These easy chicken sausages served over zucchini pasta are a tasty treat! The sausages are juicy and full of flavor, while the zucchini makes a light and fresh base.
Who needs traditional pasta when you can twirl your fork around some green noodles? 😄 I love how quick this meal comes together—perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Sausages: These provide the main protein in the dish. I like using spicy ones for extra flavor, but you can always go for mild if preferred. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausages work great too!
Zucchini: The star ingredient! Zucchini makes a fantastic low-carb substitute for pasta. If you’re out of zucchini, feel free to use other vegetables like spaghetti squash or carrots; just remember, they may need different cooking times.
Olive Oil: This adds rich flavor and helps cook the sausage and veggies. If you’re looking for an alternative, avocado oil is a good choice with a high smoke point. Butter can also add a nice taste if you prefer.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a cheesy finish. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast is a great substitute that gives a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
What’s the Best Way to Make Zucchini Noodles?
Zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” can be a bit tricky if you’re new to them! Here’s how to get them right:
- Use a spiralizer for long, noodle-like strands. A vegetable peeler is great if you want wider ribbons.
- After making the noodles, sprinkle with a little salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture.
- When sautéing, keep it quick! Just 2-3 minutes is all you need for the perfect tender texture.
This way, they won’t become mushy, and you’ll keep that delightful crunch! Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
Easy Chicken Sausages with Zucchini Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 chicken sausage links (mild or spicy, according to preference)
- 4 medium zucchinis (to make zucchini noodles)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and another 10-15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes to get this delicious meal on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sausages:
Start by slicing the chicken sausages into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and make it easier to mix everything together later.
2. Make Zucchini Noodles:
Using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler, create long noodles from the zucchinis. If you’re using a peeler, aim for thin ribbons. Set these aside; they’ll be the light and healthy base for your dish!
3. Cook the Sausages:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage pieces and cook them for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked all the way through. Once done, remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Sauté Garlic and Spices:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Add Zucchini Noodles and Cherry Tomatoes:
Now, add your zucchini noodles and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Gently sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until the noodles are tender but still have a nice crunch. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked sausage pieces to the skillet and toss everything together. Cook for another minute or so, just to combine the flavors and heat the sausage.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. If you like, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with fresh basil or parsley to add an extra touch of flavor.
8. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve the dish immediately while it’s hot and fresh. Dig in and enjoy the deliciousness of your Easy Chicken Sausages with Zucchini Pasta!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While chicken sausages are a great option for a leaner meal, you can definitely use turkey sausages, pork, or even plant-based sausages if you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the type you choose!
What If I Don’t Have a Spiralizer?
No worries! You can use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons of zucchini or simply use a knife to slice them into thin strips. It will take a little longer, but you’ll still get delicious zucchini pasta!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Just keep in mind that the zucchini may become softer upon reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage and zucchini noodles ahead of time. Cook the sausage and create the noodles, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just sauté them together and enjoy your quick meal!
