Are you looking for a delicious, quick, and healthy dinner idea? Look no further than this easy-to-make Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta recipe! Packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. The combination of juicy chicken sausages, tender zucchini, and fresh tomatoes over pasta creates a satisfying meal that will please the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken sausages (preferably lean, with minimal fat)
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces of pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken Sausages: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken sausages and cook them for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside to cool slightly. Once cooled, slice the sausages into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the sliced zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes until the tomatoes are softened and the zucchini is tender.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken sausages to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if desired.
- Serve: Serve your Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Healthy and Lean: Using chicken sausages makes this dish a leaner alternative to traditional pork sausages. Paired with zucchini and tomatoes, this recipe is full of vitamins and nutrients.
- Quick and Easy: This meal can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or even meal prep for the week.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for even more flavor and nutrition.
- Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild and balanced, making it ideal for both kids and adults. The combination of pasta, sausage, and vegetables is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Health Benefits:
- Chicken Sausages: Lower in fat and calories compared to traditional sausages, chicken sausages provide a good source of lean protein.
- Zucchini: This versatile vegetable is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and fiber, which is great for digestion and maintaining healthy skin.
- Tomatoes: Full of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, tomatoes help fight inflammation and support heart health.
- Pasta: When paired with vegetables and lean protein, pasta provides a balanced source of carbohydrates, keeping you satisfied without overloading on calories.
Conclusion:
If you’re in the mood for a healthy, hearty, and easy dinner, Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta is the perfect choice. This dish offers a wonderful balance of flavors, nutrients, and textures that your whole family will love. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!
Serving and Storage Tips for Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta
Serving Tips:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: To elevate the dish, garnish your chicken sausage pasta with freshly chopped basil or parsley. This adds a burst of color and an extra layer of flavor.
- Pair with a Side Salad: A light, crisp side salad with a simple vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the savory sausage and pasta dish. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the pasta, making it a well-rounded meal.
- Add Grated Cheese: If you enjoy cheese, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top for a salty, savory finish. This will add an extra dimension of flavor.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: A warm slice of crusty bread or garlic bread on the side is a great way to mop up any leftover sauce, making your meal even more satisfying.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerating Leftovers:
- Let the dish cool to room temperature before storing it.
- Transfer any leftover chicken sausages with zucchini, tomatoes, and pasta to an airtight container. This can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing:
- This dish can be frozen if you have leftovers you’d like to save for later. Store the chicken sausage pasta in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
- When reheating, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before warming it up in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of olive oil or water to prevent it from drying out.
- Reheating:
- To reheat, simply warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. You can add a little extra olive oil or a splash of chicken broth to bring the pasta back to life.
- If reheating in the microwave, place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
By following these tips, you can enjoy Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta for multiple meals while preserving its flavors and freshness.
1. Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?
Yes, you can! While chicken sausages are lean and flavorful, you can substitute them with other types of sausage, such as turkey sausage, pork sausage, or even vegetarian sausage. Just keep in mind that different sausages may alter the flavor profile, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.
2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the regular pasta with a gluten-free pasta variety, such as rice pasta, quinoa pasta, or chickpea pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it an easy switch.
3. How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
This recipe is quite versatile, so feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables. Consider adding bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted eggplant. Just make sure to cook them along with the zucchini and tomatoes for optimal flavor and texture.
4. Can I prepare this meal in advance?
Yes, this dish can be prepped ahead of time. You can cook the pasta and vegetables in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, just sauté the sausage, then combine it with the pre-cooked pasta and vegetables. It’s a great option for meal prepping!
PrintChicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta Recipe
This Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish packed with fresh vegetables, juicy chicken sausages, and tender pasta. It’s quick to make, nutritious, and perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- 4 chicken sausages, sliced (Italian-flavored or your preferred type)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 pint (10 oz) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken Sausages:
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced chicken sausages and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the zucchini and sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
4. Combine Everything:
- Return the cooked chicken sausages to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to combine.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve:
- Divide the pasta among plates or bowls.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and basil, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Veggie Boost: Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Options: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or feta for a twist.
- Make Ahead: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or olive oil to refresh.