Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe

If you're looking for a comforting, creamy, and flavor-packed meal that's easy to make, this Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta recipe is exactly what you need. Loaded with tender chicken, rich Boursin cheese, and al dente pasta, it’s a quick yet indulgent dish perfect for weeknight dinners or even special occasions. Read on to discover how you can create this delightful meal at home with easy-to-follow steps, tips, and variations. Don’t miss out on the presentation ideas and common mistakes to avoid to ensure your dish is picture-perfect and bursting with flavor.

What is Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta?

Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta is a delectable pasta dish featuring succulent pieces of chicken tossed in a velvety, garlicky, and herb-infused Boursin cheese sauce. The Boursin cheese gives this pasta an extra creamy texture and bold flavors, transforming a simple pasta and chicken combo into something extraordinary. Boursin cheese is a soft, creamy cheese made with garlic, herbs, and other seasonings, making it a one-step solution for an indulgent sauce. Combined with perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.

Ingredients List for Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta

To make this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Chicken Breasts – 2 medium-sized boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
2. Pasta – 12 oz of your favorite pasta. Penne, fettuccine, or rotini work well.
3. Boursin Cheese – 1 package (5.2 oz) of Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese.
4. Heavy Cream – 1 cup of heavy cream for that extra creamy sauce consistency.
5. Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons of olive oil for cooking the chicken.
6. Butter – 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter for added richness.
7. Garlic – 2 cloves of minced garlic to enhance the garlic flavor from the Boursin cheese.
8. Chicken Broth – ½ cup of chicken broth to help create the sauce and add more depth of flavor.
9. Parmesan Cheese – ¼ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to boost the cheesy flavor.
10. Fresh Parsley – 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley for garnish.
11. Salt and Pepper – To taste for seasoning the chicken and the pasta.

Substitutions and Variations

There are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to fit your dietary preferences and tastes. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Protein Substitutes: If you prefer a different protein, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Pasta Variations: While penne or fettuccine are great choices, you can use any pasta type you like, such as spaghetti, farfalle, or even whole-grain pasta.
• Boursin Cheese Flavors: If you want to switch things up, try using a different Boursin cheese flavor like Shallot & Chive or Pepper & Herbs for a slightly different twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, you can substitute Boursin cheese with a dairy-free garlic and herb spread and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream.
• Add Vegetables: Add some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to introduce a pop of color and extra nutrients to the dish.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

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

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper on both sides.
• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
• Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Set aside the cooked chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

• While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

• In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
• Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes.
• Add the Boursin cheese and stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let the sauce thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine Everything

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy Boursin sauce.
• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
• Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, to taste.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Transfer the Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta to serving plates or a large serving dish.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Cook it just until it's golden brown and no longer pink inside.
2. Burning the Garlic: Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing. Burnt garlic can give the sauce a bitter taste.
3. Not Using Enough Salt in Pasta Water: Always salt your pasta water generously. This step is crucial for seasoning the pasta and making the overall dish more flavorful.
4. Skipping the Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining. It can help adjust the sauce's consistency if it gets too thick.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta

This dish is best served immediately after preparing to enjoy the creaminess of the sauce at its peak. Plate the pasta on a wide, shallow dish to showcase the rich, creamy sauce coating the chicken and pasta. If serving for a dinner party, place the dish in a large pasta bowl or platter so guests can help themselves.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta

• Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• For added texture and crunch, you can top the pasta with crispy fried onions or toasted breadcrumbs.
• Add a lemon wedge on the side for a fresh citrusy contrast, allowing diners to squeeze some over their pasta.

Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe Tips

• Preheat the Skillet: Always heat your skillet before adding oil and chicken to get a nice golden crust on the chicken pieces.
• Warm the Boursin Cheese: Let the Boursin cheese come to room temperature before adding it to the sauce so it melts quickly and smoothly.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan often doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated. Opt for fresh Parmesan to ensure the sauce stays creamy.
• Make It Ahead: You can make the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add more chicken broth or reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, while Boursin cheese adds unique flavor and creaminess, you can substitute it with cream cheese or a garlic and herb-flavored soft cheese. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta?
A: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the creamy sauce may separate when reheated. However, you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. Ensure that your other ingredients, like chicken broth, are also gluten-free.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes would be great additions to this dish for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

This Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Whether you're whipping it up for a quick weeknight meal or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to impress. With easy-to-follow instructions, customizable variations, and helpful tips, you’re set to create a pasta dish that everyone will love. Give it a try, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

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