Dinner

Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas and Maple Soy Sauce Recipe

ByHarper Ellington February 2, 2026February 2, 2026

Introduction

This garlic broccoli stir fry is a deliciously savory and nutritious dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Packed with fragrant garlic, warming spices, and tender broccoli, it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Serve it over your favorite rice for a complete meal.

A bowl filled at the bottom with a layer of fluffy white rice sprinkled with small green herbs, topped with a layer of cooked broccoli florets and chickpeas coated in a dark brown glossy sauce, giving a shiny texture. The broccoli is bright green with some light char marks, and the chickpeas are golden brown. There is a wooden spoon resting in the bowl, slightly lifting some of the dish. Everything is set on a white marbled surface with a blurred bowl in the background showing more of the same dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 and 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 of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
Cooked rice of choice, for serving
1/2 cup water
3 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar or balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons maple syrup or other sweetener
1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

Step 1: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced ginger, minced garlic, and all spices: onion powder, paprika, smoked paprika, black pepper, sea salt, and cayenne pepper. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant and the onion softens.
Step 2: Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender but still crisp, about 10 minutes.
Step 3: While the broccoli cooks, prepare the sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the water, soy sauce, rice or balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and cornstarch until smooth.
Step 4: Pour the sauce mixture into the pan with the broccoli. Add the rinsed and drained chickpeas and stir to combine.
Step 5: Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer until the sauce thickens, cooking for a few more minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 6: Taste the stir fry and adjust seasoning if needed by adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper according to your preference.
Step 7: Serve the garlic broccoli stir fry on its own or over cooked rice. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Variations

Use avocado or sunflower oil for a neutral flavor, or toasted sesame oil for a nutty twist.
Add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
For added protein, substitute chickpeas with tofu or tempeh.
If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or add a splash of chili garlic sauce.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This stir fry does not freeze well due to the broccoli’s texture.