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas is a go-to recipe when you want something fast, nourishing, and packed with flavor. With crisp broccoli, hearty chickpeas, and plenty of garlic, it’s a dish that delivers comfort without complication. Whether served on its own or paired with grains, this stir fry is a reliable, delicious addition to any weeknight routine.
