Description
A quick and flavorful chicken sausage pasta dish featuring sautéed zucchini, fresh cherry tomatoes, and a savory herb sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe combines tender chicken sausages with vibrant vegetables and pasta in a light broth-based sauce, finished with optional Parmesan and fresh herbs for added richness.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 4 chicken sausages, sliced into rounds
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Herbs and Spices
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water, and set the pasta aside.
- Brown the Chicken Sausages: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausages and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Zucchini and Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the zucchini slices and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the halved tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften and start releasing their juices.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta back to the skillet. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Return Sausages to Skillet: Add the browned chicken sausages back into the skillet and mix with the pasta and vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Season and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Serve garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken sausages with turkey or pork sausages if preferred.
- For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Reserve pasta water carefully as it helps to bind and loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Vegetarian option: omit the sausages and add extra vegetables or plant-based protein.
- Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs add flavor but can be omitted for a dairy-free version.
