Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe

Looking for a mouthwatering, creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful Boursin cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta? You’ve come to the right place! This Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta recipe is the perfect meal for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or when you just want to indulge in something utterly delicious. By following our step-by-step guide, you'll have a decadent dish ready in no time. Keep reading to learn all the tips and tricks to make this recipe a success, along with some creative variations and serving ideas.

this Recipe

What is Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta?

Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta is a delightful dish that marries the rich creaminess of Boursin cheese with the savory flavors of tender chicken and al dente pasta. Boursin is a soft, spreadable cheese typically flavored with garlic and herbs, giving the pasta a rich, flavorful sauce without much effort. This recipe is an ideal choice for cheese lovers, pasta enthusiasts, and anyone craving comfort food with a gourmet touch.

Ingredients List for Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta

To prepare this flavorful dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into strips or bite-sized pieces)
• 8 oz of pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your preferred pasta)
• 1 package of Boursin cheese (5.2 oz, garlic and fine herbs variety)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Optional Ingredients

• Spinach or kale (for added greens)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
• Sun-dried tomatoes (for a tangy burst of flavor)

Substitutions and Variations

Don’t have certain ingredients or looking to make this recipe your own? Here are some easy substitutions and variations you can try:

• Chicken Alternatives: Swap the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different protein.
• Cheese Options: If you can't find Boursin cheese, try using herbed cream cheese or goat cheese instead for a similar creamy texture and flavor.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and whole wheat pasta for a lighter yet still delicious meal.
• Add Vegetables: Bulk up the dish with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the cooking process! Follow these easy steps to prepare your Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta.

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions (typically 8-12 minutes). Drain the pasta once it's al dente and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Garlic and Onion: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor. Next, add the heavy cream, Boursin cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the Boursin cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
5. Season the Sauce: Stir in the Italian seasoning, and adjust the sauce with salt and pepper as needed. If you’re adding any optional ingredients like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, now is the time to toss them in.
6. Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once everything is well-combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

How to Cook Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add a generous pinch of salt, and cook your pasta of choice. Aim for al dente, which means the pasta should be firm to the bite. Overcooking the pasta can make the dish less enjoyable since the pasta will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce later.

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken

Ensure your chicken is properly seasoned before cooking. Adding a bit of salt and pepper beforehand enhances the chicken's flavor and helps it develop a nice crust when seared. Cooking the chicken in batches prevents overcrowding the pan, which can cause the chicken to steam instead of browning.

Step 3: Creating the Sauce

The secret to a great Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta lies in the sauce. Boursin cheese has a wonderfully creamy consistency, but you’ll want to be sure to stir the sauce gently and consistently so that everything blends evenly. Be cautious not to let the sauce boil as this can cause the cream to curdle.

Step 4: Combining Pasta and Sauce

Once the sauce is smooth and the chicken is perfectly cooked, adding the pasta is the final key step. Be sure to toss the pasta well to coat every piece. If the sauce seems too thick, you can always add a little reserved pasta water or more chicken broth to loosen it up.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: This can result in dry, tough chicken. Stick to cooking the chicken over medium heat and remove it as soon as it's done.
• Curdling the Sauce: Heating cream too quickly can lead to curdling. Always simmer the sauce gently and avoid high heat.
• Undercooking the Pasta: Make sure the pasta is al dente, as it will continue cooking slightly when combined with the hot sauce.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A delicious dish deserves a beautiful presentation! Here are some ideas to make your Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta look as good as it tastes:

How to Serve Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta

Serve the pasta immediately after cooking, while the sauce is still creamy and hot. Use shallow bowls to showcase the rich sauce, and top each serving with a fresh sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and parsley.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, chives, or basil on top for a pop of color.
• Serve with Garlic Bread: Add some homemade garlic bread or a crusty baguette on the side for dipping into the extra sauce.
• Add a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the pasta dish.

Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic, herbs, and high-quality chicken for the best flavors.
• Reserve Pasta Water: If your sauce is too thick, a little pasta water can help achieve the perfect consistency.
• Don't Skip the Parmesan: The added Parmesan cheese provides extra richness and depth to the dish, so don't skip it!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare parts of it in advance. You can cook the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time, storing them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Can I freeze Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta?

It’s not recommended to freeze cream-based sauces like this one as they can separate when thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and combine it with a freshly made sauce when needed.

What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

If your sauce becomes too thick, add a little chicken broth or reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

What type of pasta works best with this dish?

Penne, fettuccine, or bow-tie pasta work wonderfully for this recipe as they hold the sauce well.

Conclusion

Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta is a luxurious, comforting dish that's surprisingly easy to make. Whether you're serving it for a special occasion or just a weeknight meal, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Follow these simple steps, and don’t be afraid to make your own substitutions and variations. With the right ingredients and techniques, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready in no time! So go ahead—grab your ingredients and get cooking. You won’t be disappointed!

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