Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta

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Introduction

This Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta recipe brings together simple ingredients for a well-balanced and delicious meal. The combination of juicy chicken sausages, tender zucchini, and sweet cherry tomatoes creates a comforting yet fresh dish. Tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and seasoned with fragrant garlic and oregano, every bite is packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil for the perfect finishing touch!

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken sausages
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • Fresh basil, for garnish
  • Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken sausages and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and slice into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the sliced zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
  4. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and dried oregano to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes are softened and juicy.
  5. Return the sliced chicken sausages to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well mixed and heated through.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Helpful Tips

  1. Cook the Pasta Al Dente – Since the pasta will be tossed with the warm sausage and vegetable mixture, cooking it al dente prevents it from becoming too soft. Reserve a bit of pasta water before draining in case you need to loosen the sauce.
  2. Brown the Sausages for Maximum Flavor – Let the sausages sear properly in the skillet before slicing. This caramelization enhances their flavor and gives the dish a richer taste.
  3. Don’t Overcook the Vegetables – Zucchini and cherry tomatoes cook quickly, so sauté them just until they’re tender but still slightly firm. This keeps them from becoming mushy and preserves their fresh taste.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Pair with Crusty Bread – Serve this pasta alongside a slice of warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra juices from the dish. The combination makes for a satisfying and complete meal.
  2. Add a Fresh Side Salad – A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the dish’s richness and adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta. A mix of arugula, spinach, or romaine works well.
  3. Top with Extra Parmesan and Basil – A final sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and torn basil leaves just before serving enhances the flavors and adds a fresh, aromatic touch.

Substitutions and Variations

  1. Swap the Chicken Sausages – Try using turkey or plant-based sausages for a leaner or vegetarian-friendly option. Italian-style chicken sausages will add a more robust, herby flavor.
  2. Use Different Pasta Shapes – While penne or fusilli work well, you can experiment with rigatoni, farfalle, or even whole wheat pasta for added fiber and texture.
  3. Boost the Flavor with a Sauce – If you want a saucier dish, add a splash of marinara, pesto, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze at the end for a flavorful twist.

Conservation and Storage

  1. Refrigerating Leftovers Properly – Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. This helps maintain freshness and prevents bacterial growth. Properly stored, it will last for up to 3-4 days. If the pasta absorbs too much sauce in the fridge, you can refresh it with a splash of olive oil or a little water when reheating.

  2. Freezing for Longer Storage – While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months if needed. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop with a bit of water or broth to restore moisture. Note that zucchini can become softer after freezing, so slightly undercook it if planning to freeze portions.

  3. Reheating Without Drying Out – When reheating leftovers, the key is to prevent the pasta from becoming dry. If using a microwave, add a tablespoon of water before reheating in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. For stovetop reheating, warm the pasta in a pan over medium heat with a splash of olive oil or broth, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid overcooking to keep the texture intact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overcooking the Pasta – Cooking pasta past the al dente stage makes it too soft, and when reheated, it can become mushy. Since the pasta will be tossed with warm ingredients, slightly undercooking it ensures it retains a firm texture even after combining with the sauce. Always follow the package instructions but check for doneness a minute earlier than recommended.

  2. Not Browning the Sausages Properly – A common mistake is rushing the sausage cooking process. Cooking the sausages over medium heat and letting them brown before slicing locks in the juices and enhances their flavor. If you slice them too soon, they may lose moisture and become dry. Give them time to develop a nice golden sear before cutting them into bite-sized pieces.

  3. Skipping the Seasoning Adjustment – The balance of flavors is crucial in a simple dish like this. If the pasta tastes bland, it may need a little extra salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil can also elevate the final taste. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure the best flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? – Yes! Simply substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety, such as brown rice, quinoa, or chickpea pasta. Keep in mind that gluten-free pasta can cook faster or become softer when reheated, so check for doneness a minute or two earlier than usual.

  2. What other vegetables can I use? – If you want to mix things up, try adding bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus. These veggies complement the flavors well and add extra color and nutrients. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time depending on how soft or crisp you like them.

  3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? – You can prepare this dish ahead, but for the best texture, store the pasta separately from the sausage and vegetables. When ready to serve, reheat everything together on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil or broth to keep the dish fresh and flavorful.

  4. What’s the best type of sausage to use? – This recipe works well with pre-cooked or raw chicken sausages. If using raw sausages, cook them thoroughly before slicing. For extra flavor, opt for Italian-style chicken sausage, which adds herbs and spices to enhance the dish. If you prefer a little heat, spicy chicken sausage is a great option.

Conclusion

This Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta recipe is a perfect balance of hearty protein, fresh vegetables, and comforting pasta, making it an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying meal. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, it’s a dish that comes together effortlessly while still feeling special.

Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a dish that can be easily customized, this recipe offers endless possibilities. By following the tips for proper storage, reheating, and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll always have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.

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Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
Print Recipe

Description

This Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta recipe brings together simple ingredients for a well-balanced and delicious meal. The combination of juicy chicken sausages, tender zucchini, and sweet cherry tomatoes creates a comforting yet fresh dish. Tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and seasoned with fragrant garlic and oregano, every bite is packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil for the perfect finishing touch!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 chicken sausages
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • Fresh basil, for garnish
  • Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken sausages and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and slice into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the sliced zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
  4. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and dried oregano to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes are softened and juicy.
  5. Return the sliced chicken sausages to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well mixed and heated through.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • Use Quality Sausages – Italian-style or garlic herb chicken sausages add the best flavor. Brown them well for extra depth.
  • Cook Pasta Al Dente – Slightly undercook the pasta since it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
  • Don’t Overcook Veggies – Sauté zucchini until just tender to keep a slight bite and prevent mushiness.
  • Enhance the Sauce – Add a splash of pasta water or a drizzle of olive oil for a silkier texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion (1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: chicken sausage pasta, zucchini and pasta, healthy pasta recipe, quick dinner idea, Mediterranean pasta

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