This Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta is a cozy dish that mixes juicy chicken sausage with fresh zucchini and sweet tomatoes. It’s quick to make and bursting with flavor!
Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing! I often enjoy it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—because cheese makes everything better! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using penne or fusilli for this recipe since their shapes hold the sauce nicely. If you want a gluten-free option, feel free to use brown rice pasta or whole wheat pasta instead.
Chicken Sausage: You can choose mild or spicy chicken sausage based on your heat preference. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too. For a vegetarian twist, try using plant-based sausage!
Zucchini: This vegetable adds a lovely texture and flavor. If zucchini isn’t available, you can swap it out for yellow squash or bell peppers for a similar outcome.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness brightens the dish. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, diced regular tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes can be a nice alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds a creamy finish. Grated Pecorino Romano can also be used if you’re looking for a sharper flavor.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Sausage is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken sausage properly is key for great flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. This helps to evenly brown the sausage.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until brown and cooked through.
- Make sure to remove it from the skillet once cooked, as leaving it too long can make it tough.
Always cut the sausage into uniform pieces for even cooking. Enjoy your pasta knowing the sausage is cooked just right!
Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) chicken sausage, sliced (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken sausage pasta recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal option for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). When done, drain the pasta but save about 1/2 cup of the cooking water for later.
2. Sauté the Chicken Sausage:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until nicely browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet where you cooked the sausage, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the diced zucchini and cook for 4-5 minutes until they are slightly tender and vibrant in color.
4. Add Tomatoes and Flavor:
Next, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), and dried oregano. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and juicy.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and mix everything together. Now, add the drained pasta, tossing everything to combine well. If the mixture appears a bit dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce.
6. Season and Serve:
Season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if you wish.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy chicken sausage pasta!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitution and adds a nutty flavor along with more fiber. Just be sure to check the cooking time, as it may vary slightly from regular pasta.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Sausage?
No problem! You can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as turkey, pork, or even vegetarian sausage. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for different types of sausage to ensure it’s fully cooked.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times based on the vegetables you choose to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
