Chicken sausages with zucchini, tomatoes, and pasta make for a colorful, tasty dish that’s both simple and satisfying. The juicy chicken sausages add a mild, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the fresh zucchini and sweet, slightly tangy tomatoes. Tossed with your favorite pasta, this meal feels like a cozy, home-cooked dinner that comes together easily on any weeknight.
I love how this recipe lets the veggies really shine alongside the sausages. The zucchini keeps things light and fresh, and the tomatoes break down to make a subtle, natural sauce that ties everything together. Sometimes I like to sprinkle a little Parmesan on top or add some fresh basil for an extra kick of flavor—it’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
When I serve this meal, I usually keep things simple. A big green salad or some crusty bread on the side is all you need to round out the plate. It’s the kind of dish that’s comforting without being heavy, and it’s always popular with friends and family, especially those who want something tasty but not too complicated.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Sausages: These add protein and flavor without being too heavy. You can swap them for turkey or vegetarian sausages if you prefer. For extra spice, try Italian-style chicken sausages.
Zucchini: This veggie keeps the dish light and adds a nice texture. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash or even thinly sliced bell peppers work well.
Cherry Tomatoes: They become juicy and slightly sweet when cooked. If cherry tomatoes are out of season, use diced canned tomatoes to keep that tangy touch.
Pasta: Penne holds the sauce and veggies nicely, but any short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli will work. For gluten-free, choose your preferred GF pasta.
Parmesan Cheese & Herbs: Parmesan gives a salty, savory finish. Use Pecorino Romano if you want a sharper taste. Fresh basil or parsley brighten the dish, but dried herbs can be a substitute in a pinch.
How Do I Cook Sausages and Vegetables Perfectly Together?
Cooking sausages and veggies evenly ensures great flavor and texture. Here’s my approach:
- Start by browning the sausages first in a hot pan with oil. This locks in juices and adds color.
- Remove the sausages and cook the garlic briefly—just until fragrant—to avoid burning.
- Add zucchini next and cook until it softens and browns a bit, about 4-5 minutes. Stirring occasionally helps even cooking.
- Then toss in the tomatoes last. They cook quickly and release juices that form a natural sauce.
- Return sausages to the pan to warm through and combine flavors before adding pasta.
This step-by-step method keeps everything tender and flavorful without turning the veggies mushy or sausages dry.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling the pasta evenly without crowding.
- Large skillet – great for browning the chicken sausages and sautéing the veggies all in one pan.
- Colander – helps you drain pasta quickly and easily.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – ideal for stirring the ingredients gently without scratching your skillet.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – makes slicing sausages, zucchini, and tomatoes safe and simple.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken sausages for spicy Italian or chorizo for a bolder, smoky twist.
- Stir in baby spinach or kale near the end for a boost of greens and nutrients.
- Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to brighten the sauce and add depth.
- Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangy finish.
Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken sausages, sliced into 1-inch rounds
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 15 minutes cooking the pasta, sausages, and veggies.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook following the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but with a slight bite). Drain the pasta, but save half a cup of the pasta water for later use. Set the pasta aside.
2. Brown the Sausages:
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausages and cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through — about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausages from the pan and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you smell that lovely aroma. Add the sliced zucchini and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring every now and then until the zucchini is soft and starting to brown. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and if you like a bit of heat, some crushed red pepper flakes.
4. Combine Everything:
Put the chicken sausages back into the skillet with the veggies and toss everything together. Add your cooked pasta and gently stir to combine. If it feels a bit dry, pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
5. Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley over the pasta. Give it a gentle stir to mix. Taste and add salt or pepper if needed. Serve warm, and if you want, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Sausages?
Yes, just make sure they’re fully thawed before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. This helps them cook evenly and safely.
Can I Substitute the Pasta?
Absolutely! Any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle works well. For gluten-free options, just pick your favorite GF pasta and cook it according to package instructions.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the pasta feels dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
You can! Replace the chicken sausages with plant-based sausages or add more veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers to keep it hearty and flavorful.
