Chicken Sausage Zucchini Pasta

Chicken Sausage Zucchini Pasta image source: www.simplynotable.com

Chicken Sausage Zucchini Pasta

When it comes to quick and easy dinner recipes, it doesn’t get much better than this Chicken Sausage Zucchini Pasta. This delicious dish includes all the necessary components for a complete dinner, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. The zucchini and chicken sausage come together to create a savory, filling meal, and the whole thing can be on the table in no time.

Chicken Sausage Zucchini Pasta Overview

Chicken sausage zucchini pasta is a hearty and delicious meal that comes together in minutes. In this dish, chicken sausage and zucchini are sautéed then tossed with a creamy ricotta cheese sauce and cooked pasta. It’s a nutritious and delicious meal that the whole family will love. With just a few simple ingredients and no complex cooking technique, you can have a delicious meal on the table in just a few minutes.

The best part about chicken sausage zucchini pasta is that it’s so versatile. If you’re looking for a vegan option, simply substitute the chicken sausage with an alternative vegan sausage. For a gluten-free or grain-free version, you can use a substitute noodle such as zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash noodles, or steamed vegetables. And if you’re short on time or don’t have access to a full pantry, you can easily substitute the ricotta cheese sauce with a store-bought marinara sauce or salad dressing.

This chicken sausage zucchini pasta comes together quickly. It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight meal. It yields about 4 servings, so it’s perfect for a family dinner.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces of pasta, preferably short pasta
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 lb of chicken sausage
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thin strips
• 1 cup of ricotta cheese
• 1 cup of Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken sausage and cook for 5 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Add the zucchini and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the ricotta cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add the cooked pasta and toss until everything is combined and the ingredients are heated through.
6. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 500 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 2 g

Cooking Time & Servings

The recipe yields 4 servings and can be made in under 30 minutes.

Equipment

To make this chicken sausage zucchini pasta, you’ll need:

• 1 large skillet
• 1 large pot
• 1 wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Sharp knife

Serving Suggestions

This chicken sausage zucchini pasta can be served as is or as a side dish. For added flavor, try serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil. You can also add more protein to the dish by serving it with grilled or pan-seared chicken or shrimp. Another delicious way to enjoy this meal is with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of a light or creamy vinaigrette dressing.

Variation Ideas

To add even more flavor to this dish, consider adding some extra mix-ins, such as cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, cooked mushrooms, or freshly chopped greens like spinach or kale. You can also adjust the flavor by using a different type of cheese, such as feta, Gruyere, or cheddar.

Substitutions

If you need to make substitutions, there are a few options. To make this vegan, simply replace the chicken sausage with vegan sausage. You can use gluten-free pasta, zucchini noodles, or steamed vegetables as an alternative to regular pasta. The ricotta cheese can also be replaced with a store-bought marinara sauce or salad dressing.

Storage

This chicken sausage zucchini pasta is best enjoyed fresh and hot. However, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. To store, place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat in the microwave or in the skillet over low heat.

Tips

• Use a non-stick skillet for easy cooking and clean-up.
• Instead of precooking the pasta, you can add the uncooked pasta to the skillet as well.
• To add extra flavor, try stirring in some sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the dish.
• Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor.

Notes

• This chicken sausage zucchini pasta is best served as is. However, for a more substantial meal, pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetable.
• If you’re not a fan of zucchini, you can always substitute it with other vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach.
• This dish can be prepared in advance. Simply cook the pasta al dente, toss the cooked pasta with the sausage and zucchini mixture, and store in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• If you’re looking for a bit of heat, try adding some red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a few slices of jalapeños.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use a different type of pasta?
  Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, farfalle, rigatoni, or macaroni.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
  Yes, you can cook the pasta al dente, combine with the sausage and zucchini mixture, and store in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Can I freeze this dish?
  Yes, you can freeze this dish. Before freezing, make sure to cool the pasta completely. Place in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
  Yes, this dish is suitable for vegetarians. Simply substitute the chicken sausage with an alternative vegan sausage.

Category

Main Dish, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Weeknight Meals, Fall.

Personal Thought

This chicken sausage zucchini pasta is an easy weeknight meal that is loaded with flavor. This dish is an excellent combination of protein and vegetables and can fit into many dietary plans. It’s also the perfect dish to serve for guests as it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit any dietary needs. With a prep time of only 10 minutes and a cooking time of 20 minutes, it’s a delicious meal that won’t take up too much of your time.

If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful dinner option, this chicken sausage zucchini pasta is the perfect choice. Serve it with a side salad for an extra healthy boost, or a refreshing glass of white wine for a special touch. The possibilities are endless with this delicious dish!

Encourage your family and friends to try this delicious chicken sausage zucchini pasta! Invite them to get creative and make it their own with variations and mix-ins that appeal to their individual tastes. With the right mix of ingredients, it can be a delicious, healthy meal that everyone can enjoy.

Thank you for taking the time to read about this delicious chicken sausage zucchini pasta. We hope that you will give this recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself!

“It’s impossible to think of good food without seafood coming to mind.”
—Nigella Lawson