Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta

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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:

• One-pot wonder: Less mess, less stress

• Healthy and hearty: Packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients

• Budget-friendly dinner: Affordable ingredients with gourmet flavor

• Family-approved: A complete meal both kids and adults will love

Ingredients Breakdown

• Olive Oil (1 tsp): For sautéing the sausages and veggies; adds a subtle, rich base flavor.

• Chicken Sausages (12 oz, Italian-style, sliced): Lean and full of seasoning, they bring protein and bold flavor to the dish.

• Onion (1 cup, diced): Adds savory depth and sweetness when sautéed.

• Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors in the pot.

• Garlic (2 tsp, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic, savory notes.

• Crushed Red Pepper (1/4 tsp, optional): Adds a touch of heat to balance the richness.

• Chicken Broth (4 cups): Acts as the cooking liquid for the pasta, creating a flavorful base.

• Radiatore Pasta (8 oz): Short, ridged pasta that holds sauce well—ideal for one-pot meals.

• Zucchini (2 cups, chopped): Adds freshness and a soft bite.

• Lemon Juice (2 tbsp): Brightens the dish and cuts through the richness.

• Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup, grated, divided): Adds umami and a creamy, cheesy finish.

• Grape Tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Bursts of sweetness that balance the savory elements.

• Fresh Basil (1/3 cup, chopped): Brings a fragrant, herbaceous finish to the dish.

Tips and Tricks:

• Use pre-cooked sausages for faster prep

• Add spinach or kale for an extra veggie boost

• Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber

• For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt

Variations and Customizations:

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta

• Dairy-free: Skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative

• Vegetarian: Substitute chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or chickpeas

• Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce

Pairing Suggestions:

• Side salad with balsamic vinaigrette

• Crusty garlic bread or focaccia

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days

• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or microwave in 30-second intervals

• 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.

Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Weeknight dinner solved! Juicy chicken sausage, tender zucchini & sweet tomatoes tossed with radiatore pasta in a garlic-Parmesan broth—all in one pot! Ready in 30 mins.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tsp olive oil

• 12 oz Italian-style chicken sausages, sliced

• 1 cup diced onion

• ½ tsp salt

• 2 tsp minced garlic

• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper (optional)

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 8 oz Radiatore pasta (or small pasta of your choice)

• 2 cups chopped zucchini

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

• 1 cup halved grape tomatoes

• ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil

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Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage:

• Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

• Add the sliced chicken sausages and cook until browned on both sides, about 5–7 minutes.

• Remove the sausages from the pot and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics:

• In the same pot, add diced onion and salt, and cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened.

• Stir in minced garlic and crushed red pepper (if using). Cook for an additional 1 minute.

3. Add Pasta and Broth:

• Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.

• Stir in the Radiatore pasta and reduce heat to a simmer.

• Cook pasta according to package instructions, 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add Vegetables:

• When the pasta is almost done, stir in the zucchini and continue to cook for 2–3 minutes until tender.

5. Finish with Flavor:

• Return the browned sausage to the pot.

• Add lemon juice, half of the Parmesan cheese, grape tomatoes, and fresh basil.

• Stir gently to combine and warm everything through.

6. Serve:

• Spoon into bowls and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese.

• Garnish with additional basil if desired.

Notes

• Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels

• Stir pasta occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot

• Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

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