Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta

🍝 Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta

🕒 Prep Time: 10 mins

🍳 Cook Time: 30 mins

🍽 Servings: 4

📝 Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work best)

• Salt (for pasta water)

For the Sausage & Veggies:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 lb (450g) chicken sausage (sliced into rounds or half-moons)

• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons

• 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)

• 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

• 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth (for deglazing)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (for brightness)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.

• Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Sausages

• While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Add sliced chicken sausages and cook 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove to a plate and set aside.

3. Sauté the Veggies

• In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the onion (if using) for 2 minutes.

• Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

• Stir in the zucchini and sauté for 4–5 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

• Add tomatoes and cook another 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.

4. Combine and Simmer

• Return the sausages to the skillet.

• Add oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.

• If using, deglaze the pan with white wine or chicken broth and let it reduce for 1–2 minutes.

• Toss in the cooked pasta and 1/4 cup reserved pasta water. Stir to coat everything evenly.

• Simmer for a minute or two, adding more pasta water if it seems dry.

5. Finish and Serve

• Stir in Parmesan (if using), lemon juice, and fresh herbs.

• Taste and adjust seasoning.

• Serve warm with extra cheese and fresh herbs on top.

🥗 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple green salad and crusty bread.

• Add a glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for a full meal.

🥡 Storage Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

• Reheat: Microwave or reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.

• Freezer: Best eaten fresh, but you can freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost before reheating.

Would you like a printable version or meal prep adaptation?