This creamy chicken sausage pasta features crispy chicken sausage, al dente pasta, and tender broccoli all in a tomato cream sauce. With lean chicken sausage and a simple cream sauce, you can have a healthy meal on the table in 20 minutes.
For the creamiest sauce, reserve a cup of pasta water before draining—it helps bind everything together perfectly!
Looking for another delicious pasta recipe or more one pot recipes? Next time, try our one pot lemon chicken and asparagus , cajun sausage pasta, or one pot creamy cajun chicken pasta.
Creamy Chicken Sausage Pasta is my 20-Minute Weeknight Hack
This is my back pocket meal when I need something fast that I know my kids will eat. Here’s why I love it:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich & Creamy Sauce: Marinara and cream make the ultimate flavor combo.
- Protein-Packed: Chicken sausage adds a boost of lean protein.
- Veggie Loaded: Broccoli blends into the sauce while adding fiber and nutrients.
- Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Options: Easily customizable for any dietary needs.
Need more creamy pasta in your life? Try chicken alfredo gnocchi or garlic parmesan chicken pasta.
Ingredient Notes
- Penne pasta: or any short pasta. My favorite gluten-free pasta brand is Jovial.
- Italian chicken sausage: I like Italian-style chicken sausage for this recipe, but you can switch up the flavor of chicken sausage or type of sausage.
- Marinara sauce: I used Rao’s, but any favorite pasta sauce works.
- Heavy cream: cashew cream or coconut milk are great dairy-free options.
- Broccoli florets: add a nice crunch and color to the dish.
These are a few notes about some of the ingredients. Skip to the recipe card for full ingredients and amounts.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Pasta
Step 1. Cook the chicken sausage: Sear the chicken in a skillet with olive oil until golden and crispy. Transfer to a clean plate or bowl.
Step 2. Make the Creamy Pasta Sauce. Cook the onion and garlic, stir in the seasoning, then add the tomato pasta, pasta sauce, and cream.
Step 3. Mix Together and Serve. Stir in the cooked pasta, cooked chicken sausage, and add a splash of pasta water or chicken broth if needed. Serve with parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
What to Serve with Chicken Sausage Pasta
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Side Salad: Try a simple kale apple salad or shaved brussels sprout salad.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted mini peppers, french green beans, or crispy carrot fries.
Recipe FAQs
Chicken sausage can be a healthy option, but it depends on the brand and ingredients. Compared to traditional pork sausage, chicken sausage is often lower in fat and calories while still being a good source of protein. However, some varieties may contain added sugars, fillers, and high sodium levels, so it’s important to check the ingredient list and nutrition label. Look for options with minimal ingredients, no nitrates or preservatives, and lower sodium content for the healthiest choice!
Yes! Turkey, pork, or plant-based sausage all work well in this recipe.
Recipe Variations
- Make it Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and skip the parmesan.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta—chickpea or brown rice pasta works great!
- Extra Protein: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken for a protein boost.
- More Veggies: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Freeze: Not recommended due to the creamy sauce, which may separate.
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or cream.
If you make this recipe, I’d love for you to give it a star rating ★ below. You can also tag me on Instagram so I can see it!
More Easy Pasta Recipes
Creamy Chicken Sausage Pasta
Save this Recipe!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta gluten-free pasta if needed
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 12 ounces (4 links) Italian chicken sausage sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter or more olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- 3 Tablespoons tomato paste
- 24 ounces Marinara sauce I used Rao’s
- 1 cup heavy cream coconut cream, or cashew cream
- 3 cups broccoli florets chopped small (1 large head of broccoli)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- To Serve: Freshly grated parmesan cheese, fresh basil, fresh thyme
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. When it’s done, reserve 1 cup of pasta water then drain. Do not rinse the pasta.12 ounces penne pasta
- While the pasta is cooking, make the pasta sauce. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot and shimmering, add the chicken sausage and cook, stirring frequently, for 4-5 minutes, or until it’s heated through and browned on each side. Transfer it to a clean plate or cutting board.1 Tablespoon olive oil, 12 ounces (4 links) Italian chicken sausage
- Add the butter to the same skillet over medium heat and stir to melt. Add the onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until translucent. Add the garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes and cook and soften until the garlic is fragrant, 1-2 minutes.1 Tablespoon unsalted butter, 1 small yellow onion, 3 cloves garlic, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Stir in the tomato paste, marinara, and cream and stir until smooth. Add the broccoli florets and stir to coat it in the sauce. Simmer the sauce and broccoli for 5 minutes or until it reduces and thickens to your liking. Adjust the heat if it’s starting to boil beyond a gentle bubble around the edges.3 Tablespoons tomato paste, 24 ounces Marinara sauce, 1 cup heavy cream, 3 cups broccoli florets
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the pasta and cooked sausage until combined and the sauce is coating the pasta. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce gets too thick. Serve with parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Notes
Video
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy.
