Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta

Introduction:

Enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal with chicken sausages, zucchini, and tender pasta, all prepared in just 25 minutes. This easy-to-make dish combines Italian-style chicken sausages with vibrant vegetables and pasta for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients:

• 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:

1. Cook Sausages: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken sausages and onion, cooking until sausages are browned and onion is tender.
2. Add Flavors: Season with salt, red pepper flakes, and garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth, scraping the pan to release browned bits. Bring to a boil.
3. Cook Pasta: Add uncooked pasta to the boiling broth. Stir frequently for 10 minutes until pasta is mostly tender.
4. Add Zucchini: Stir in chopped zucchini and cook for 3 more minutes until zucchini is tender and most of the broth is absorbed.
5. Finish Dish: Stir in lemon juice, 3 tbsp Parmesan cheese, and grape tomatoes. Remove from heat. Top with basil and remaining Parmesan cheese before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken sausages with plant-based sausages.
• Add More Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach.
• Spice It Up: Increase the crushed red pepper for a spicier dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, any small pasta shape will work, such as penne or farfalle.
2. Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free.
3. Can I substitute chicken sausages with another protein? Yes, you can use turkey sausages or cooked chicken breast.
4. What if I don’t have fresh basil? Dried basil can be used in place of fresh, but add it earlier in the cooking process.
5. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes? Yes, canned tomatoes can be used; just adjust the amount and drain any excess liquid.
6. How do I make this dish dairy-free? Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
7. Can I freeze this dish? It is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat thoroughly.
8. What can I serve with this dish? It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
9. Can I make this dish ahead of time? It is best made fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance and cook it just before serving.
10. How can I adjust the portion size? Simply scale the ingredient quantities up or down based on the number of servings desired.

Conclusion:

This Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its flavorful combination of ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy this satisfying dish hot, and feel free to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to make it your own!

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