Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe

Are you craving a rich and creamy pasta dish that will have everyone asking for seconds? Look no further than this Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta recipe! This dish combines tender chicken, savory herbs, and the luxurious creaminess of Boursin cheese, creating an irresistible meal. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, this recipe is bound to impress. Keep reading to discover all the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for making this mouthwatering pasta dish perfect every time.

this Recipe

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What is Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta?

Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta is a flavorful and creamy pasta dish that features tender pieces of chicken and the unique, velvety texture of Boursin cheese. Boursin is a type of soft, herbed cheese originating from France. It melts beautifully into sauces, making it the perfect addition to pasta dishes. When combined with the chicken and your pasta of choice, you’ll have a decadent meal that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

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Ingredients List for Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta

To create this delicious Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

• Chicken breast (2 large pieces or about 1 pound)
• Boursin cheese (1 pack, about 5.2 oz, any flavor, but garlic and herb works best)
• Pasta of your choice (12 oz, like penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• Heavy cream (1 cup)
• Olive oil (2 tbsp)
• Garlic cloves (2 cloves, minced)
• Chicken broth (½ cup)
• Shallots (1 small, finely diced)
• Butter (2 tbsp)
• Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, grated)
• Fresh spinach (optional, 2 cups)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

These ingredients combine to make a luscious, restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen. The Boursin cheese, in particular, adds a unique herby flavor that sets this pasta recipe apart from traditional creamy pasta dishes.

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Ingredients List for Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta (Continued)

Along with the main ingredients, you can also add some optional extras to customize your dish:

• Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced, for an earthy flavor)
• Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved, for a fresh burst of flavor)
• Red pepper flakes (a pinch, for a touch of heat)
• Lemon zest (1 tsp, for brightness)
• White wine (¼ cup, as a substitute for chicken broth)

These additional ingredients can help elevate the dish to suit your personal tastes. Feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients to make this recipe your own.

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Substitutions and Variations

Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Chicken: You can swap chicken breast for chicken thighs for a richer flavor. You could also use rotisserie chicken or even turkey for a different twist.
• Pasta: Feel free to use gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta if you prefer a healthier option.
• Boursin Cheese: While the garlic and herb variety is most popular, you can also try the shallot and chive or cracked black pepper versions for different flavors. If you can’t find Boursin, you can use cream cheese with added herbs.
• Vegetarian option: Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Low-carb option: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash to make the dish lighter and low in carbs.

These substitutions and variations make this Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta versatile enough to suit different dietary needs and preferences.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken
   Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Pasta
   While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta of choice according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce Base
   In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and diced shallots, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Add Liquids
   Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine, if using) and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Add Boursin Cheese and Cream
   Reduce the heat to low and add the Boursin cheese to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cheese has melted into a smooth sauce. Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until thickened slightly.
6. Combine Everything
   Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy Boursin sauce. If you're adding spinach, toss it in now and cook until wilted. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

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

1. Season and cook the chicken. Make sure it is golden on the outside and juicy on the inside.
2. Cook your pasta of choice until al dente, ensuring it doesn't become mushy.
3. Create the sauce by sautéing aromatics like garlic and shallots, adding depth to the flavor.
4. Melt the Boursin cheese into the broth and cream, allowing it to become a rich and creamy sauce.
5. Toss everything together for a seamless and decadent pasta dish.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and won't hold up well in the creamy sauce.
• Not allowing the sauce to thicken: If you don't let the sauce simmer long enough, it may end up too runny. Be patient and let it thicken on low heat.
• Using too little seasoning: Don’t forget to season each component, especially the chicken and the sauce. Boursin cheese is flavorful, but adding extra salt, pepper, or herbs will elevate the entire dish.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving a beautiful dish like Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta. Here are some tips for serving:

1. Use large pasta bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and chicken pieces.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or other fresh herbs to add a pop of color and freshness.
3. Top with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor and sophistication.
4. Add a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal.

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How to Serve Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta

Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta is best served hot, right out of the skillet. You can serve it family-style by placing the skillet in the center of the table, or individually plate the pasta for a more formal dining experience. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon.

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Presentation Ideas for Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta

• Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with chopped parsley or basil.
• Add a lemon wedge on the side for a bright contrast in flavor.
• Top with a few slices of cherry tomatoes or a handful of arugula for a fresh, vibrant presentation.

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Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe Tips

• Cook the pasta last: Timing is key, so cook the pasta after the sauce is nearly done to ensure everything comes together hot and fresh.
• Reserve pasta water: This starchy water is perfect for adjusting the sauce consistency without diluting the flavor.
• Let the chicken rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain the juices.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While this dish is best served fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stove. Cook the pasta and chicken fresh for the best results.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta?
A: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish because the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Yes! Cream cheese or mascarpone can be used in place of Boursin, but the flavor will be different. You can also try adding shredded mozzarella for extra cheesiness.

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Conclusion

This Chicken Boursin Cheese Pasta recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that delivers rich, creamy, and satisfying flavors with minimal effort. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned pro, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Try it out tonight and enjoy the delicious combination of tender chicken, creamy Boursin cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta!

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