Are you ready to whip up a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat? My Chicken Sausage Pesto Pasta is not only packed wiht flavor but also super easy to customize! Join me as we dive into this flavorful recipe that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in—let’s get cooking!

Cook Time: 15

Prep Time: 10

Yields: 6

Calories: 477

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Sausage Pesto Pasta

When I’m whipping up a tasty dish like Chicken Sausage Pesto pasta, I love that it’s both simple and satisfying. The ingredients are easy to find, and each one adds a special touch to the dish. Hear’s what you’ll need:

1 (14.5-ounce) package of penne pasta: This pasta holds the sauce wonderfully.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and adding flavor.
1 pound fresh chicken sausage (casings removed): I prefer using chicken sausage for a lighter option, but feel free to try your favorite sausage!
⅓ cup diced onion: It adds a sweet, savory base to the dish.
1 tablespoon pesto: You can use store-bought or homemade; both bring a burst of flavor!
1 (14.5-ounce) can of petite diced tomatoes in juice: This will enrich the sauce and add a bit of acidity.
1 cup chicken broth: It gives the sauce depth and enhances flavor.
½ cup heavy cream: This makes the sauce creamy and dreamy.
¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese: For that delicious cheesy finish.

You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even switching up the type of pasta. That’s the beauty of this dish – it encourages your creativity!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Create Your Chicken Sausage Pesto Pasta

Now that we have our ingredients ready,let’s dive into the cooking process. I find that following these steps makes the preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt for flavor and toss in the penne pasta. Cook it for about 11 minutes or until it’s tender yet firm (al dente). Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.

Cook the Sausage and Onions: While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken sausage and diced onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. The smell will be incredible!

Add the Flavor: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the pesto,making sure it coats the sausage nicely. then, add the diced tomatoes (with thier juice) and chicken broth. Let this simmer for about 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Make It Creamy: Pour in the heavy cream and continue to simmer the sauce until it thickens to your liking, which should take another 5 to 10 minutes.

Combine Everything: Pour the sauce over your cooked pasta and mix it well. Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine, and then garnish with shredded Parmesan cheese.

And that’s it! You’ve just created a hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or impressing friends. Enjoy the savory flavors of your Chicken Sausage Pesto Pasta!

serving and Storage Information for Chicken Sausage Pesto Pasta

Once you’ve prepared your delicious Chicken Sausage Pesto Pasta, it’s time to think about serving and storing the leftovers. This dish is great for both family dinners and meal prep. Here’s how you can enjoy it to the fullest.

Serving suggestions

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. You can also top it with fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an added kick. If you’re planning to serve this dish at a gathering, consider offering a variety of cheeses, such as mozzarella or feta, on the side for guests to customize their plates.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which I often do because it’s so filling!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or a little cream to keep the pasta moist and creamy. Simply microwave it or heat it in a pan on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. Just place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will last for about 2-3 months. To reheat, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it on the stove or in the microwave.

Keeping these serving and storage tips in mind will help you savor your Chicken Sausage Pesto pasta long after you’ve made it!

Helpful Tips and troubleshooting for Perfect Chicken Sausage Pesto Pasta

Cooking is all about experimenting and adjusting to get that perfect dish. Here are some helpful tips and troubleshooting ideas to ensure your Chicken Sausage Pesto pasta turns out amazing every time.

Cooking Tips

Pasta Timing: Always check the pasta package for cooking times, as it can vary. Make sure to taste it a minute or two before the suggested cooking time to get your desired texture.
Sausage Choices: If you can’t find fresh chicken sausage, turkey sausage is a great option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it reaches 165°F.
Pesto Variations: if you’re feeling adventurous, try different pesto flavors like sun-dried tomato or even a spicy variant. you can also make your own by blending basil, garlic, nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil.

Troubleshooting

To Dry Sauce: If your sauce seems too thick after reheating, simply stir in a little more chicken broth or cream to reach the desired consistency.
Flavor Balance: If you find the dish lacking flavor, add a pinch of salt or pepper to enhance the overall taste. Fresh herbs can also brighten it up.
Veggie Add-ins: Want to make it heartier? Consider adding veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.Just sauté them along with the onions for a delicious boost in nutrition and flavor.

With these tips, you’ll navigate any hiccups and enhance your cooking experience! Enjoy creating your Chicken Sausage Pesto Pasta.