Savory Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Tomato Pasta
is a hearty yet light Mediterranean-style meal. Juicy chicken sausages are seared to perfection and tossed with tender pasta, sautéed zucchini, and a vibrant tomato-garlic sauce. It’s a one-pan dinner that brings together protein, veggies, and classic Mediterranean flavors — perfect for lunch or dinner.
⏱ Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken Sausages and Pasta:
2–3 chicken sausages (Italian or Mediterranean-style)
1 ½ cups uncooked pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 large tomato, chopped)
¼ cup tomato paste or crushed tomatoes
¼ cup pasta water (reserved from boiling)
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried basil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (extra for drizzling)
Optional: pinch of chili flakes for mild heat
Optional Garnishes:
Grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta
Fresh basil or parsley
Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
3. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Sausages
1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chicken sausages and cook for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove from pan, slice into rounds, and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Zucchini-Tomato Sauce
1. In the same pan, add another small drizzle of olive oil.
2. Add onion and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add zucchini and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in cherry tomatoes and tomato paste, then add oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
6. Pour in reserved pasta water and let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combine Everything
1. Add cooked pasta and sliced sausages to the pan.
2. Toss everything together so pasta absorbs the sauce.
3. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil and adjust seasoning with salt or lemon juice for brightness.
Step 5: Serve
Plate the pasta, top with fresh basil or parsley, and sprinkle with Parmesan or feta.
Serve warm with a side of salad or garlic bread if desired.
Notes & Tips
Make it lighter: Use whole-grain or chickpea pasta for extra fiber.
Add veggies: Spinach, bell peppers, or roasted eggplant work beautifully.
No chicken sausage? Use grilled chicken pieces or turkey sausage instead.
Creamy twist: Stir in 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or a splash of cream at the end for a creamy tomato sauce.
❓ frequently asked questions FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes — add a pinch of red chili flakes or use spicy chicken sausage.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Simply replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or chickpeas for protein.
Q: Can I use canned tomatoes?
Absolutely! Substitute 1 cup of diced canned tomatoes for fresh ones.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~540 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g