Description
A delightful dish combining juicy chicken sausages, tender zucchini, and fresh tomatoes with pasta in a creamy Parmesan base. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 12 oz Italian-style chicken sausages, sliced
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1/2 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
- 1 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausages and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fully cooked. Transfer them to a plate and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the diced onion and sprinkle with salt. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper (if using), stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a rolling boil. Stir in the Radiatore pasta and let it simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 9–10 minutes or until al dente.
- During the last 2–3 minutes of pasta cooking, toss in the chopped zucchini and let it cook until just tender.
- Stir in the lemon juice, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, halved grape tomatoes, and reserved chicken sausages. Let everything heat through, about 1–2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the dish is creamy.
- Turn off the heat and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and chopped fresh basil over the top. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
Customize the dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: chicken sausage, zucchini, pasta, quick meal, family dinner