Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta

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Introduction

This easy and hearty pasta dish combines savory chicken sausages with fresh zucchini, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic garlic for a well-balanced and satisfying meal. Tossed with tender pasta and finished with fresh basil and Parmesan, this dish is perfect for a comforting yet wholesome dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken sausages
  • 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 8 ounces penne or fusilli pasta
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken Sausages:
    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken sausages and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet, slice into rounds, and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Zucchini and Garlic:
    In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Toss in the zucchini slices and sauté for 3–4 minutes until they are tender but still slightly crisp.
  4. Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning:
    Stir in the cherry tomatoes along with the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their natural juices, creating a light sauce.
  5. Combine and Finish:
    Return the sliced chicken sausages to the skillet and mix well with the vegetables. Add the cooked pasta and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated and warmed through.
  6. Serve and Enjoy:
    Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful, well-balanced meal!

Variations

  1. Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, use spicy Italian chicken sausage instead of mild ones. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic to infuse the entire dish with a warm, subtle heat.
  2. Cheesy Upgrade: While Parmesan is a classic choice, you can try crumbled feta for a tangy contrast or shredded mozzarella for a creamy melt-in-your-mouth finish. Stir some into the pasta just before serving.
  3. Low-Carb Option: Swap the pasta for spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) or roasted spaghetti squash to create a lighter, lower-carb version of this dish while keeping all the delicious flavors intact.

Cooking Notes

  1. For a spicier kick, use spicy chicken sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  2. Swap penne or fusilli for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.
  3. For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  1. With Garlic Bread: Serve this dish with warm, crusty garlic bread or a side of cheesy garlic knots for an extra comforting and indulgent meal. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.
  2. Paired with a Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette, arugula, or mixed greens balances out the richness of the dish while adding a refreshing contrast. A simple Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella and basil would also be a great pairing.
  3. Wine Pairing: If you’re looking for a drink to complement this meal, a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works beautifully with the fresh tomatoes and herbs, while a medium-bodied red like Chianti enhances the savory sausage flavors.

Tips

  1. Boost the Sauce: If you prefer a saucier dish, add ½ cup of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to the skillet when combining the pasta and sausage. This helps the ingredients meld together and creates a light, flavorful coating.
  2. Herb Freshness Matters: While dried oregano adds great depth, fresh herbs like basil or parsley elevate the dish with a bright and aromatic finish. Add them at the end to preserve their freshness and flavor.
  3. Make It a One-Pan Dish: To save time on cleanup, after cooking the sausages, you can sauté the vegetables in the same pan and toss the pasta directly in to absorb all the delicious flavors. This method also helps bring everything together for a more cohesive dish.

Prep Time & Cooking Details

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Protein: 22g
  • Sodium: 720mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
    Yes! While chicken sausage adds a leaner protein option, you can use turkey sausage for a similar light taste or classic pork sausage for a richer, heartier flavor. If using raw sausage, ensure it is fully cooked before slicing.

  2. What type of pasta works best for this dish?
    Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni is ideal since it holds the sauce and vegetables well. However, you can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you have dietary preferences.

  3. How can I store and reheat leftovers?
    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to bring back moisture. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent overcooking the pasta.

  4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
    Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast or plant-based cheese. The dish will still be flavorful with the fresh basil and seasonings.

Conclusion

Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta is a simple yet satisfying meal that delivers fresh flavors, hearty textures, and wholesome ingredients in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe offers versatility and deliciousness in one bowl. Pair it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or a glass of wine for the perfect dining experience. Enjoy! 🍽️😊

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Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
Print Recipe

Description

This easy and hearty pasta dish combines savory chicken sausages with fresh zucchini, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic garlic for a well-balanced and satisfying meal. Tossed with tender pasta and finished with fresh basil and Parmesan, this dish is perfect for a comforting yet wholesome dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 chicken sausages
  • 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 8 ounces penne or fusilli pasta
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken Sausages:
    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken sausages and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet, slice into rounds, and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Zucchini and Garlic:
    In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Toss in the zucchini slices and sauté for 3–4 minutes until they are tender but still slightly crisp.
  4. Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning:
    Stir in the cherry tomatoes along with the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their natural juices, creating a light sauce.
  5. Combine and Finish:
    Return the sliced chicken sausages to the skillet and mix well with the vegetables. Add the cooked pasta and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated and warmed through.
  6. Serve and Enjoy:
    Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful, well-balanced meal!

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, use spicy chicken sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Swap penne or fusilli for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.
  • For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: chicken sausage pasta, zucchini pasta, healthy pasta dish, easy pasta recipe

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