Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a simple yet flavorful meal. The combination of juicy chicken sausages, fresh zucchini, and sweet cherry tomatoes creates a balanced, comforting dish. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility — it’s a one-pot meal that can be customized to suit your tastes. Plus, it requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just yourself, this dish is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Sausages:

• 4 chicken sausages

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces pasta (your choice of shape)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 onion, diced

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 2 zucchinis, sliced

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Sausages

In a bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken sausages in the mixture until well coated. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken Sausages

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken sausages and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the sliced zucchinis and cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Return the chicken sausages to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Add the cooked pasta, chicken broth, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Simmer and Serve

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Once the dish is heated through and flavorful, remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

This recipe is easily adaptable. Try these variations to make it your own:

• Swap the chicken sausages for turkey sausages.

• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.

• Experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.

• Use different types of pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.

• Experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to suit your flavor preferences.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave or heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If needed, add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken sausages with turkey sausages.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, or swap the paprika for smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to add some heat.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to include additional vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to customize the dish to your liking.

Can I freeze this dish?

While this dish can be frozen, the pasta may become soft upon reheating. If you plan to freeze it, consider storing the sausages and sauce separately from the pasta.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove.

Is this dish dairy-free?

This dish is dairy-free unless you add Parmesan cheese on top. You can skip the cheese for a completely dairy-free meal.

What can I serve this dish with?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta is a flavorful, simple one-pot dinner that’s perfect for busy nights. It’s packed with savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta, making it a well-rounded meal. Plus, it’s easily customizable to fit your tastes and dietary needs. Give this recipe a try for an easy, satisfying dinner your whole family will love!