Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta is a vibrant, wholesome dish that comes together in a single pot. It features Italian-style chicken sausage paired with tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a bright burst of lemon and herbs. Light yet satisfying, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings when you want bold flavor without a lot of cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This one-pot meal is packed with lean protein, fresh produce, and aromatic herbs for a perfectly balanced dinner. The combination of savory chicken sausages, al dente pasta, and tender zucchini brings comfort, while lemon juice and fresh basil keep the dish bright and refreshing. It’s simple to make, ready in about 30 minutes, and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or pasta.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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 chicken broth
8 oz Radiatore pasta (or any small pasta)
2 cups chopped zucchini
2 tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 cup halved grape tomatoes
⅓ cup chopped fresh basil
directions
- Heat the Oil
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausages and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the sausages from the pot and set aside. - Cook the Onions and Garlic
In the same pot, add the diced onion and salt. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper, if using. Cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently. - Add the Broth and Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the pasta and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, or according to package instructions, until al dente. - Add the Zucchini
Add the chopped zucchini to the pot and cook for another 3–4 minutes, until just tender but still vibrant. - Finish the Dish
Stir in the lemon juice, half of the Parmesan cheese, grape tomatoes, and the cooked chicken sausages. Simmer for 2 more minutes, until the tomatoes begin to soften and the sausages are heated through. - Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. Garnish with the remaining Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Use spicy chicken sausages or increase the crushed red pepper for more heat.
- More Vegetables: Add spinach, kale, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a nutrient boost.
- Cheese Swap: Use Pecorino Romano or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace sausage with vegetarian sausage or cannellini beans for a meat-free version.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the texture of the vegetables and pasta after thawing.
FAQs
Can I use pork or turkey sausage instead?
Yes, pork or turkey sausages can be used. Just make sure they’re fully cooked and sliced before adding.
What can I substitute for Radiatore pasta?
Any small pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle will work well in this dish.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta until just al dente and avoid overcooking after adding the zucchini and sausage.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it’s great for prepping meals ahead. Portion into containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen zucchini or mixed vegetables can be used. Add them a few minutes earlier to allow for thawing.
Print
Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-servings
Description
This Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta recipe is a vibrant, hearty, one-pot dish full of Italian flavor. Juicy chicken sausage, tender zucchini, sweet grape tomatoes, and Radiatore pasta come together for a quick, delicious dinner.
Ingredients
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1 tsp olive oil
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12 oz Italian-style chicken sausages, sliced
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1 cup diced onion
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1/2 tsp salt
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2 tsp minced garlic
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1/4 tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
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4 cups chicken broth
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8 oz Radiatore pasta (or any small pasta)
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2 cups chopped zucchini
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2 tbsp lemon juice
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
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1 cup halved grape tomatoes
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1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
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Heat the Oil:
In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Cook chicken sausages until browned (5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside. -
Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot, sauté onion with salt for 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cook 1 minute. -
Add the Broth and Pasta:
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions (about 8–10 minutes). -
Add the Zucchini:
Stir in chopped zucchini and cook 3–4 more minutes, until tender. -
Finish the Dish:
Add lemon juice, half the Parmesan, grape tomatoes, and cooked sausage. Stir and cook 2 more minutes.
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Garnish and Serve:
Remove from heat, stir in basil, and garnish with remaining Parmesan. Serve warm.
Notes
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Swap zucchini for yellow squash or spinach if preferred.
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Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
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Tastes great as leftovers and perfect for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
