Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas : A Quick and Nourishing Vegan Dinner

If you’re looking for a healthy, satisfying, and speedy plant-based dinner, this Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas checks every box. It’s packed with colorful vegetables, protein-rich chickpeas, and bold garlicky flavor—all tossed together in a single pan. Whether you’re prepping a weeknight dinner, trying to eat more vegetables, or exploring vibrant vegan chickpea stir fry options, this recipe makes it incredibly easy to do so without compromising on taste.

Perfect for fans of Asian-inspired dishes, this stir fry is ready in under 30 minutes and uses pantry staples you probably already have. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, oil-free optional, and endlessly customizable. This dish is a great addition to your weekly rotation of vegetarian recipes for dinner.

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Why You’ll Love This Vegan Chickpea Stir Fry Recipe

There’s a lot to love about this simple yet flavorful dish. Here’s why it has become a staple in many plant-based kitchens:

Quick to prepare and cook (under 30 minutes)
High in plant protein and fiber
Great for meal prep and leftovers
Budget-friendly with basic, whole-food ingredients
Customizable for different veggies and sauces
Naturally gluten-free and easily oil-free

For more easy, wholesome meals, check out our Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach or the crowd-pleasing Pumpkin Greek Yogurt Pancakes.

Key Ingredients in This Bowl of Chickpea and Vegetable Stir-Fry

This vibrant vegetarian dinner is made with just a few fresh and simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 small head of broccoli, chopped into florets
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small red bell pepper, sliced
1 small carrot, thinly sliced or julienned
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave
1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Want to sneak in more veggies? Add shredded Napa cabbage for a Chinese cabbage stir fry vegetarian twist, or top it with crispy tofu from our Saag Paneer recipe.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas

Step 1: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a drizzle of oil.

Step 2: Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Add the chopped broccoli, carrots, and bell pepper.

Step 3: Stir-fry for about 5–7 minutes, or until the veggies are tender-crisp. Add a little more water if needed to help steam the broccoli.

Step 4: Stir in the chickpeas and cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing them to heat through and soak up flavor.

Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, vinegar or lemon juice, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.

Step 6: Pour the sauce into the pan and toss everything to coat evenly. Let it cook for 1–2 minutes more.

Step 7: Remove from heat and serve with rice, quinoa, or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

If you enjoy bold spices, pair this stir fry with a scoop of Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili on the side.

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Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need for a Fast Vegetarian Stir Fry

Large non-stick skillet or wok
Cutting board and sharp knife
Mixing spoon or spatula
Small bowl (for sauce)
Measuring spoons
Optional: Steamer basket if pre-cooking broccoli

No fancy gear necessary—just a good pan and fresh ingredients.

Make It a Meal: What to Serve with This Stir Fry Dish

This dish can be served on its own or made heartier with:

Steamed jasmine or brown rice
Quinoa or couscous
Rice noodles or soba
Crispy tofu (see Saag Paneer recipe for ideas)
A cool side like Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups for dessert

Or serve it as part of a fall-inspired spread with Pumpkin Crunch Cake for something sweet and seasonal.

Variations: Chinese Cabbage Stir Fry Vegetarian Style and Other Add-Ins

Try these variations:

Chinese cabbage version: Swap broccoli for shredded Chinese cabbage
Add tofu or tempeh: Pan-sear and toss in with the chickpeas
Include mushrooms or snap peas for umami and crunch
Stir in peanut sauce for a Thai-style twist
Serve in a lettuce wrap for a low-carb option

Want more creative meals? Try our Halloween Breakfast Bloody Cinnamon Rolls for spooky seasonal fun.

Tips for the Best Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry Every Time

Use high heat to get a slight char on veggies
Prep ingredients before you start cooking—stir fry goes fast
Steam tougher veggies like carrots briefly before adding
Adjust soy sauce and vinegar to taste
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture

Simple tips, but they make a huge difference in flavor and presentation.

How to Store and Reheat Stir Fry Leftovers

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth
Microwave in short intervals, stirring often
Avoid freezing—broccoli may lose its texture

For an equally meal-prep-friendly dinner, try our Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pancakes for a protein-packed option.

Health Benefits of This Vegan Stir Fry with Broccoli and Chickpeas

This stir fry supports a healthy diet with:

Fiber-rich chickpeas for digestion and fullness
Vitamin C-packed broccoli to boost immunity
Garlic’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits
Low-glycemic, whole ingredients for sustained energy

It’s one of the cleanest, quickest, and most satisfying ways to nourish your body.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Stir Fry Recipes

Overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if needed
Using too much liquid—results in soggy vegetables
Not drying veggies well—leads to steaming, not frying
Adding sauce too early—wait until veggies are almost done
Skipping the garnish—fresh herbs and seeds add flavor and texture

Avoid these, and you’ll master stir fry in no time.

Tasty Vegetarian Recipes Similar to This Dish

More plant-based favorites to explore:

Cabbage Steaks with Garlic and Herbs
Pumpkin Greek Yogurt Pancakes
Creamy Orzo with Butternut Squash
Healthy Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups
Spaghetti Squash with Chia Seed Jam

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FAQs: Chickpeas, Stir Fry Techniques, and Cabbage Options

Can I use canned chickpeas?
Yes, just rinse and drain them before adding.

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, thaw and pat them dry before stir-frying.

How do I make it oil-free?
Use water or broth to sauté instead of oil.

Can I meal prep this?
Absolutely—it keeps well for 3 days in the fridge.

Can I make it spicy?
Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or fresh chilies.

Try This Stir Fry and Share Your Plant-Based Dinner Success

This Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas is the perfect combination of healthy, fast, and delicious. Make it your go-to weeknight meal or serve it alongside your favorite vegetarian dinner staples. If you enjoyed it, be sure to subscribe and share it with someone who needs a little dinner inspiration!

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