If you are craving a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together in a flash, this Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe is here to steal the spotlight in your kitchen. It brilliantly marries tender chicken pieces with a luxuriously creamy Boursin cheese sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. The garlicky, herb-infused Boursin cheese creates a sauce that’s rich without being heavy, delivering incredible flavor and a velvety texture that makes every bite irresistible. This recipe is perfect for weeknights when you want comfort food with a touch of elegance and guaranteed smiles around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe plays an important role, keeping things simple yet full of flavor. Together, they create a beautiful balance of creamy, savory, and fresh elements that make this dish truly special.
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli): Choose shapes that hold the sauce well for maximum flavor in every bite.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Bite-sized pieces ensure quick and even cooking, keeping the chicken juicy and tender.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps to brown the chicken perfectly.
- 4 oz Boursin cheese (garlic & herb flavor): This is the star ingredient, bringing a creamy texture and bold garlic-herb taste.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Lightens the intensity of the cheese and creates a dreamy sauce consistency.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth that complements the Boursin beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fresh, aromatic kick.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together perfectly.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a burst of color and a bright, fresh finish.
How to Make Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. This step is crucial because the pasta’s texture forms the foundation for this dish, holding the creamy sauce in every nook and cranny. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook them until they’re golden brown with a lovely sear and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in juicy flavor and adds a beautiful texture contrast to the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with your cooked chicken and sauté for about one minute until wonderfully fragrant. Garlic is a game-changer here, introducing a savory, aromatic layer that elevates the entire pasta dish.
Step 4: Create the Boursin Cream Sauce
Turn the heat down to low, then stir in the Boursin cheese and heavy cream. Watch as the cheese melts into the cream, transforming into a luscious, thick sauce that cloaks the chicken in rich, garlicky goodness. Stir gently to blend everything together.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now it’s time to bring it all together. Add the cooked pasta and grated Parmesan cheese right into the skillet. Toss everything carefully to ensure each piece of pasta and chicken is coated with the creamy sauce. The Parmesan adds a wonderful depth and slightly salty finish.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
Give your dish a taste, then season with salt and pepper as needed. This final step ensures the flavors are perfectly balanced and tailored to your preference.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top to add a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness. Serve the pasta warm, straight from the skillet, for a comforting meal that’s sure to impress.
How to Serve Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A fresh handful of chopped parsley is the go-to garnish for this dish, lending a lovely green contrast and a subtle herbal note. For an extra touch, consider adding freshly cracked black pepper or even a sprinkle of chili flakes if you adore a little heat alongside the richness.
Side Dishes
Pair this Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also make excellent companions, adding bright color and texture in each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this pasta in individual shallow bowls, sprinkled with parsley and Parmesan on top for a cozy, restaurant-quality feel. For a fun twist, garnish with toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil to add a nutty aroma and sparkle to the plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce coated on the pasta helps maintain moisture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to keep the pasta and chicken separate from any fresh garnishes. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce’s creamy texture. Avoid microwaving without stirring, as this could cause the sauce to separate.
FAQs
Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Penne and fusilli work wonderfully because their shapes hold the sauce well, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Just adjust cooking time according to the package.
What can I substitute for Boursin cheese?
If Boursin is unavailable, try using cream cheese mixed with fresh garlic and herbs, or a soft goat cheese with garlic. The texture won’t be identical, but it will still deliver creamy and flavorful results.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, but the texture of the pasta might change slightly after freezing. To preserve quality, freeze the leftovers without fresh garnishes and reheat slowly.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Chicken thighs will add an even richer flavor and remain tender. Just make sure to cut them into similar bite-sized pieces and adjust cooking time until fully cooked.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute Boursin for a dairy-free herbed cheese spread and use coconut or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind the flavor profile will shift a bit but still be delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe is a true kitchen winner — delightfully creamy, packed with flavor, and surprisingly simple to make. It’s one of those dishes you’ll want to keep in your rotation for busy nights or when you want to treat yourself with minimal fuss. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a beloved favorite, perfect for sharing with friends and family who appreciate good food made with love.
Print
Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-American Fusion
Description
A creamy and flavorful Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta dish made with tender chicken, rich Boursin cheese, and a luscious garlic herb sauce, perfectly coating al dente pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 oz Boursin cheese (garlic & herb flavor)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to be added to the sauce later.
- Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season them with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Melt Cheese and Add Cream: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the Boursin cheese and heavy cream, mixing well until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce.
- Add Pasta and Parmesan: Add the cooked pasta and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Season and Taste: Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt and pepper if needed, ensuring balanced flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute penne or fusilli pasta with any short pasta of choice.
- For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach can add extra flavor and nutrition.
- Ensure not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
