Welcome, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into a dish that combines the perfect harmony of flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal that impresses your guests, this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta will surely hit the spot. It’s packed with fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and wholesome goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get started on creating this delightful, easy-to-make recipe that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying!
Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about pasta dishes. They’re versatile, easy to prepare, and can be dressed up with a variety of ingredients to suit any palate. Our Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta is no exception. This dish takes a Mediterranean twist with the combination of Italian-style chicken sausages, fresh zucchini, and sweet grape tomatoes. The savory sausages bring a depth of flavor, while the lemon juice and basil add brightness, making each bite feel light and refreshing.
What makes this recipe truly special is how effortlessly it brings together simple ingredients to create a meal that’s not only flavorful but also visually appealing. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe will leave a lasting impression on your guests. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up that zucchini from your garden or a recent trip to the farmer’s market!
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta, you’ll need:
- 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)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz Radiatore pasta (or any small pasta)
- 2 cups chopped zucchini
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil
Feel free to swap out the Radiatore pasta for any small pasta you have on hand, like penne or rotini. You can also substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option or go completely vegetarian by using plant-based sausages.
How to Make Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta:
- 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 and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, salt, and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- If using, add the crushed red pepper and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- 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.
- Add the chopped zucchini and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until tender.
- Stir in the lemon juice, half of the Parmesan cheese, grape tomatoes, and the cooked chicken sausages.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes, until everything is heated through.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil.
- Garnish with the remaining Parmesan cheese before serving.
Helpful Tips
To make sure your dish turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Timing is key: Be careful not to overcook the zucchini, as it can become mushy. Keep an eye on it to maintain a slight crunch that adds texture to the dish.
- Use fresh basil: Fresh herbs like basil add an aromatic freshness that dried herbs can’t replicate. Chop the basil just before adding it to preserve its bright flavor.
- Substitute as needed: If you’re out of chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute. Just make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Cooking Tips
For an even more flavorful dish, you can sauté the sausages with a splash of white wine after browning them. This adds depth and complexity to the sauce. Additionally, using a cast iron skillet to brown the sausages will give them a delicious crispy texture. To ensure your pasta is cooked perfectly, always cook it al dente, which means “to the tooth,” giving the pasta a slight bite.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a side of crusty garlic bread or a fresh, crisp salad for a complete meal. A glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the bright flavors of the tomatoes and lemon. For dessert, consider a light option like lemon sorbet or a fruit salad to keep the Mediterranean theme going.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. You get a healthy dose of protein from the chicken sausages, vitamins from the zucchini and tomatoes, and a moderate amount of carbohydrates from the pasta. It’s a balanced meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Potassium: 450mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Vitamin A: 8%
- Vitamin C: 20%
- Calcium: 15%
- Iron: 10%
Storage and Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, this dish stores beautifully.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen up the pasta and maintain its moisture.
For a twist on leftovers, you can even turn this dish into a baked pasta by adding more cheese on top and baking it at 375°F for about 15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken sausages with turkey or pork sausages. If you’re vegetarian, opt for plant-based sausages for a meatless option.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the Radiatore pasta with any type of small pasta you have on hand. Penne, rotini, or even bowtie pasta will work just as well.
Related Recipes
Looking for more delicious recipes? Check out these related dishes:
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and eating this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta as much as we do. It’s a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and freshness to your table without requiring hours in the kitchen. Don’t forget to share your creations with us in the comments, and feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make this recipe your own!
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Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes & Pasta Recipe
Description
Welcome, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into a dish that combines the perfect harmony of flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal that impresses your guests, this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta will surely hit the spot. It’s packed with fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and wholesome goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get started on creating this delightful, easy-to-make recipe that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying!
Ingredients
- 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)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz Radiatore pasta (or any small pasta)
- 2 cups chopped zucchini
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- 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 and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, salt, and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- If using, add the crushed red pepper and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- 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.
- Add the chopped zucchini and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until tender.
- Stir in the lemon juice, half of the Parmesan cheese, grape tomatoes, and the cooked chicken sausages.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes, until everything is heated through.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil.
- Garnish with the remaining Parmesan cheese before serving.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Timing is key: Be careful not to overcook the zucchini, as it can become mushy. Keep an eye on it to maintain a slight crunch that adds texture to the dish.
- Use fresh basil: Fresh herbs like basil add an aromatic freshness that dried herbs can’t replicate. Chop the basil just before adding it to preserve its bright flavor.
- Substitute as needed: If you’re out of chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute. Just make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
