Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta – Flavorful One-Pot Dinner

Introduction

Looking for a delicious and easy one-pot dinner recipe? Look no further! This Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta dish is packed with flavor and requires minimal effort. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Sausages:

• 4 chicken sausages
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces pasta (your choice of shape)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 zucchinis, sliced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Sausages

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken sausages in the mixture until well coated. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken Sausages

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken sausages and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Saute the Vegetables

In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

Add the sliced zucchinis and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Return the chicken sausages to the skillet with the sauteed vegetables. Add the cooked pasta, chicken broth, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Simmer and Serve

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Once the dish is heated through and the flavors have developed, remove from heat. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Swap chicken sausages for turkey or pork sausages.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Include other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Use different types of pasta like penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.

Tips

• Choose high-quality chicken sausages for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the other ingredients.
• If you prefer a saucier dish, add more chicken broth or a splash of cream.
• Feel free to add grated cheese to the skillet while simmering for a cheesy twist.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Conclusion

Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta is a flavorful one-pot dinner that will satisfy your cravings and save you time in the kitchen. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious flavors!

FAQs

Can I use different types of sausages?

Yes, you can use turkey, pork, or even vegetarian sausages if you prefer.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken sausages and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add extra vegetables or substitute with plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While it is possible to freeze the leftovers, the texture of the pasta might change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to consume the dish fresh, but if you do freeze it, make sure to reheat it gently to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, and make sure to use a large enough skillet or pot to accommodate the increased volume.

What other herbs can I use?

Feel free to experiment with different herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary. Fresh herbs will provide a brighter flavor, but dried herbs work well too.