If you’re craving a comforting yet flavorful dinner, this Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. Creamy, cheesy Boursin melts into juicy Cajun-spiced chicken and roasted cherry tomatoes, all tossed generously with tender penne pasta. This dish delivers a perfect balance of spice, richness, and freshness that feels indulgent but comes together with ease. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend, this recipe promises a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a pivotal role in creating the magic on your plate. From the zesty Cajun seasoning to the creamy Boursin cheese and sweet burst of roasted cherry tomatoes, every element contributes layers of flavor, texture, and color to the dish.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean protein that soaks up the Cajun spices beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Adds richness and helps roast the chicken and tomatoes perfectly.
- 4 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided): The star spice blend that brings warmth and boldness.
- 10.4 ounces Garlic Herb Boursin Cheese: Two packages packed with creamy, herby goodness that melts into the sauce.
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes (about 4 cups): Roasting these brings out their natural sweetness and adds vibrant color.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides subtle heat and depth.
- 1 pound penne pasta (or medium pasta shells): The perfect vessel to soak up the creamy, spicy sauce.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste): Adds an extra kick to elevate the Cajun flavors.
How to Make Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season Your Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Then, slice the chicken breasts lengthwise through the middle, creating four thinner pieces for even cooking. Coat the chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and generously rub in 3 tablespoons of the Cajun seasoning—this ensures every bite bursts with smoky, spicy flavor. Place the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet, ready to roast.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese and Tomatoes
In a large, oven-safe casserole dish (9 by 13 inches is ideal), combine the Garlic Herb Boursin cheese with the cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the tomatoes with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. This mixture will roast to creamy, juicy perfection alongside the chicken, creating the base of your sauce.
Step 3: Roast Chicken and Tomatoes Together
Slide both the baking sheet with the chicken and the casserole dish with the Boursin and tomatoes into the oven. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the tomatoes are blistered and soft. This step melds the Cajun chicken’s spices with the rich, garlicky cheese and sweet tomatoes in the best possible way.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While everything roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil on the stove. Add your penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, scoop out a cup of the starchy pasta water—this will help create a luscious sauce later.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Remove the baking dishes from the oven. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and dice it into bite-sized pieces. Add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, hot sauce, and the last tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to the casserole dish with the Boursin and tomatoes. Stir everything until it’s creamy and well mixed, then gently fold in the diced chicken. Serve immediately while it’s warm and comforting.
How to Serve Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe, fresh garnishes are your best friend. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil for a bright herbal note and a splash of color. Add a little extra cracked black pepper or a dash more hot sauce for guests who crave extra heat. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan can add an irresistible salty finish.
Side Dishes
This creamy Cajun pasta pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. Think a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness or roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans to add a healthy crunch. For a heartier meal, garlic bread is a classic choice for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests or simply make your meal feel special, serve this dish in individual shallow bowls or colorful pasta plates that showcase the vibrant tomatoes and herbs. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil or a swirl of hot sauce on top for a gourmet touch. For a casual feast, family-style serving straight from the casserole dish creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious meal, pack any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen after resting, making your next meal just as satisfying.
Freezing
This Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe freezes well for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low-medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the pasta seems dry. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through to ensure warmth is even and the creamy sauce stays silky.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great for holding the sauce, you can swap in medium pasta shells, rigatoni, or even fusilli. Just cook according to package instructions and be sure to reserve some pasta water for saucing.
Is there a substitute for Boursin cheese?
If you can’t find Boursin, try a creamy garlic and herb cream cheese or a soft goat cheese mixed with garlic and fresh herbs. The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but you’ll still get that creamy, herby essence.
How spicy is this recipe?
The Cajun seasoning and hot sauce give the dish a medium level of heat that enhances flavor without overpowering. You can always adjust the hot sauce amount to your taste, making it milder or spicier as you prefer.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can season the chicken and prep the tomatoes and Boursin mixture a few hours ahead or even the night before, keeping them chilled until ready to roast. This can help speed up your cooking on a busy day.
What wine pairs well with Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe?
A chilled, crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or a slightly fruity Chardonnay complements the creamy cheese and spicy Cajun flavors wonderfully. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir is a great option without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe that feels both luxurious and comforting at the same time. With its rich, creamy sauce, irresistible Cajun spice, and juicy roasted tomatoes, it’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again. So go ahead—give it a try and enjoy a dinner that’s full of flavor and heartwarming satisfaction.
Print
Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy and flavorful Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta combines tender Cajun-seasoned chicken breasts with Garlic Herb Boursin cheese and juicy roasted cherry tomatoes. Paired with perfectly cooked penne pasta and a hint of hot sauce, this baked pasta dish offers a comforting and slightly spicy meal ready in just 40 minutes – perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 4 tablespoons cajun seasoning (divided)
Main Dish
- 10.4 ounces Garlic Herb Boursin Cheese (two 5.2 ounce packages)
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes (20–24 ounces or 4 cups)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound penne pasta (or medium pasta shells)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s hot and ready for roasting the chicken, cheese, and tomatoes.
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 pieces. Coat the chicken in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and then rub in 3 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning evenly. Arrange the chicken pieces on a baking sheet for roasting.
- Prepare the Cheese and Tomatoes: In a 9 x 13 inch oven-safe casserole dish, add the Boursin cheese and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle tomatoes with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Roast Chicken, Cheese & Tomatoes: Place both the chicken on the baking sheet and the casserole dish with cheese and tomatoes in the oven. Roast for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the tomatoes are soft.
- Cook the Pasta: While the above is roasting, bring a large pot of water to a boil on the stove. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water and set aside.
- Remove and Slice Chicken: Remove the baking dish and chicken from the oven. Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and dice into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, hot sauce, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to the baking dish with Boursin cheese and roasted tomatoes. Stir well to combine and melt the cheese into a creamy sauce.
- Incorporate the Chicken: Mix the diced Cajun chicken into the pasta mixture evenly. Serve immediately for a warm, delicious meal.
Notes
- You can substitute penne with other medium-sized pasta shapes like shells or rigatoni.
- Adjust hot sauce according to your heat preference or omit for a milder dish.
- For extra veggies, try adding roasted bell peppers or spinach alongside the tomatoes.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
