Go Back

Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta

This chicken sausages with zucchini, tomatoes, and pasta combination delivers protein, fiber, and vibrant summer produce all in one skillet, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 12 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli recommended)
  • 1 lb chicken sausages (sliced; smoked or Italian-style)
  • 2 medium zucchini (sliced into half-moons)
  • 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes (halved) or 2 cups diced plum tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 0.5 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or white wine)
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano or 1 tbsp fresh chopped basil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook 1–2 minutes shy of package directions for al dente finish (reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining).
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausages and brown on both sides, 3–4 minutes.
  3. Remove sausages from the skillet and set aside. Lower heat to medium; add remaining olive oil, onions, and zucchini. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until zucchini is tender-crisp and onions are translucent.
  4. Add garlic and tomatoes; cook until tomatoes begin to blister, about 2–3 minutes. Sprinkle in oregano and red pepper flakes if using.
Cooking
  1. Deglaze skillet with chicken broth or white wine, scraping up brown bits. Stir in tomato paste if using, then return sausages to the pan.
  2. Drain pasta and add directly into the skillet. Toss everything gently for 1–2 minutes so pasta absorbs flavors.
  3. Finish with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. If sauce is too thick, add a splash more pasta water; if too thin, simmer briefly to reduce.
  4. Plate and serve warm with additional herbs or a squeeze of lemon.

Notes

For tangy flavor, substitute lemon with lime zest and juice. Use whole-grain pasta for extra fiber or chickpea pasta for gluten-free needs. Avoid overcooking zucchini to keep it tender-crisp.