Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta Recipe

Name: Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz Italian-style chicken sausages; 1 cup diced onion; 4 cups chicken broth; 8 oz Radiatore pasta; 2 cups chopped zucchini; 1 cup halved grape tomatoes; 2 tbsp lemon juice; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Published: July 6, 2025

by kaeli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with zucchini and tomatoes, this dish offers a healthy dose of vegetables.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the flavors of chicken sausages and pasta, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.
Flavorful Twist: The addition of lemon juice and fresh basil elevates this dish beyond ordinary pasta recipes.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools for the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta and combining all ingredients evenly.
Sharp knife: Helps in chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

Ingredients

For the Base

1 tsp olive oil
12 oz Italian-style chicken sausages, sliced
1 cup diced onion
½ tsp salt
2 tsp minced garlic
¼ tsp crushed red pepper (optional)

For the Pasta

4 cups chicken broth
8 oz Radiatore pasta (or any small pasta)

For the Vegetables

2 cups chopped zucchini
1 cup halved grape tomatoes

For Finishing Touches

2 tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
⅓ cup chopped fresh basil

How to Make Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausages

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausages and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same pot, add the diced onion, salt, and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is softened, about 3-4 minutes. If using crushed red pepper, add it now and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Boil the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes) until al dente.

Step 4: Add Zucchini

Once the pasta is nearly cooked, add the chopped zucchini. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until tender.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Stir in lemon juice, half of the Parmesan cheese, grape tomatoes, and cooked chicken sausages. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and stir in chopped basil. Garnish with remaining Parmesan cheese before serving.

This Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta Recipe combines convenience with robust flavors that everyone will love! Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta Recipe

Serving Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few simple touches. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate this delicious dish.

Pair with Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes create a refreshing balance to the savory flavors of the dish.

Add a Touch of Citrus

Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing that brightens the overall meal.
Citrus Dressing: A citrus dressing on your salad can enhance the zestiness of your Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta.

Enhance with Bread

Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soft pasta.
Herbed Focaccia: This flavorful bread can soak up any leftover sauce, making it a perfect companion for this recipe.

Garnish Creatively

Fresh Basil Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves not only looks appealing but also adds an aromatic touch.
Parmesan Shavings: Top each serving with shavings of Parmesan cheese for added richness.

How to Perfect Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta Recipe

To ensure your Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta is perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use Quality Sausages: Choose high-quality chicken sausages for better flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Follow package instructions closely to achieve al dente pasta, which holds its shape better in the dish.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! You may want to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables: Feel free to swap zucchini for other seasonal veggies like bell peppers or asparagus for variety.
Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like feta or goat cheese as alternatives to Parmesan for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options:

Garlic Roasted Broccoli: This easy-to-make side is full of flavor and adds nutritious greens to your plate.
Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked spinach seasoned with garlic pairs well without overpowering the main dish.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers and parsley offers a healthy grain option.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These sweet, caramelized bites contrast nicely against savory sausage flavors.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus adds elegance and crunch, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing provides a classic pairing that most enjoy.
Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread makes for a trendy side that complements this hearty meal well.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and color to round out your dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta Recipe a success, avoid these common pitfalls.

Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your dish can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you cook.
Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can result in mushiness. Follow the package instructions for al dente texture to keep it firm.
Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale vegetables or old sausages can compromise flavor. Always opt for fresh produce and quality sausages for the best results.
Ignoring ingredient prep: Not preparing ingredients in advance can slow down cooking time. Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth process.
Neglecting garnishes: Skipping garnishes like basil or Parmesan cheese can make your dish less visually appealing. A little greenery or cheese on top enhances presentation and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the dish to cool before sealing it to prevent condensation.

Freezing Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta Recipe

Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Divide into individual portions for easy reheating later.

Reheating Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm throughout.
Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta works best for Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta Recipe?

You can use any small pasta shape, but Radiatore works particularly well due to its ability to hold sauce.

Can I use other types of sausages in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken sausages with turkey, pork, or even plant-based alternatives for different flavors.

How do I store leftovers of Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta Recipe?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I add more vegetables to Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta Recipe?

Definitely! You can include bell peppers, spinach, or even carrots based on your preferences.

Is this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily, making it great for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that makes weeknight dinners exciting. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to seasonal vegetables or personal preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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