What’s the best way to cook chicken sausage with pasta and vegetables?

Start by browning the sliced chicken sausages in olive oil to create a flavorful base. Remove them once golden and cook your vegetables—zucchini and tomatoes—until just tender. Finally, toss everything together with cooked pasta, using reserved pasta water to bind the flavors.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken sausage for this recipe?

Absolutely. Pre-cooked chicken sausage works great and cuts down on prep time. Just slice it and heat it until browned for added texture and flavor.

Should zucchini be sautéed before adding to pasta?

Yes. Sauté zucchini after the sausage is browned. This allows it to caramelize slightly while retaining a tender, crisp texture. Don’t overcook—it should be fork-tender, not mushy.

What type of pasta works best with chicken sausage and veggies?

Short shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini are ideal because they capture the sausage and veggie pieces well. Whole grain or chickpea pasta also works for added fiber and protein.

Chicken Sausages with Zucchini Pasta – 5 Powerful Ways to Cook

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz chicken sausages, sliced
8 oz pasta (penne or rotini preferred)
2 medium zucchini, sliced
1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup grated parmesan
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
1/2 cup reserved pasta water

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Instructions

Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken sausage slices and sauté until browned. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add zucchini and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
Add garlic and cook 1 minute, then stir in cherry tomatoes. Cook until tomatoes begin to blister.
Return sausage to skillet and toss with veggies.
Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Toss everything to combine.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Sprinkle with parmesan and fresh herbs. Serve hot.

Notes

Swap zucchini with bell peppers or spinach if preferred.
Add cream or cream cheese at the end for a creamy version.
Pre-cooked chicken sausage is perfect—just brown it for added flavor.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American