Black Pepper & Basil Chicken Sausage Bowl

Name: Black Pepper & Basil Chicken Sausage Bowl
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: European, Italian, Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil (plus more if needed); 16 oz (approx. 6 links) black pepper and basil chicken sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch thick coins; 1/2 medium red onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 medium zucchini or yellow squash, diced into 1/2-inch pieces; 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet corn (if using frozen, no need to thaw); 1 bell pepper (any color, I like orange), diced into 1/2-inch pieces; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 4 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup chicken broth (or bone broth); 1/2 lemon, juiced (approx. 1-2 tbsp); 1 tsp olive oil; Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat); 1 cup (dry) small pasta (such as orzo, ditalini, or small shells) OR 2 cups (dry) white or brown rice; Freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil leaves, torn; Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

7 steps

Cook:30min

This vibrant and flavorful bowl features savory chicken sausage, fresh summer vegetables, and a light lemon-garlic sauce, all built on an aromatic base of red onion and garlic, seasoned with Italian herbs. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.

Updated at: Thu, 24 Jul 2025 00:24:10 GMT

Nutrition balance score

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Ingredients

4 servings

For the Base & Sausage:

1 Tbspolive oil

plus more if needed

16 ozblack pepper and basil chicken sausage

sliced into 1/2-inch thick coins

0.5red onion

medium, finely chopped

2cloves garlic

minced

Instructions

Step 1

Cook Pasta/Rice: Cook your chosen pasta or rice according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2

Cook Sausage: While the pasta/rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until nicely browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside on a plate.

Step 3

Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. If needed, add a touch more olive oil to the pan. Add the chopped red onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4

Add Vegetables & Seasoning: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced zucchini/yellow squash, sweet corn, and diced bell pepper to the pan. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 5

Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of olive oil, and optional red pepper flakes. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate all the flavor. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce slightly reduces.

Step 6

Combine & Finish: Return the cooked chicken sausage to the pan with the vegetables and sauce. Stir to combine. If using, add the fresh spinach or arugula and stir until just wilted, about 1 minute.

Step 7

Serve: Divide the cooked pasta or rice among serving bowls. Spoon the chicken sausage and vegetable mixture generously over the top. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, torn fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, if desired.