Delicious & Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta Recipe for Healthy Weeknight Dinners

Looking for a hearty yet healthy meal to serve tonight? This Chicken Sausage Pasta recipe is the perfect answer. It’s quick, flavorful, and packed with lean protein and vegetables—all in one satisfying bowl. Whether you’re seeking healthy dinner ideas, easy sausage meals, or just something new to try with chicken polish sausage, this recipe is a guaranteed win.

Perfect for busy evenings, this pasta dish delivers restaurant-level taste without the hassle. And if you’re into smart weeknight dinners like our Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta or cozy classics like Creamy Marry Me Chickpeas, you’ll love adding this one to your rotation.

Save

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Sausage Pasta Recipe

This dish is ideal for anyone who wants a well-balanced dinner without sacrificing flavor. It includes juicy chicken sausage, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a savory, lightly spicy blend. It’s:

• Ready in 30 minutes
• Great for meal prep
• Packed with nutrients and high-quality protein
• Easily customizable for dietary preferences

It’s especially great if you love quick meals like our One-Pan Ground Chicken Casserole or need something fast after a long day.

Ingredients for Chicken Sausage Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

• 8 oz pasta (use gluten-free or whole grain if preferred)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 12 oz chicken sausage, sliced (sweet or smoked)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Love recipes with sweet sausage? This pasta has similar vibes to our creamy Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry—comforting and wholesome!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To keep prep simple, have these tools on hand:

• Large skillet
• Pot for pasta
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Colander
• Wooden spoon or spatula

This is also a great recipe for minimal cleanup—especially if you enjoy simple dishes like our Vegetable Casserole or Crispy Sheet Pan Gnocchi.

How to Make Chicken Sausage Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes, then add the zucchini. Continue to cook until all vegetables are tender.

3. Add Garlic and Chicken Sausage

Stir in the garlic and sliced chicken sausage. Let it cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the sausage is nicely browned and heated through.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Lower the heat. Add the drained pasta, reserved water, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Toss everything to coat evenly. Let it simmer for 2 minutes until the flavors meld together.

5. Serve and Garnish

Turn off the heat and garnish with chopped fresh herbs. Serve immediately while hot.

If you love creamy flavors, consider topping with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or try this dish alongside Pumpkin Whipped Cottage Cheese for added creaminess and protein.

Save

Recipe Tips for Perfect Chicken Sausage Pasta

• Don’t skip the pasta water—it adds creaminess and binds the ingredients.
• Browning the sausage enhances flavor—give it time in the skillet.
• Swap in turkey sausage or vegan sausage as a great alternative.
• Want more veggies? Add mushrooms, broccoli, or spinach.

This pasta recipe pairs beautifully with Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks or a light side like Cucumber Dill Salad.

Serving Suggestions and Plating Ideas

Turn a simple meal into a visual delight with these ideas:

• Serve in shallow bowls and top with fresh basil for a restaurant-style feel.
• Add a dollop of ricotta or burrata for extra creaminess.
• Accompany with Garlic Parmesan Focaccia for dipping.
• Finish with a light dessert like Peach Bruschetta with Whipped Ricotta or No Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the pasta – Always aim for al dente.
2. Not browning the sausage – This step brings bold, savory flavor.
3. Skipping the pasta water – It’s essential for creating a silky sauce.
4. Overcrowding the pan – If needed, brown sausage in batches for best texture.

Making this correctly the first time is just as easy as our foolproof Chicken Florentine Recipe.

Healthy Swaps and Recipe Variations

This dish is naturally healthy, but here are a few ways to make it even lighter:

• Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber.
• Swap out chicken sausage for air fryer chicken sausage and veggies to reduce oil.
• Want something dairy-free? Skip the cheese and go heavy on fresh herbs and lemon zest.
• Try the Vegetarian Pasta Primavera for a meatless version.

How to Store and Reheat

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Add a splash of water or broth and warm on the stove or microwave.

Perfect for meal prep just like our Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats or Make-Ahead Breakfast Bowls.

What to Serve With Chicken Sausage Pasta

Complete your meal with these no-alcohol pairings:

• Iced Herbal Tea or Lavender Lemonade
• A side of Roasted Stuffed Bell Peppers
• Crunchy Cucumber Mint Agua Fresca
• And for dessert? Try Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls

Save

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of sausage?
Yes! This recipe works well with turkey, smoked, or even vegan sausage.

Is this recipe spicy?
Only if you add the red pepper flakes. Feel free to omit them for a milder version.

Can I add cheese?
Absolutely. Parmesan, mozzarella, or goat cheese are great additions.

What kind of pasta should I use?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rotini works best for catching all the flavor.

Final Thoughts on Chicken Sausage Pasta

Whether you’re craving something hearty, healthy, or just fast and flavorful, this Chicken Sausage Pasta delivers it all. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that feels indulgent but is full of nourishing ingredients.

If you enjoy vibrant meals like Mediterranean Baked Fish or rich, cozy dishes like Creamy Tuscan Salmon, you’ll love this one too.

Print