Name: Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon oil (see recipe notes); 1 onion, diced; 5 garlic cloves, minced; 1 heaped tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Black pepper, to taste; Sea salt, to taste; Pinch of cayenne pepper; 1 medium head of broccoli, cut into small florets; 1/3 cup vegetable broth; 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1/2 cup water; 3 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free if needed); 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or any other sweetener); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Cooked rice of choice

If you’re craving a vibrant, wholesome dish that bursts with flavor and is ready in a flash, this Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe has got you covered. It takes humble ingredients like crisp broccoli, aromatic garlic, and hearty chickpeas, turning them into a colorful, satisfying meal that excites your palate and nourishes your body. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a luscious lunch idea, this recipe balances a touch of sweetness, a kick of spice, and umami goodness, all wrapped in a glossy, irresistible sauce. It’s the kind of dish I keep coming back to because it’s just that good and straightforward!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black frying pan with a silver rim and black handle sits on a white marbled surface. Inside the pan, there are chopped red onions scattered mostly on one side, with small pieces of light yellow chopped garlic next to them. Several spices are laid out in small piles to the left of the onions and garlic, including white salt, red chili powder, light brown and darker brown powders. The pan has a honeycomb pattern at the center and the scene is lit with natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. You’ll find fresh, fragrant herbs, spices that build warmth, and pantry staples turning into a dazzling meal in minutes.

1 tablespoon oil: The foundation for sautéing and locking in the dish’s lovely aroma; choose your favorite cooking oil.
1 onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth when softened, balancing the garlic’s pungency.
5 garlic cloves (minced): The star player that infuses the entire stir fry with pungent, irresistible flavor.
1 heaped tablespoon fresh ginger (minced): Lends a bright, slightly spicy note that wakes up your taste buds.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the savory undertones without overwhelming.
1 teaspoon paprika: Brings warm earthiness and a subtle sweetness to the mix.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds smoky depth that beautifully contrasts the crisp broccoli.
Black pepper & sea salt (to taste): Essentials that highlight and enhance every bite.
Pinch of cayenne pepper: For a hint of heat that uplifts the whole dish without overpowering it.
1 medium head of broccoli (cut into small florets): The nutritious star, providing crunch, color, and that lovely green vibrancy.
1/3 cup vegetable broth: Keeps the broccoli tender and juicy while building a flavorful base.
1 (15 oz) can of chickpeas (rinsed and drained): Adds protein, heartiness, and texture contrast.
Cooked rice of choice (for serving): Perfect for soaking up all the flavorful sauce.
1/2 cup of water: Combines with other sauce ingredients to create the glossy stir fry sauce.
3 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free if needed): Provides savoriness and rich umami.
2 tablespoons rice vinegar or balsamic vinegar: Introduces acidity to brighten and balance flavors.
2 tablespoons maple syrup (or any other sweetener): A touch of natural sweetness to round things out.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce so it beautifully clings to the veggies and chickpeas.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics to Build Flavor

Start by heating your oil in a pan over medium heat. Toss in diced onion, minced garlic, fresh ginger, and all the spices including onion powder, paprika, smoked paprika, black pepper, sea salt, and cayenne pepper. Let them cook together for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften and the mixture fills your kitchen with an incredible aroma. This base is where the magic begins, setting a deeply flavorful foundation.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli to Perfect Tenderness

Next, add your broccoli florets along with the vegetable broth. Stir everything well and let the broccoli gently fry and steam for roughly 10 minutes. The goal here is to achieve that perfect tender-crisp texture where the broccoli is soft enough to enjoy but still has a satisfying crunch, and all that broth helps infuse it with flavor while preventing drying.

Step 3: Whisk Together and Add the Sauce

While your broccoli cooks, mix together the sauce ingredients in a bowl: water, soy sauce, rice or balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and cornstarch. Whisk this well until smooth and pour it right into the pan, stirring in the chickpeas too. This sauce is the heart of the Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe, marrying sweet, tangy, savory, and slightly thick textures all at once.

Step 4: Simmer and Finish Cooking

Bring everything to a boil and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes so it thickens and coats every bit of broccoli and chickpea. Take a moment to taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a sprinkle of cayenne if you want an extra kick. This step ensures every forkful bursts with layered, balanced flavor.

Step 5: Serve with Cooked Rice and Enjoy

Once thickened and flavorful, your Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is ready to be plated. It’s amazing on its own or served over a bed of fluffy rice, noodles, or your favorite grain, instantly turning into a hearty, satisfying meal that looks as vibrant as it tastes.

How to Serve Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

A frying pan filled with cooked broccoli and chickpeas in a dark sauce, the broccoli florets bright green with some light brown seared spots, the chickpeas golden brown and round, both mixed evenly throughout the pan. A wooden spatula rests inside the pan near the right edge. The pan sits on a white marbled surface with a textured light gray cloth in the top left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions over the top to add a lovely crunch and a fresh, sharp bite. A drizzle of chili oil or extra soy sauce on the side lets everyone customize their bowl. These simple touches elevate the dish from delicious to delightfully restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

This stir fry pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or soba noodles for a filling meal. For a more casual spread, throw in some crunchy spring rolls or miso soup to round out the textures and flavors without stealing the spotlight from the garlic broccoli goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive vibe, serve this dish family-style in a large colorful bowl and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil. Or stuff the stir fry into warm pita pockets or wraps for a handheld treat perfect for lunches or casual dinners. The versatility of this Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe makes it a fun, adaptable star in your kitchen rotation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, giving you a quick reheat option for busy days when you want a nourishing meal without fuss.

Freezing

If you want to save the stir fry longer, it freezes nicely too. Just cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and it stays good for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a convenient, delicious meal anytime.

Reheating

When reheating, do it gently on the stovetop or microwave to avoid overcooking the broccoli. A splash of water or broth helps revive the sauce’s silky texture. Stir occasionally to heat evenly and keep the flavors fresh and vibrant, just like when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe, just adjust cooking time slightly to avoid over-softening. Adding it frozen directly to the pan with the broth helps it steam perfectly.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes! The dish is naturally vegan and gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce. It’s a plant-based, healthy option everyone can enjoy.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. Feel free to toss in sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and crunch. Just add them at the same time as the broccoli and adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I substitute for chickpeas?

If you want more protein variety, try using tofu cubes, edamame, or even cooked lentils. They soak up the sauce just as beautifully and keep it nutritious and filling.

Is the maple syrup necessary in the sauce?

The maple syrup adds a lovely balance to the tangy vinegar and salty soy sauce. If you prefer, you can substitute with honey, agave syrup, or a pinch of sugar, but the subtle sweetness really lifts this stir fry.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is truly one of those dishes that shines with simplicity and soul. It’s quick enough for a busy day but full of vibrant colors, textures, and layers of flavor to satisfy both your taste buds and your health goals. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved staple on your table – trust me, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug with every bite!

Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics to Build Flavor