Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe

Are you ready to impress with a quick, creamy, and utterly irresistible pasta dish? This Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful garlic, herbs, and the unique creaminess of Boursin cheese to create a restaurant-worthy meal right at home. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is easy to follow, incredibly delicious, and sure to please the whole family. Dive into this guide for a step-by-step approach to making the perfect Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta!

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What is Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta?

Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta is a creamy pasta dish featuring pieces of seasoned chicken breast, pasta, and a creamy sauce made with Boursin cheese. Boursin cheese, a soft and flavorful cheese blended with garlic and herbs, adds an amazing richness and depth of flavor to the pasta. Combined with tender chicken and al dente pasta, this dish is comfort food at its finest. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a fantastic option for both novice and seasoned cooks who want a dish that’s both simple and luxurious.

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Ingredients List for Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta

Pasta and Sauce Base

• 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work well)
• 1 cup reserved pasta water (optional, to adjust sauce consistency)
• 1 package (5.2 ounces) Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs flavor)
• 1 cup heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added richness)

Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter, for cooking the chicken)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried basil and oregano)

Additional Flavor and Garnishes

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup diced onion (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Freshly cracked black pepper (for serving)

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Substitutions and Variations

• Boursin Cheese Substitute: If you can’t find Boursin, try using cream cheese mixed with a bit of garlic powder and dried herbs.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute Boursin with a vegan cream cheese and replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk for a similar creamy texture.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes instead for a delicious vegetarian pasta.
• Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap in whole wheat pasta for extra fiber, or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Extra Veggies: Try adding bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to boost the dish’s nutritional value.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the chicken breasts, mince the garlic, and chop the onion (if using). Gather all other ingredients so they’re ready to go when needed.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining, then set pasta aside.
3. Season and Sear the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6–8 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté Garlic and Onion: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until they become fragrant and the onions are softened.
5. Make the Boursin Cheese Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low, then add the heavy cream and Boursin cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and blends with the cream, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
6. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, stirring everything together until well-coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
7. Add Parmesan and Season: Stir in the Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.

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

1. Start by Cooking Pasta: Follow the package directions to cook pasta al dente. Drain and set aside, but don’t forget to reserve some pasta water for adjusting the sauce later.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs. Cook in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown, about 6–8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant, then add heavy cream and Boursin cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet with the sauce, tossing until everything is coated.
5. Adjust Consistency and Seasoning: Add a splash of pasta water if needed and sprinkle with Parmesan. Stir to combine, and finish with fresh herbs and a crack of black pepper.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Always cook pasta until al dente to avoid mushy results. Remember, it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the sauce.
• Skipping the Reserved Pasta Water: This starchy water is a great way to thin the sauce without losing flavor.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly and can turn bitter if it burns, so watch it closely when sautéing.
• Using Cold Ingredients: For the best creamy consistency, make sure the heavy cream and Boursin cheese are at room temperature before adding to the skillet.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta is a visually appealing dish, especially when garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Here are some tips to make your meal look restaurant-worthy:

• Use Fresh Herbs: Top with chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
• Add Parmesan Shavings: Freshly shaved Parmesan on top adds both flavor and visual appeal.
• Serve in a Shallow Bowl: This helps the sauce spread evenly, giving a rich look to each serving.
• Crack Black Pepper on Top: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a gourmet touch.

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How to Serve Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta

Serve this pasta dish hot, ideally right after cooking for the best creamy texture. Pair it with a fresh green salad and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. This pasta also goes wonderfully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it.

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Presentation Ideas for Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta

• Rustic Style: Serve in a large family-style bowl with herbs sprinkled generously on top.
• Individual Plates: Plate the pasta in individual bowls and top each with Parmesan, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Garnish with Cherry Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes on top for a pop of color and acidity.

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Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe Tips

• Use High-Quality Cheese: Boursin cheese is the star of the sauce, so use a good quality one for the best flavor.
• Add Veggies for Color and Nutrition: Toss in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to make the dish heartier and more nutritious.
• Warm Your Ingredients: To ensure a smooth, creamy sauce, let the heavy cream and Boursin cheese come to room temperature before adding them to the skillet.
• Adjust Seasoning Carefully: The Boursin cheese is already flavorful, so taste the sauce before adding extra salt or spices.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, but the sauce may thicken as it sits. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy consistency.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese? While Boursin is ideal for its unique flavor, cream cheese with added garlic and herbs can work as a substitute.

3. What’s the best pasta to use? Penne, fettuccine, and rigatoni work well, but any pasta that can hold the creamy sauce will be delicious.

4. Can I freeze Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta? This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as cream-based sauces can separate when reheated after freezing.

5. How can I make it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.

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Conclusion

This Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta recipe is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The unique taste of Boursin cheese elevates this pasta to a whole new level, while tender chicken and aromatic herbs bring it all together. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish will make everyone come back for seconds. So, grab your ingredients, follow our step-by-step guide, and treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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