This easy chicken sausage pasta is a tasty blend of flavors with juicy chicken sausage, fresh zucchini, and vibrant tomatoes. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
I love how quick this dish is to whip up. Just cook the pasta, toss in the veggies and sausage, and you’re good to go. Perfect for busy nights! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using rigatoni or penne for their great texture, but you could also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed. Just adjust the cooking time as per the package instructions for perfect results.
Chicken Sausage: Choose fully cooked chicken sausage for ease. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too. Vegetarian sausage is a great plant-based alternative if you’re avoiding meat!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds nice crunch and flavor. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash is a good substitute. You could even use bell peppers for a different flavor twist!
Cherry Tomatoes: I love the sweetness of cherry tomatoes as they burst when cooked. If they’re out of season, diced canned tomatoes could work in a pinch, just be sure to drain them first.
How Do I Get My Sausage Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken sausage just right makes all the difference. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium heat to allow it to brown properly without burning.
- Slice the sausage to increase surface area for a nice crispy texture.
- Keep stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking all over.
- Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
These tips help you avoid dry sausage and keep it juicy and tasty in your dish!
Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta Dish:
- 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken sausage pasta will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes boiling the pasta and another 20 minutes cooking the sausage, zucchini, and tomatoes. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside for now.
2. Brown the Sausage:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage. Cook it while stirring occasionally until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove it from the skillet and keep it warm on the side.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Then toss in the minced garlic and the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell that garlicky goodness! Next, add the sliced zucchini, cooking for about 4-5 minutes until it’s just tender. After that, mix in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and blister.
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Gently toss everything together until well combined so each piece is coated in those yummy flavors.
5. Finish It Off:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet, stirring gently to allow it to melt into the pasta and coat all the ingredients nicely. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy how wonderful it smells!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Dish out your tasty pasta into bowls, and finish by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley and a little extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Dig in and enjoy a warm bowl of this delightful, hearty chicken sausage pasta!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Any Type of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni and penne work great, feel free to use any pasta shape you enjoy or have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to ensure it’s cooked perfectly!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Sausage?
If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey sausage is a great option for a leaner choice. For a vegetarian or vegan version, try using plant-based sausages or even chickpeas for added protein and texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute with vegetables you love, such as bell peppers, spinach, or kale. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable’s texture so everything is cooked perfectly.
