Looking for a quick and wholesome dinner idea? This chicken sausage and broccoli pasta recipe is just what you need. It brings together lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and a light, savory sauce, all in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is satisfying, simple, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite pasta shape or seasoning.
Key Takeaway
- Chicken sausage offers a leaner protein option without losing flavor.
- Blanching broccoli keeps it tender and vibrant.
- A light sauce made from pasta water, cheese, and butter ties the dish together.
Core Components
Chicken sausage and broccoli pasta mixes lean protein, fresh vegetables, and pasta for a balanced meal. Unlike traditional pork sausage, chicken sausage cuts down on fat and calories but keeps a savory punch. The broccoli adds color and crunch, plus vitamin C and fiber. Pasta shapes like orecchiette, rotini, or shells are best because they catch bits of sausage and broccoli, making every bite interesting.Aromatics like garlic and red pepper flakes add warmth and depth, while lemon zest or fresh basil can brighten the whole dish. The sauce is simple, it’s not heavy cream but a light coating made by blending reserved pasta water with olive oil, butter, and a bit of Parmesan or Asiago cheese. This keeps the pasta moist without weighing it down [1].
Ingredient Spotlight: Why Chicken Sausage Works So Well
Chicken sausage is a fantastic choice for pasta dishes because it offers lean protein with less saturated fat compared to traditional pork sausage. Its mild yet savory flavor complements the freshness of broccoli perfectly without overpowering the dish. Plus, chicken sausage often comes with a variety of seasonings, like Italian herbs or spicy fennel, that add an extra layer of taste to your pasta.
Pasta Shape Guide: What Works Best
Choosing the right pasta shape can really elevate your chicken sausage and broccoli pasta. Penne and rigatoni are classic favorites because their tubular shapes trap sauce and sausage bits beautifully. Fusilli and orecchiette also work well, as their twists and little cups catch every delicious bite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different pasta shapes to find your personal favorite!
How to Meal Prep Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Pasta
This dish is perfect for meal prepping because it reheats well and stays flavorful. After cooking, divide the pasta into airtight containers and store it in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or olive oil to keep the sauce from drying out. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to two months.
Healthy Add-Ins and Swaps
How to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Pasta
Credits: Ginger Snap Kitchen
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start with a large pot of salted water brought to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just before al dente. In the last few minutes, toss in the broccoli florets. This quick blanching softens the broccoli but keeps it green and crisp.Before draining, save 1 to 2 cups of the pasta water. This starchy liquid is key for making the sauce.
2. Cook the Chicken Sausage
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken sausage from its casing if needed, then crumble it into the skillet. Brown the sausage, breaking it up as it cooks, until it’s golden and crispy around the edges.Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking briefly until fragrant. This step brings out the sausage’s flavor and adds a little heat.
3. Combine and Create the Sauce
Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the sausage. Pour in some reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture and help form a silky sauce. Scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pan, they carry a lot of flavor.Stir in butter and grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese. Toss everything until the cheese melts and coats the pasta evenly. Add more pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.For a fresh touch, add lemon zest and chopped basil at this stage.
4. Serve
Dish out the pasta while it’s hot. Sprinkle extra cheese on top and drizzle with olive oil if you like. The combination of crispy sausage, tender broccoli, and lightly coated pasta makes for a satisfying meal.
Recipe Variations and Tips
- Creamy Version: Add a splash of cream or half-and-half with the cheese for a richer sauce [2].
- Extra Veggies: Bell peppers, spinach, or peas can be tossed in for more color and nutrients.
- Pasta Choices: Orecchiette, rotini, shells, or rigatoni work well because they hold sauce and bits of sausage.
- Cheese Options: Parmesan is classic, but Asiago or Pecorino Romano add sharper flavors.
- Gluten-Free: Swap in gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Make-Ahead: This dish reheats well. Add a splash of water when warming it up to keep the sauce loose.
Nutritional Highlights
This dish balances lean protein from chicken sausage, fiber and vitamins from broccoli, and complex carbs from pasta. Using chicken sausage and a light olive oil–based sauce makes it a healthier choice compared to cream-heavy pasta dishes.
Why This Dish Works
Chicken sausage and broccoli pasta fits into a busy weeknight schedule. It takes about 30 minutes and uses just one pot for pasta and broccoli and one skillet for sausage and sauce. The contrast between savory sausage, tender broccoli, and pasta with a light sauce makes it satisfying without being heavy. It’s a simple dish that feels fresh and wholesome, with plenty of room for tweaks based on what’s on hand or personal taste.
Core Components
Chicken Sausage
Chicken sausage stands in for traditional pork sausage, cutting down on fat and calories. It still packs flavor, especially when browned well. Mild or spicy varieties let cooks adjust the heat level. Removing the casing and crumbling the sausage helps it cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
Broccoli
Broccoli adds more than just color. It brings texture and nutrients, especially vitamin C and fiber. Blanching the florets in the pasta water keeps them bright green and tender-crisp. Overcooking makes broccoli mushy and dull, so timing is key.
Pasta
Short pasta shapes like orecchiette, rotini, and shells are best. Their curves and ridges catch bits of sausage and broccoli, making each forkful flavorful. Cooking pasta just shy of al dente is important because it finishes cooking in the sauce, absorbing flavors without getting mushy.
Aromatics and Flavorings
Garlic and red pepper flakes add warmth and a little kick. Lemon zest or fresh basil can brighten the dish, cutting through the richness of the sausage and cheese.
Sauce
The sauce is light but satisfying. It’s made by mixing reserved pasta water with olive oil, butter, and cheese. The starch in the pasta water helps the sauce cling to the pasta, creating a silky texture without heaviness.
Conclusion
This chicken sausage and broccoli pasta recipe is a straightforward way to get a balanced meal on the table fast. It’s flexible, too, letting cooks swap in different veggies or cheeses as they like. The light sauce keeps the focus on the main ingredients without drowning them in cream or heavy sauces. It’s a dish that feels fresh, satisfying, and just right for everyday meals.
FAQ
Is chicken sausage and broccoli pasta healthy?
Yes, this dish is considered healthy because it combines lean protein from chicken sausage with fiber-rich broccoli and complex carbs from pasta. It’s a great choice for a balanced meal that keeps you full longer. To make it even healthier, use whole wheat or lentil-based pasta and go light on the sauce.
Can I make chicken sausage and broccoli pasta in one pot?
Absolutely! One-pot pasta is perfect for busy nights. You just sauté the chicken sausage, then add pasta, chopped broccoli, and broth or water into the same pot. Let it cook until the pasta is done and the liquid is mostly absorbed. It’s easy, flavorful, and saves on cleanup.
How do I keep broccoli from getting mushy in pasta?
To avoid mushy broccoli, add it in the last 3 – 4 minutes of pasta cooking or steam it separately beforehand. This keeps the broccoli tender but still slightly crisp. Overcooking can make it lose both texture and nutrients, so timing is key.
What sauce goes well with chicken sausage and broccoli pasta?
Several sauces work great, try garlic butter, olive oil with lemon juice, or a creamy parmesan sauce. These complement the flavors without overpowering the dish. Tomato-based sauces also pair nicely if you prefer something tangier. Add herbs like basil or parsley for a fresh finish.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can make it gluten-free by using pasta made from chickpeas, lentils, or brown rice. These options are tasty and high in protein too. Just be sure to read the label on your chicken sausage, some brands may contain gluten as a filler or seasoning.
References
- https://www.birdseye.com/recipes/lunch/italian-sausage-and-broccoli-pasta-10261
- https://thecozycook.com/chicken-and-broccoli-pasta/
Related Articles
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-and-pasta/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-cajun-pasta/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-meal-prep/
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I’m Mary R. Q. , a seasoned professional chef dedicated to elevating home cooking experiences. Through my expertise in the culinary arts, I provide practical cooking tips and insightful reviews of kitchen utensils on my blog, milkwoodrestaurant.com. As a passionate advocate for transforming everyday meals into extraordinary culinary adventures, I aim to empower home cooks with the knowledge and tools they need to create delicious and memorable dishes. I’m also an author of the book “1,001 Kitchen Tips & Tricks: Helpful Hints for Cooking, Baking, and Cleaning (1,001 Tips & Tricks)” which is sold on Amazon. Join me on a flavorful journey as we explore the art of cooking and the essential tools that make it a joy.
