If you’ve been searching for a vibrant, cozy meal that brings together tender chicken sausages, fresh zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta, look no further. This Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day, delivering a delightful balance of savory flavors and wholesome ingredients all in under 30 minutes. It’s straightforward, colorful, and loaded with fresh tastes that’ll make your taste buds sing and your kitchen smell irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients make the best dishes, and this recipe is no exception. Each component plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrancy that transform a quick pasta meal into something truly special.
- Olive oil (1 tsp): Provides a rich base for sautéing and adds a subtle fruity note.
- Italian-style chicken sausages (12 oz, sliced): The star protein packed with herbs and spices to infuse the entire dish.
- Diced onion (1 cup): Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- Minced garlic (2 tsp): Brings aromatic warmth and a slight pungency.
- Crushed red pepper (¼ tsp, optional): A gentle kick to brighten the palate.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): The cooking liquid that keeps pasta moist and infuses savory richness.
- Radiatore pasta (8 oz, or any small pasta): Perfect shape to catch sauce and pockets of flavor in every bite.
- Chopped zucchini (2 cups): Adds freshness, texture, and a pleasant mild sweetness.
- Lemon juice (2 tbsp): A splash of brightness that lifts all the ingredients.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, divided): Offers creamy, salty notes and a satisfying finish.
- Halved grape tomatoes (1 cup): Juicy bursts of acidity and color to complement the dish.
- Chopped fresh basil (â…“ cup): A fragrant and herbaceous topper that adds freshness right before serving.
How to Make Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook Sausages
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the sliced chicken sausages and diced onion, cooking them until the sausages develop a lovely golden brown color and the onions turn tender and slightly translucent. This step builds the foundation of flavor, marrying the savory meatiness with a subtle sweetness from the onions.
Step 2: Add Flavors
Next, sprinkle in the salt, crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat, and the minced garlic. Stir everything together and let the garlic cook until you can smell its rich aroma, about one minute. Pour in the chicken broth and give the pan a good scrape to loosen any browned bits stuck to the bottom—this adds fantastic depth to your sauce. Bring the whole mixture to a boil, preparing it for the pasta to absorb.
Step 3: Cook Pasta
Now, add your uncooked Radiatore pasta straight into the boiling broth mixture. Give it a stir to prevent sticking and cook for around 10 minutes. The pasta will soak up the broth progressively, becoming almost tender and soaking in all that savory flavor from the sausage and broth.
Step 4: Add Zucchini
Once the pasta reaches that near-tender stage, stir in the chopped zucchini. Let everything simmer together for about 3 minutes until the zucchini softens but still retains a bit of bite, and most of the broth has been absorbed. This keeps the dish from becoming soupy while ensuring each bite bursts with fresh vegetable goodness.
Step 5: Finish Dish
Finally, stir in the lemon juice, 3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, and the halved grape tomatoes. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh basil along with the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. This finishing touch adds brightness, creaminess, and a fresh herbal note that makes the dish irresistible and ready to serve.
How to Serve Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta Recipe, consider adding a few extra fresh basil leaves or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil for that glossy finish. A scattering of toasted pine nuts or a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper also adds delightful texture and a mild spice that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish stands superbly on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, try serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a zingy vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread. Both options help balance the richness of the sausage and cheese while adding a satisfying crunch or refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more special occasion, serve this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta Recipe in colorful shallow bowls topped with decorative basil sprigs. You might also plate it atop a bed of arugula or add a sprinkle of edible flowers for a restaurant-worthy presentation that feels both casual and sophisticated.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Because the pasta soaks up the sauce, adding a splash of broth or water when reheating helps bring back its comforting, saucy consistency without drying out the dish.
Freezing
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Use a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. To prevent sogginess, consider undercooking the pasta slightly next time you make it before freezing, as it will continue to soften upon reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat with a small amount of water or broth. Stir often to ensure the sausage, zucchini, and pasta rewarm evenly and stay moist. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each until hot throughout.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Radiatore pasta is recommended for its shape that catches the sauce, any small pasta like penne, fusilli, or rotini will work perfectly and hold the flavors well.
What can I substitute for chicken sausages?
If you prefer a different protein, pork or turkey sausages are great alternatives. For a vegetarian twist, try using plant-based sausages or hearty vegetables like mushrooms to replace the meat entirely.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe includes optional crushed red pepper flakes, so you can control the heat level to your preference. Simply omit the red pepper if you prefer a mild, comforting dish.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare most of it ahead, especially cooking the sausage and onions, then combining everything right before serving. Just be mindful of reheating techniques to maintain the best texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
Fresh basil adds a lovely herbal brightness, but if you don’t have it on hand, dried basil or fresh parsley can be used as substitutes. Add them towards the end of cooking or as a garnish for the best flavor impact.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta Recipe brings together such a wonderful harmony of flavors and textures that it’s bound to become a fast favorite in your recipe repertoire. It’s quick, straightforward, and bursting with freshness and comfort—making it perfect for dinner any night of the week. Give it a try, and I promise your family or friends will keep coming back for more warmth on a plate.
Print
Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This quick and flavorful recipe features Italian-style chicken sausages sautéed with onions, garlic, and a touch of crushed red pepper, simmered in chicken broth with Radiatore pasta, zucchini, and grape tomatoes. Finished with fresh lemon juice, grated Parmesan, and basil, this one-pan dish is perfect for a wholesome weeknight meal ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 12 oz Italian-style chicken sausages, sliced
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cups chopped zucchini
- 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
- â…“ cup chopped fresh basil
Liquids and Oils
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Dry and Seasonings
- 8 oz Radiatore pasta (or any small pasta)
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Instructions
- Cook Sausages and Onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausages and diced onion, cooking until the sausages are browned and the onion has softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Broth: Season the mixture with salt, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release all the flavorful browned bits, then bring the broth to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add the uncooked Radiatore pasta directly into the boiling broth. Stir frequently and cook for about 10 minutes until the pasta is mostly tender but still with a slight bite.
- Add Zucchini: Stir in the chopped zucchini and continue cooking for 3 additional minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed, creating a creamy sauce.
- Finish Dish: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon juice, 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese, and halved grape tomatoes. Garnish with the chopped fresh basil and the remaining Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- Using Radiatore or another small pasta shape helps the pasta hold sauce and cook evenly.
- For a spicier dish, increase crushed red pepper flakes to your taste.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out.
- Can substitute chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it a bit lighter or to fit dietary preferences.
- Adding fresh basil at the end gives a refreshing herbal aroma and flavor.
- If fresh zucchini isn’t available, frozen chopped zucchini can be used but may add extra moisture; adjust cooking time accordingly.
