This dish combines tasty chicken sausages with light zucchini pasta for a quick and healthy meal. It’s colorful, easy to make, and oh-so-satisfying!
I love how the zucchini adds a fun twist and sneaks in some veggies! Cooking it all in one pan means less mess and more time to enjoy dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Sausages: These are the star of the dish! I prefer pre-cooked sausages for the ease, but raw ones will work too. If chicken isn’t your thing, turkey or vegetable sausages can be great alternatives.
Zucchini: Zucchini adds a light, fresh flavor. Spiralizing them makes for a fun “pasta.” If zucchini is not available, butternut squash or yellow squash can serve as a good substitution.
Pasta: I used rotini, but you can swap it for other short pastas like penne or fusilli. If you’re going gluten-free, there are excellent gluten-free pasta choices available now.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add a nice sweetness. If you can’t find them, diced canned tomatoes in juice can be a good substitute. Just drain them to reduce excess moisture.
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Zucchini Without Making It Soggy?
The key to perfect zucchini is to avoid overcooking! Zucchini cooks quickly, so it’s best to sauté it just until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the zucchini.
- Avoid crowding the pan, as this can trap moisture. If your skillet is small, cook in batches.
- Keep an eye on the color; it should be vibrant and still slightly crisp.
This way, your zucchini will maintain its shape and add a nice crunch to the dish!
Easy Chicken Sausages with Zucchini Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz chicken sausages (pre-cooked or raw, sliced into 1-inch pieces)
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced or spiralized
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy and delicious dish takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and another 10 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful meal any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta but be sure to save 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
2. Sauté the Chicken Sausages:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausages to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want them to be beautifully browned and heated through.
3. Add Garlic & Vegetables:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, stir in the chopped zucchini and cherry tomatoes. Cook everything together for around 4-5 minutes or until the zucchini is just tender and the tomatoes are starting to soften.
4. Combine Pasta & Season:
Now it’s time to add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together gently. If the mixture seems a bit dry, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until everything is saucy and well-coated. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a kick.
5. Finish & Serve:
Stir in the fresh parsley and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Give it all one last good mix! Remove the skillet from heat and serve immediately. Top each plate with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
This recipe offers a quick, wholesome meal full of flavor—enjoy your delightful chicken sausages with zucchini pasta!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Sausages with Zucchini Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken sausages, you can easily substitute turkey, pork, or even plant-based sausages if you prefer a vegetarian option. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly if using raw sausages.
What Can I Use Instead of Zucchini?
If zucchini isn’t available or you want to try something different, consider using yellow squash, bell peppers, or even cauliflower. Each will add a unique flavor and texture to the dish!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the rotini pasta with a gluten-free pasta option like brown rice or chickpea pasta. The cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to check package instructions.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the pasta moist!
