Discover the Comfort of Cozy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Garden Veggies

When the craving for a comforting, flavor-packed pasta dish strikes, look no further than this delightful Cozy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Garden Veggies. This one-pot wonder seamlessly blends tender chicken sausage, fresh garden vegetables, and a creamy broth-based sauce for a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend gatherings.

Table of Contents

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

What sets this Cozy Chicken Sausage Pasta apart is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The juicy chicken sausage provides a savory backbone, while the garden-fresh zucchini, tomatoes, and basil add pops of color and vibrant taste. Tossed in a silky parmesan-laced sauce, every bite is an irresistible symphony of comfort and satisfaction.

The Comfort of Pasta Dishes

There’s just something about a hearty pasta dish that warms the soul and brings people together. This Cozy Chicken Sausage Pasta is no exception, offering the comforting appeal of pasta combined with the nutritious benefits of protein-rich chicken sausage and nutrient-dense vegetables. It’s the perfect meal to enjoy on a chilly evening, share with loved ones, or savor as leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients for Cozy Chicken Sausage Pasta

• 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 cups grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil

Key Ingredients Overview

The star of this dish, the chicken sausage, adds a savory and flavorful base, while the Italian-style seasoning provides a delightful Mediterranean flair. The assortment of fresh vegetables – zucchini, tomatoes, and basil – not only contribute vibrant color but also a nutritional boost to the pasta. The creamy parmesan sauce ties everything together, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Benefits of Ingredients

This Cozy Chicken Sausage Pasta is packed with wholesome ingredients that offer various health benefits. The chicken sausage provides a lean source of protein, while the zucchini and tomatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The parmesan cheese adds a boost of calcium, and the lemon juice provides a refreshing touch of acidity to balance the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook Sausage & Onion

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and diced onion, along with the salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic & Spice

Stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper (if using) and cook for an additional 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant.

Add Broth & Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the Radiatore pasta, reduce the heat to medium, and simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

Add Veggies

Stir in the chopped zucchini and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the zucchini is tender.

Finish with Flavor

Add the lemon juice, 1 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese, the halved grape tomatoes, and the chopped fresh basil. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.

Serve

Serve the Cozy Chicken Sausage Pasta warm, garnished with the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.

Cooking Tips and Variations

Substitutions for Ingredients

If you don’t have Italian-style chicken sausage on hand, you can substitute with regular chicken sausage or even mild Italian pork sausage. For the pasta, feel free to use any small shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or cavatappi. If you’re not a fan of zucchini, you can swap it for other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.

Adjusting Spice Levels

The crushed red pepper adds a subtle kick of heat to this Cozy Chicken Sausage Pasta. If you prefer a milder dish, simply omit the red pepper. For those who enjoy a bolder flavor, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper or even add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestions

This Cozy Chicken Sausage Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a fresh garden salad or a crusty garlic bread for an extra touch of comfort. If you’re in the mood for a heartier meal, you can add grilled or sautéed chicken breast or shrimp to the pasta.

Pairing Suggestions

Wine Pairings

For a delightful pairing, consider a light to medium-bodied white wine, such as a crisp Pinot Grigio or a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity in these wines will complement the creamy parmesan sauce and the bright flavors of the tomatoes and basil.

Side Dishes to Complement the Pasta

A simple side of roasted garlic bread or a fresh green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette would beautifully round out this Cozy Chicken Sausage Pasta dish. For a heartier accompaniment, consider serving it with a side of steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus.

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers

This Cozy Chicken Sausage Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pasta will continue to absorb the flavorful sauce, making it even more delicious the next day.

Best Methods for Reheating

To reheat the pasta, simply place it in a saucepan or skillet and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent the pasta from drying out.

FAQs About Cozy Chicken Sausage Pasta

Can I use other types of sausage?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for Italian-style chicken sausage, you can certainly use other types of sausage, such as pork, turkey, or even spicy Italian sausage, to suit your preferences.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not inherently gluten-free, as it uses regular pasta. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting the Radiatore pasta with a gluten-free pasta variety, such as brown rice or quinoa pasta.

What can I add for extra protein?

For an extra protein boost, you can add grilled or sautéed chicken breast, shrimp, or even chickpeas to the Cozy Chicken Sausage Pasta. This will make the dish even more satisfying and nutrient-dense.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet
• Cheesy Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff Pasta
• One-Pot Sausage and Peppers Penne Primavera

Conclusion

This Cozy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Garden Veggies is a true crowd-pleaser, blending the comforting flavors of pasta, the heartiness of chicken sausage, and the freshness of garden-fresh vegetables. With its easy-to-follow instructions and simple, wholesome ingredients, this dish is the perfect solution for a satisfying and nourishing weeknight meal or a delightful weekend gathering. Give it a try, and let the cozy comfort of this pasta dish warm your soul.

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