When it comes to weeknight dinners that feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen, this Chicken with Boursin Sauce is a top contender. With its velvety, herbaceous sauce and juicy chicken, it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re dining out at a fancy bistro, even if you’re still in your cozy sweatpants.
This recipe isn’t just about incredible flavor—it’s also about simplicity. In less than 30 minutes, you can whip up a dinner that’s elegant enough for guests but comforting enough for a Tuesday night. Let me walk you through how to make this irresistible meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish checks all the boxes:
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy days.
- Creamy Goodness: The Boursin cheese melts into a luxurious sauce with garlic and fine herbs.
- Customizable: Add your favorite sides or tweak the spices to your liking.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist this creamy chicken.
Let’s Talk Ingredients
You’ll need just a handful of items to create this magic:
- Chicken Breasts: Lean and protein-packed, boneless, and skinless are best for this recipe.
- Olive Oil or Butter: For that golden sear.
- Chicken Broth and Heavy Cream: The foundation of our luscious sauce.
- Boursin Cheese: The star of the show, bringing all those garlicky, herby notes.
- Seasonings: A simple blend of salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika.
- Parsley: For a pop of freshness at the end.
Step 1: Season Like a Pro
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This little trick ensures a good sear. Then, sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re feeling a bit adventurous. The paprika isn’t required, but it adds a subtle smokiness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Step 2: The Golden Sear
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your olive oil or butter. Once it’s hot, lay the chicken breasts in the pan. Let them sizzle undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side until they develop that gorgeous golden crust. Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked yet—they’ll finish later in the sauce. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Deglaze and Build the Sauce
Here’s where the magic really starts. Lower the heat to medium, then pour in your chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. These bits are pure flavor gold and will infuse the sauce with richness.
Once deglazed, stir in the heavy cream and Boursin cheese. Keep whisking until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. The aroma alone at this stage is enough to make your mouth water.
By now, your kitchen is likely filled with the irresistible aroma of creamy garlic and herbs wafting from your skillet. Let’s dive into the next steps to bring this dish together with style.
Step 4: Simmer the Chicken
With your sauce bubbling gently, it’s time to return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet. Nestle them into the sauce, ensuring each piece is partially submerged to soak up all that creamy goodness. Cover the skillet with a lid and lower the heat to a simmer. Let the chicken cook for about 8–10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F.
During this time, the sauce thickens slightly, and the chicken becomes incredibly tender, absorbing the flavors of the garlic, fine herbs, and creamy base. If you’re like me, this is the moment you find yourself hovering over the skillet, sneaking spoonfuls of sauce to “test” (no judgment here!).
Step 5: Time to Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through, it’s time to plate this masterpiece. Using tongs, transfer each chicken breast to a serving plate and generously spoon the sauce over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for that pop of color and freshness.
Perfect Pairings for Your Boursin Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Buttery Mashed Potatoes: Let them soak up all that dreamy sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Think crisp-tender broccoli or green beans.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up every last drop of sauce.
- Pasta or Rice: A simple base that highlights the richness of the sauce.
Pro Tips for Success
- Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your sauce feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to loosen it up. Too thin? Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken.
- Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce just before serving. It brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
- Make It Your Own: Experiment with different Boursin cheese flavors, like Shallot & Chive or Cracked Black Pepper, for a fun twist.
- Prep Ahead: Season and sear the chicken in advance, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, reheat it in the sauce for an easy, stress-free dinner.
A Dish That Never Disappoints
This Chicken with Boursin Sauce isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table stop and say, “Wow.” And the best part? It’s so easy that it feels like cheating. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or an intimate gathering, it’s guaranteed to impress.
FAQ: Your Chicken with Boursin Sauce Questions Answered
Before you dive into this creamy masterpiece, let’s address some common questions to ensure your dinner turns out perfect every time.
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe. They’re juicier and bring a slightly richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs take a bit longer to cook through.
2. What’s the best way to know when the chicken is cooked?
The safest and easiest way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, and once it reads 165°F, you’re good to go. If you don’t have a thermometer, slice into the chicken to check that the juices run clear and there’s no pink in the center.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and sear the chicken in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently in a skillet, add the chicken, and simmer until heated through.
4. What other sides work well with this recipe?
Beyond mashed potatoes and steamed veggies, consider pairing this dish with:
- Creamy polenta
- Roasted root vegetables
- A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the chicken and alter the sauce’s texture.
6. Can I freeze this dish?
You can, but the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. If you do freeze it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently while whisking to bring the sauce back together.
7. Can I substitute Boursin cheese with something else?
If you can’t find Boursin cheese, a good alternative is cream cheese blended with minced garlic, fresh herbs (like parsley, thyme, or chives), and a pinch of salt. While it won’t have the exact flavor profile, it’s still delicious and creamy.
Conclusion: A Recipe Worth Repeating
There’s something undeniably satisfying about creating a dish that feels gourmet but is deceptively simple to make. Chicken with Boursin Sauce checks all the boxes: it’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers every time.
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Chicken with Boursin Sauce with Garlic and Fine Herbs
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
This creamy, indulgent dish features tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich and flavorful Boursin cheese sauce. The combination of garlic, fine herbs, and a touch of cream makes it a perfect comfort meal that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or veggies.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin Cheese with Garlic and Fine Herbs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Season the chicken: Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed on both sides.
2️⃣ Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside (it’s okay if they aren’t fully cooked yet).
3️⃣ Prepare the sauce: Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom with a wooden spoon to deglaze, loosening any browned bits (this adds flavor!). Stir in the heavy cream and Boursin cheese. Whisk until the cheese melts completely, and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4️⃣ Cook the chicken in the sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5️⃣ Serve and garnish: Transfer the chicken and sauce to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Boursin substitute: If you can’t find Boursin cheese, use an herbed cream cheese or a mixture of soft cheese with garlic and fine herbs.
- Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to prevent the sauce from separating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
