Chicken and Sausage Pasta

Introduction

Did you know that over 70% of home cooks seek out one-pan pasta dishes to simplify their weeknight routine? If you’re searching for a Chicken and Sausage Pasta that delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup, you’ve landed on the perfect recipe. This dish masterfully combines tender chicken, smoky kielbasa, and vibrant spinach in a light, velvety cream sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels indulgent yet comes together in about the same time it takes to watch your favorite sitcom. Forget the takeout menus—this all-in-one meal is designed to become a reliable star in your weekly rotation, pleasing even the pickiest eaters with its hearty, satisfying profile.

Ingredients List

Gathering high-quality ingredients is the first step to an unforgettable meal. Here’s what you’ll need, along with smart substitutions and notes on why each component matters.

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Cut into 1-inch cubes. Thighs offer a richer, more forgiving flavor and stay juicier.
• 12 oz smoked kielbasa sausage – Sliced into ½-inch rounds. The smoky, garlicky notes are key. Substitute with andouille for heat or a turkey smoked sausage for a lighter option.
• 12 oz dried pasta – Penne, fusilli, or farfalle work best. Their shapes trap the creamy sauce beautifully.
• 5 oz fresh baby spinach – About 5 large handfuls. It wilts down dramatically, adding color and nutrients.
• 1 medium yellow onion – Diced. This forms the aromatic base of the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic – Minced. Fresh is best for that pungent, fragrant kick.
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth – Use low-sodium to control the salt level.
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half – Heavy cream creates a luxuriously silky sauce. For a lighter version, see alternatives below.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated melts better and adds a salty, nutty depth.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For a subtle background warmth.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – To taste.

Timing

At just 40 minutes from start to finish, this Chicken and Sausage Pasta is a true weeknight warrior. Compared to the average pasta recipe that might require separate sauce preparation and longer simmering times, this streamlined version uses a one-pan (plus pot for pasta) method that shaves off precious minutes. The active cook time is focused and efficient, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy the meal with your family.

A creamy, comforting bowl of Chicken and Sausage Pasta, ready in under 40 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Success in the kitchen starts with mise en place. Cube your chicken, slice the kielbasa, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out your broth, cream, and seasonings. Have your spinach and grated Parmesan ready to go. This prep work makes the cooking process flow seamlessly and prevents any frantic searching mid-sauté.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate. Add the sliced kielbasa to the same skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned and some fat has rendered. Remove the sausage to the plate with the chicken.

Step 3: Build the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet (those browned bits are flavor gold!), add the remaining tablespoon of oil if needed. Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion. Cook for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, cooking for just 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to package directions for al dente texture. Reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. This water is a magical sauce-thickening and loosening agent you might need later.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Back to the skillet: reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce warm through gently for 2 minutes—do not let it boil vigorously. Stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. Add the cooked chicken and sausage back to the pan, along with all their juices. Fold in the fresh spinach in batches until it wilts into the sauce. Finally, add the drained pasta and toss everything together until every piece is coated in the luscious cream sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Nutritional Information

The following estimates are for one serving (approximately 1/6th of the recipe), made with heavy cream and regular kielbasa. Values can vary based on specific brands and ingredient swaps.

• Calories: ~580 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 4g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 115mg
• Sodium: 850mg

Healthier Alternatives

You can easily lighten up this dish without sacrificing its soul-satisfying creaminess. Here are my top nutrition-friendly swaps:

• Cream Swap: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even canned light coconut milk for a dairy-free option. For a rich yet lower-calorie sauce, blend 1 cup of low-fat cottage cheese or Greek yogurt with ½ cup of broth until smooth, then stir in at the end off the heat.
• Protein Swap: Use lean chicken breast and a turkey or chicken smoked sausage. The flavor profile remains smoky and satisfying with significantly less saturated fat.
• Pasta Swap: Opt for a high-fiber, high-protein pasta like chickpea, lentil, or whole wheat. These add nutrients and help you feel fuller longer.
• Boost Veggies: Double the spinach or add other quick-cooking vegetables like sliced mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas with the onions to increase fiber and vitamins.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is a complete meal on its own, but a few thoughtful accompaniments can elevate your dinner table. Serve it piping hot in shallow bowls. A simple side salad with a sharp vinaigrette (like balsamic or lemon) cuts through the richness beautifully. For a touch of rustic charm, offer a basket of warm, crusty garlic bread or focaccia for mopping up every last drop of sauce. If you’re serving a crowd, a light, crisp white wine like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully.

Common Mistakes

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cubed chicken cooks quickly. Remove it from the pan as soon as it’s no longer pink inside to keep it tender and juicy.
• Boiling the Cream Sauce: Adding cream to high heat can cause it to separate or curdle. Always reduce the heat to low when incorporating dairy for a smooth, velvety texture.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: That starchy, salty water is a chef’s secret weapon. It helps bind the sauce to the pasta and adjust consistency. Always reserve a cup.
• Underseasoning: Pasta dishes require bold seasoning. Taste and adjust at the end, remembering that Parmesan adds saltiness. Don’t be shy with black pepper and herbs.

Storing Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The pasta will absorb the sauce as it sits. To reheat, add a splash of broth, milk, or water to a skillet over medium-low heat and stir gently until warmed through. This restores the saucy consistency. For best texture, I do not recommend freezing this dish, as the cream sauce can separate and the pasta may become mushy upon thawing.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Sausage Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a reliable, flavor-packed solution for busy evenings. With its perfect balance of protein, carbs, and veggies in a creamy, dreamy sauce, it checks all the boxes for a family-friendly dinner that feels special. I hope it earns a permanent spot in your recipe collection.

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