Looking for a rich, flavorful, and easy dinner idea? Creamy Chicken with Boursin Sauce is a decadent yet effortless meal that will quickly become a family favorite. Juicy seared chicken breasts are smothered in a velvety garlic and fine herb Boursin cheese sauce, making for an indulgent dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Rich & Creamy: Boursin cheese melts into a smooth, luxurious sauce.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for weeknights.
- Versatile Pairing: Pairs beautifully with pasta, vegetables, or crusty bread.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs flavor)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, black pepper, and thyme.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Boursin Sauce
- In the same skillet, add a little more butter if needed and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Lower the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Boursin cheese, whisking until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
Step 3: Simmer the Chicken
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Plate the chicken and generously drizzle the creamy Boursin sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of dried thyme.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken stays juicy.
- Use Room-Temperature Boursin: This helps it melt more smoothly into the sauce.
- Thicker Sauce Option: Let the sauce simmer a little longer or add a cornstarch slurry.
- Don’t Skip Deglazing: Scraping up the browned bits adds incredible flavor to the sauce.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the Protein: Try pork chops, salmon, or shrimp instead of chicken.
- Vegetarian Option: Serve the Boursin sauce over roasted cauliflower or mushrooms.
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, asparagus, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream.
What to Serve with Creamy Boursin Chicken
This dish pairs perfectly with:
- Mashed potatoes or buttery rice
- Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans
- Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
- A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth. Avoid microwaving, as the sauce may separate.
FAQs
1. What is Boursin cheese?
Boursin is a creamy, spreadable cheese infused with garlic and fine herbs, perfect for sauces, dips, and spreads.
2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce up to a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat gently before serving.
3. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure your chicken broth and Boursin cheese are gluten-free.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
While possible, the cream-based sauce may separate upon thawing. For best results, enjoy fresh or within a few days from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken with Boursin Sauce is an easy yet elegant dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re making a special dinner for guests or a quick meal for yourself, this creamy, indulgent recipe is a guaranteed hit. Give it a try, and let the rich, velvety flavors speak for themselves!