This one-pot chicken sausage pasta is a wholesome, flavor-packed meal that comes together with ease. Juicy Italian-style chicken sausages are paired with tender zucchini, sweet tomatoes, and Radiatore pasta in a savory garlic and Parmesan broth. Fresh basil and a splash of lemon juice brighten the dish, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s hearty, healthy, and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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One-pot wonder: Less mess, less stress
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Healthy and hearty: Packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients
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Budget-friendly dinner: Affordable ingredients with gourmet flavor
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Family-approved: A complete meal both kids and adults will love
Ingredients Breakdown
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Olive Oil (1 tsp): For sautéing the sausages and veggies; adds a subtle, rich base flavor.
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Chicken Sausages (12 oz, Italian-style, sliced): Lean and full of seasoning, they bring protein and bold flavor to the dish.
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Onion (1 cup, diced): Adds savory depth and sweetness when sautéed.
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Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors in the pot.
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Garlic (2 tsp, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic, savory notes.
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Crushed Red Pepper (1/4 tsp, optional): Adds a touch of heat to balance the richness.
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Chicken Broth (4 cups): Acts as the cooking liquid for the pasta, creating a flavorful base.
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Radiatore Pasta (8 oz): Short, ridged pasta that holds sauce well—ideal for one-pot meals.
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Zucchini (2 cups, chopped): Adds freshness and a soft bite.
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Lemon Juice (2 tbsp): Brightens the dish and cuts through the richness.
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Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup, grated, divided): Adds umami and a creamy, cheesy finish.
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Grape Tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Bursts of sweetness that balance the savory elements.
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Fresh Basil (1/3 cup, chopped): Brings a fragrant, herbaceous finish to the dish.
Tips and Tricks:
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Use pre-cooked sausages for faster prep
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Add spinach or kale for an extra veggie boost
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Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber
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For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt
Variations and Customizations:
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Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta
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Dairy-free: Skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative
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Vegetarian: Substitute chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or chickpeas
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Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce
Pairing Suggestions:
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Side salad with balsamic vinaigrette
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Crusty garlic bread or focaccia
Storage Instructions:
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or microwave in 30-second intervals
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Freeze: Not recommended due to zucchini texture, but pasta and sausage freeze well separately
Popular Questions:
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! Penne, rotini, farfalle, or orzo all work well in this one-pot recipe.
Is this meal good for meal prep?
Absolutely! It holds up well in the fridge and reheats beautifully for quick lunches or dinners.
Can I make it spicier?
Add extra crushed red pepper or stir in some spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken sausage.