This hearty dish features juicy chicken sausages mixed with fresh zucchini, bright tomatoes, and pasta. It’s packed with flavor and colors that make dinner feel special!
Honestly, the best part is how fast it comes together. I love tossing everything into one pot—less mess means more time for me to enjoy! Plus, who can resist that delicious smell? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Penne or rigatoni works perfectly here, offering a nice shape to hold the sauce. If those aren’t available, feel free to substitute with fusilli or farfalle—both add a fun twist to this dish!
Chicken Sausages: They bring great flavor! If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey sausages are a good substitute. Vegetarian or vegan alternatives can include plant-based sausage or even marinated tofu for a protein boost.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a lovely crunch. If it’s out of season, you can swap it with yellow squash or bell peppers for a different texture and color.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy! You can use regular tomatoes chopped into chunks, but consider adding a pinch of sugar to replicate the sweetness if needed.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty kick. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan alternative!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken Sausages?
Cooking chicken sausages just right enhances their flavor and texture. Follow these simple steps to get them browned and delicious:
- Use medium heat to allow them to brown evenly without burning.
- Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re golden, turning occasionally for consistent cooking.
- Make sure they’re cooked through—slicing them helps check if they’re no longer pink inside.
- Set them aside after cooking, so they don’t overcook and dry out when mixed back in.
How to Make Chicken Sausages With Zucchini, Tomatoes, And Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dish:
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 1 pound chicken sausages, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. Enjoy the quick process that brings tasty chicken sausages, fresh vegetables, and pasta together in one satisfying dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, meaning it’s still firm when bitten. After cooking, drain the pasta but save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water and set it aside.
2. Cooking the Sausages:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausages and cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the sausages from the skillet and place them on a plate to keep warm.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Now, toss in the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until it smells wonderful. Next, add the sliced zucchini and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle in the dried Italian herbs, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything and sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and vibrant.
4. Combining Everything:
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Return the cooked chicken sausages to the skillet and mix them with the veggies. If the mixture looks a little dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to moisten it. Then, add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together until it’s well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if you like.
5. Serving Up:
Your tasty dish is ready to be served! Scoop it into bowls or onto plates, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delightful Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use turkey, pork, or even plant-based sausages. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of sausage you choose; cook until they reach the appropriate internal temperature.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little olive oil or water to help prevent sticking.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan! Substitute the chicken sausages with vegan sausages, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. Ensure that your pasta is also egg-free!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli would be delicious additions. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is cooked through but still retains some crunch.
