Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe

If you love rich, creamy pasta dishes with bold flavors, this Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. With tender chicken, soft cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is the perfect mix of comfort food and gourmet flavors. Whether you're preparing a cozy weeknight meal or an elegant dinner for friends, this dish delivers with its creamy texture and mouthwatering taste. Read on to discover how to make this delicious pasta from scratch, along with all the tips and tricks to perfect it!

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What is Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta?

Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta is a creamy pasta dish made with succulent chicken breasts, soft Boursin cheese, and your favorite type of pasta. Boursin cheese is a soft, herbed French cheese that melts beautifully into sauces, giving them a rich, tangy flavor. Combined with seasoned chicken and pasta, this dish offers a restaurant-quality meal that you can easily make at home. Its creamy consistency and bold flavors make it an excellent choice for cheese lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients List for Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta

To get started with this creamy pasta dish, you'll need a handful of ingredients that are easy to find at most grocery stores. Here's what you’ll need:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs Cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your preferred type)
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Ingredients List for Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Sauce

The secret to this recipe’s deliciousness lies in the rich, creamy sauce. The Boursin cheese melts smoothly, creating a luxurious and flavorful sauce. Here's a breakdown of the sauce ingredients:

• Boursin Cheese: The star of the show, adding creamy texture and herbal notes.
• Garlic: Adds a deep, savory flavor to the sauce, balancing the richness of the cheese.
• Chicken Broth: Provides moisture and helps create a silky sauce without making it too heavy.
• Heavy Cream: Ensures the sauce has a velvety, rich consistency that clings to the pasta.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Adds a bit of heat and contrast to the creamy sauce, if desired.

Substitutions and Variations

If you want to modify this recipe or cater to dietary restrictions, here are some substitution ideas:

• Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta for a healthier version. You can also switch up the shape of the pasta—penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well.
• Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a different flavor profile.
• Boursin Cheese: If you can’t find Boursin cheese, you can substitute it with cream cheese or goat cheese, though the flavor may differ slightly.
• Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrients and color.
• Low-Calorie Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat content, or opt for a light cream cheese instead of Boursin.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it's time to start cooking! Follow these steps to make your Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Once cooled, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the broth simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the Boursin Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Boursin cheese, letting it melt into the broth. Add heavy cream and grated Parmesan, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
6. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Stir in the sliced chicken, and let everything cook together for 2-3 minutes to heat through.
7. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for garnish and, if you like, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

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

This dish comes together quickly, but these steps will ensure a perfect result:

1. Prepping: Start by prepping your ingredients—mince the garlic, measure out your cream and broth, and season your chicken.
2. Searing the Chicken: This step ensures that the chicken gets a golden crust, locking in its juices while adding flavor to the sauce.
3. Building the Sauce: The key to a great sauce is layering flavors. Start with the garlic, then deglaze with broth before adding the creamy Boursin cheese and heavy cream.
4. Combining the Elements: After making the sauce, combine everything in the skillet to allow the flavors to meld together. The pasta will soak up the sauce, making every bite flavorful.
5. Garnishing: Garnish with parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Red pepper flakes add heat, if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: Dry chicken can ruin the texture of the dish. Make sure to cook the chicken just until done, and let it rest before slicing.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly, and burnt garlic will give the dish a bitter taste. Only cook it for about 1 minute before adding the broth.
• Curdling the Cream: When adding cream, make sure the heat is low to prevent curdling.
• Undercooking or Overcooking the Pasta: Always cook pasta to al dente for the best texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a truly restaurant-worthy experience, presentation is key. Here are some ideas for serving and presenting your Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta:

1. Plating: Serve the pasta on a large, shallow plate, twirling the pasta into a neat pile in the center.
2. Garnishing: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top, along with freshly chopped parsley or basil.
3. Serving Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to complement the rich, creamy pasta.
4. Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce.

How to Serve Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta

This dish is best served immediately while the sauce is still warm and creamy. You can also pair it with some crusty garlic bread or a side salad to make it a complete meal. For a fancier touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top and drizzle with a bit of olive oil for added flavor and shine.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta

When it comes to presenting your dish, consider the following ideas:

• Individual Portions: Serve individual portions on large white plates for a clean, elegant presentation.
• Family-Style: Serve the pasta in a large bowl in the center of the table for everyone to help themselves.
• Garnish Creatively: Use fresh herbs or edible flowers like chive blossoms for a pop of color and extra visual appeal.

Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe Tips

• Cooking Chicken Evenly: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
• Balancing Flavors: If the sauce feels too rich, add a splash of lemon juice to brighten up the dish.
• Making It Ahead: You can make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat and add the pasta and chicken before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and combine everything.

What is Boursin cheese, and can I use a substitute?
Boursin is a soft, spreadable cheese flavored with garlic and herbs. If you can’t find it, substitute with cream cheese or goat cheese mixed with garlic and herbs.

Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Shrimp, salmon, or even crispy bacon work great as substitutes for chicken.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.

Conclusion

Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta is a rich and creamy dish that brings gourmet flavors to your home kitchen. With tender chicken, a velvety cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it's a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe is a surefire hit. Give it a try, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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