Name: Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 tsp olive oil; 12 oz Italian Style Chicken Sausages, cut into discs; 1 cup onion, diced; ½ tsp salt; 2 tsp garlic, minced; ¼ tsp crushed red pepper (optional); 4 cups chicken broth; 8 oz uncooked Radiatore pasta (or any other small pasta shape); 2 cups zucchini, chopped; 2 tbsp lemon juice; ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (divided); 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved; ⅓ cup fresh basil, chopped

Introduction to Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet

Are you searching for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor? Look no further than the Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet! This dish combines juicy chicken sausages with fresh zucchini, vibrant tomatoes, and hearty pasta—all cooked together in one pan for effortless cleanup.

Why Choose the Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet?

This recipe is more than just a delightful mix of ingredients; it's a lifeline for busy young professionals. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a nourishing meal that serves six, making it perfect for meal prepping or sharing with friends. With only a handful of ingredients including protein-packed Swiss chicken sausages and wholesome veggies, it’s a dish that aligns with healthy eating goals without compromising on taste.

Imagine coming home after a long day and in less than half an hour, you’ve transformed simple pantry staples into an inviting kitchen masterpiece. You can even experiment with other vegetables or pasta shapes!

The Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet is not only comforting but also customizable. So, if you have leftover produce or a favorite sauce, feel free to tweak the recipe to make it your own. Your taste buds will thank you for this savory experience!

Ingredients for Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet

Creating a delicious Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet is a breeze with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Olive Oil: 1 teaspoon to sauté and enhance flavors.
Italian Style Chicken Sausages: 12 oz, cut into discs for that savory base.
Diced Onion: 1 cup adds a sweet and savory depth.
Salt: ½ teaspoon enhances all the flavors (Kosher or sea salt is great).
Garlic: 2 teaspoon minced, because who can resist that aroma?
Crushed Red Pepper: ¼ teaspoon (optional) for a little kick.
Chicken Broth: 4 cups to create a delicious pasta sauce.
Radiatore Pasta: 8 oz (or your favorite small pasta) for perfect bites.
Chopped Zucchini: 2 cups, bringing nutrition and texture.
Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoon for a zesty finish.
Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated, for that cheesy goodness.
Grape Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved, for a burst of sweetness.
Fresh Basil: ⅓ cup, chopped, adds a fragrant touch.

Gather these ingredients, and get ready for a satisfying meal that’ll impress everyone around the table! For tips on how to select the best zucchini, check out this guide.

Preparing Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet

Gather and prep your ingredients

To start off your Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet, it’s essential to gather and prep all your ingredients. You’ll need some flavorful items:

12 oz of Italian-style chicken sausages, cut into discs
1 cup of diced onion
2 cups of chopped zucchini (for that delightful crunch)
8 oz of uncooked radiatore pasta (or your choice of small pasta)
1 cup of halved grape tomatoes
2 tablespoon of lemon juice for brightness
¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese (because who doesn’t love cheese?)

Besides those, don’t forget your olive oil, garlic, salt, and optional crushed red pepper for a hint of spice! Make sure to prep everything before you begin; chopping while you cook can lead to a kitchen frenzy, and who needs that?

Sauté the chicken sausages and onion

Once you have everything ready, grab a large skillet and heat some olive oil over medium heat. This is where the magic begins! When the oil is hot, toss in your chicken sausages and diced onion. Cook them until the sausages are nicely browned, and the onion turns tender, which should take about 5 minutes. The sizzling sound will surely make your stomach growl!

Season and add garlic and broth

After you’ve sautéed the sausages and onion to perfection, it’s time to season. Sprinkle in the salt, a pinch of crushed red pepper for a flavor boost, and your minced garlic. Cook this fragrant mixture for about a minute. Then, pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any scrumptious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This is where you unlock flavors you didn’t even know were hiding! Bring everything to a gentle boil before adding the uncooked pasta.

Cook the pasta to perfection

Now we’re in that sweet spot of the recipe—cooking the pasta! Stir the pasta into the bubbling broth and let it simmer away for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking and check for doneness as you go. You want the pasta to be mostly tender before adding the zucchini for an ideal texture.

Add zucchini and finish the dish

After your pasta has cooked nicely, it’s time to bring in the zucchini. Stir in those beautiful green pieces and continue to cook for another 3 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still has a bit of bite. Then, add in the lemon juice, grape tomatoes, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Give everything a final stir, and voilà! You’ve turned simple ingredients into a vibrant and delicious Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet that will impress everyone at the dinner table. Enjoy!

Variations on Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet

Swap in Different Proteins

Looking to customize your Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet? Consider switching out the chicken sausage for other proteins! Try turkey bacon for a smoky flavor, shrimp for a light, seafood twist, or even beef strips for a heartier meal. Each protein will bring its own unique taste and texture while maintaining the dish's wholesome appeal.

Try More Vegetables for Added Flavor

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your veggies! Bell peppers, spinach, or even asparagus can work wonders in enhancing the flavors of your Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet. Adding more vegetables not only boosts your nutrient intake but also provides vibrant colors—making your dish visually appealing. Check out seasonal produce for the freshest options to incorporate into your meal.

Remember, cooking should be fun, so feel free to experiment!

Cooking tips and notes for Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet

When preparing your Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet, consider these helpful tips to elevate your dish:

Choose the Right Sausage: Opt for high-quality Italian chicken sausages for that rich flavor. You can always substitute with turkey sausage if you prefer a leaner option.
Pasta Timing: Stir the pasta frequently to prevent it from sticking. If you love a bit of texture, cook it slightly less than al dente—perfect for finishing in the skillet!
Zucchini Tips: Slice zucchini into even pieces for uniform cooking. If you have other veggies on hand, like bell peppers or spinach, toss them in for added color and nutrition.
Fresh Herbs: Don’t skimp on the fresh basil! It adds a burst of flavor, making your Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet feel gourmet.

For added zest, consider a squeeze of lemon juice or some cherry tomatoes on the side. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet

Pair your Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet with a simple side salad to brighten up the meal. A fresh arugula salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully and adds a zesty flavor contrast.

For added texture, consider a slice of crusty whole-grain bread to soak up the flavorful broth. If you're looking for something heartier, serve it alongside grilled vegetables or roasted Brussels sprouts.

Don’t forget a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top and a handful of fresh basil to really elevate the presentation. This colorful plate not only tastes delicious but also provides a healthy, well-rounded dinner option!

For more vibrant side options, check out these seasonal salads.

Time Breakdown for Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet

Preparation Time

Get ready to dive into this delicious recipe with just 5 minutes to prep! Dice your ingredients and gather everything you need, so you can start cooking without a hitch.

Cooking Time

You’ll whip up this delightful Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet in only 15 minutes. That’s right, a full-flavored, wholesome meal in under half an hour!

Total Time

From prep to plate, you're looking at a quick 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something homemade. Enjoy a meal that's flavorful, nutritious, and hassle-free—what's not to love?

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet

When preparing the delicious Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet, it's essential to understand its nutritional profile to keep your meals balanced and nutritious. Here's a quick breakdown of the key nutritional facts:

Calories

This hearty dish comes in at approximately 310 calories per serving, making it a satisfying option for dinner without overindulging. Ideal for maintaining a balanced diet!

Protein

Packed with about 17 grams of protein, the Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet includes Italian-style chicken sausages that provide a protein boost essential for muscle repair and growth. It's a smart choice for those looking to fuel their busy lifestyles.

Sodium

At 1423 mg of sodium per serving, you may want to balance this meal with lower-sodium options throughout your day. Be mindful of your overall sodium intake to help maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

By enjoying this dish occasionally and pairing it with fresh greens or a light salad, you’ll ensure a well-rounded meal that tastes as good as it is good for you! For more insights on nutritional needs, consider visiting the CDC Nutrition section.

FAQ about Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet

Can I make this pasta skillet vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily transform the Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet into a vegetarian delight by swapping out the chicken sausages for plant-based ones or using a variety of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. You could also add some chickpeas for an extra protein boost.

How can I store leftover pasta skillet?

Storing leftover Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet is simple. Just let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

What’s a good alternative to chicken sausages?

If you're looking for alternatives to chicken sausages, turkey bacon is a delicious option that adds a smoky flavor, or you can use diced chicken breast for a leaner choice. For a vegetarian take, consider using lentils or beans to maintain that hearty texture and flavor profile.

This Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet is versatile, making it a great addition to your weeknight meal rotation!

Conclusion on Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet

The Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet is a delightful fusion of flavors, making it an ideal go-to for busy weeknights. With tender chicken sausages, fresh veggies, and nourishing pasta, it’s nutritious and satisfying. Try this recipe, and you’ll have a delicious meal in just 20 minutes! Enjoy!