Description
Ever wondered how to whip up a dinner that’s hearty, healthy, and bursting with flavor in under 30 minutes? Imagine juicy chicken sausages, tender zucchini, sweet tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta all tossed together in a light, savory sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Sausages
- Chicken Sausages (4): Juicy and flavorful, these add protein and a savory kick. Choose pre-cooked or raw, depending on what’s available.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the spices stick to the sausages and adds richness.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a mild garlic taste without overpowering.
- Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): Brings an Italian herb vibe.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
For the Pasta and Veggies
- Pasta (8 ounces, any shape): Pick your favorite—penne, fusilli, or spaghetti all work great.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing the veggies, adding a smooth flavor.
- Onion (1, diced): Adds a sweet, savory base.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings bold, aromatic flavor.
- Zucchinis (2, sliced): Adds a tender, mild veggie crunch.
- Cherry Tomatoes (2 cups, halved): Brings juicy sweetness and bright color.
- Chicken Broth (1 cup): Creates a light, flavorful sauce.
- Dried Basil (1 teaspoon): Adds a classic Italian herb taste.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Adjusts the seasoning to your liking.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (for serving): Adds a nutty, cheesy finish.
Substitutions and Variations
- Sausages: Swap chicken sausages for turkey, pork, or plant-based sausages for a vegetarian option.
- Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
- Veggies: Try bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach instead of or with zucchini and tomatoes.
- Broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or water with a splash of white wine for extra flavor.
- Cheese: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano, feta, or skip it for a dairy-free dish.
- Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can replace dried basil for a brighter taste.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken Sausages
- In a medium bowl, mix 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add 4 chicken sausages and toss to coat evenly. Set aside to marinate while you prep other ingredients.
Tip: If using raw sausages, this marinade adds extra flavor. Pre-cooked sausages will still soak up the spices for a tasty boost.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually 8–10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and set aside. Drizzle with a tiny bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Tip: Save a cup of pasta water in case you need to thin out the sauce later.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken Sausages
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken sausages and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (if using raw sausages, ensure they reach 165°F internally).
- Remove the sausages from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Tip: Slice the sausages into rounds after cooking for easier eating and a prettier dish.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons olive oil and heat over medium heat.
- Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add 2 sliced zucchinis and 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender but not mushy.
Tip: Don’t overcook the zucchini—it should be tender but still have a slight bite.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Slice the cooked sausages (if not already sliced) and return them to the skillet with the veggies.
- Add the cooked pasta, 1 cup chicken broth, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Stir gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Tip: If the dish looks dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water or extra broth.
Step 6: Simmer and Serve
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or basil if needed.
- Remove from heat and serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tip: For extra flavor, let the dish sit for a minute before serving to soak up the sauce