Pasta With Chicken And Sausage Sauce
A hearty pasta dish featuring spicy Italian sausage, tender chicken, and a rich tomato basil sauce, perfect for satisfying weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the sausage into slices.
- Put the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Brown the sausage slices in the pan.
- Add sliced onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add chopped garlic and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add drained and chopped plum tomatoes, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pan.
- Simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes.
- Add chicken strips, minced parsley, and crushed red pepper to the sauce.
- Simmer gently for 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly different flavor, try using sweet Italian sausage or a mix of meats. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute chicken breast for thighs. Fresh basil can enhance the taste, but dried herbs work well too. Additionally, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor, similar to Pasta With Chicken And Vegetables In Garlic Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta dish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the robust flavors of the sauce. For wine pairings, consider a medium-bodied red, such as Chianti, which pairs beautifully with the savory elements of this dish and many Italian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta and sauce together in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta With Chicken And Sausage Sauce contains roughly 531 calories, with 41g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (122% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (98% of the Daily Value), and protein (81% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2740mg per serving (119% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just cook the pasta fresh when you're ready to serve. This allows the pasta to retain its texture and flavor. Reheat the sauce gently before combining it with the pasta.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
While any pasta can work, longer shapes like fettuccine or pappardelle are ideal as they hold onto the sauce better. Alternatively, you can use penne or fusilli for a bite-sized option. The choice of pasta can subtly affect the overall experience, so choose one that you enjoy.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).