Smoky Chicken Sausage Pasta Skillet
This Smoky Chicken Sausage Pasta Skillet is a quick, one-pan wonder packed with bold flavors and hearty veggies for a comforting weeknight meal.
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife and cutting board
- Colander
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken sausage sliced
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 ounces, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- 1 cup spinach chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated, optional
- fresh basil for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Slice the chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic, and chop the spinach.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned and slightly crisp on the edges, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in the smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the dry penne pasta directly to the skillet, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and browned sausage. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sausage is heated through.
- If using, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the skillet and stir until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.
- Add extra veggies like zucchini or kale to boost nutrition and flavor.