If you love dishes that bring bold flavors and creamy textures together in perfect harmony, then you are going to adore this Cajun Chicken Pasta with Boursin Cheese Recipe. It’s a vibrant, comforting meal that combines tender, seasoned chicken with a luscious sauce made from rich Boursin cheese and heavy cream. The colorful medley of bell peppers and onions adds freshness and just the right crunch while the Cajun seasoning kicks up the heat for a lively, unforgettable dinner. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this dish is an absolute winner that feels indulgent yet approachable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making this dish come alive. Each one plays a crucial role—whether it’s the creamy cheese that gives the sauce its signature silkiness, or the Cajun seasoning that infuses the chicken with vibrant spice and aroma. Here’s your checklist for a successful Cajun Chicken Pasta with Boursin Cheese Recipe:
- 12 ounces penne pasta: Perfect for soaking up that creamy, flavorful sauce.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced into strips: Tender protein that carries the Cajun spices beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided: For searing the chicken and sautéing the veggies to golden perfection.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning divided: The heart and soul of this dish, adding that signature kick.
- 1 red bell pepper sliced: Adds sweet crunch and vibrant color to the pasta.
- 1 yellow bell pepper sliced: Balances flavors with a mild sweetness and texture.
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced: Brings a subtle sharpness that rounds out the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic minced: Infuses the dish with warm, fragrant depth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a rich, velvety sauce that ties everything together.
- 5.2 ounces Boursin Garlic and Fine Herbs cheese: The creamy, herby star that elevates the sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and boosts savory notes without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish to the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste: Enhances overall flavor without making it salty.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a gentle peppery accent.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, herbal brightness on top.
How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta with Boursin Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your penne pasta and cook it until it’s al dente—meaning tender but still with a little bite. This texture is essential because it will hold the creamy sauce perfectly without becoming mushy. Don’t forget to scoop out half a cup of pasta water before draining; that starchy water can work wonders later if the sauce needs to be loosened up.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
While your pasta cooks, toss the chicken strips with half the olive oil and one tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. This initial coating infuses the meat with a vibrant spicy flavor. Heat your skillet until it’s nice and hot, then cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s fully cooked through and kissed with golden brown spots. Once done, set it aside—this step locks in juiciness and flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and toss in the red and yellow bell peppers along with the sliced red onion. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until these vegetables become just tender enough to be juicy but still retain a pleasant crunch. Add the minced garlic last, cooking it for only 30 seconds until fragrant, to avoid any bitterness.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to blend the ingredients beautifully. Turn your stovetop down to medium and add the Boursin cheese. Watch in delight as it melts into a silky, herby sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and the remaining Cajun seasoning, which will give the sauce a layered complexity and keep that spicy Cajun character vibrant.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet and let everything simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully. Add the drained penne pasta and toss to coat each piece of pasta in that heavenly sauce. If the sauce feels thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it until it’s perfectly creamy. Finish by seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
How to Serve Cajun Chicken Pasta with Boursin Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Never underestimate the power of a garnish. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of green color but also introduces a fresh, herbal note that balances the richness of the creamy sauce. For a little extra zest, you can also grate some extra Parmesan on top or add a pinch of smoked paprika to elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This Cajun Chicken Pasta with Boursin Cheese Recipe is hearty enough to be the star, but if you want to round out your meal, consider pairing it with a light salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are fantastic for mopping up every last bit of that decadent sauce. Steamed or roasted green veggies like asparagus or broccoli also make a great contrast to the creamy pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve this pasta in a large, shallow bowl topped with colorful garnishes like more parsley, thinly sliced bell pepper strips, or even a lemon wedge for a touch of brightness. You could also portion it into individual ramekins and broil with a light sprinkle of extra Parmesan to create a golden crust on top. Either way, this dish will wow with both its looks and flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the Cajun Chicken Pasta with Boursin Cheese Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Because the sauce is creamy, it’s best to reheat gently to maintain its texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is not ideal due to the dairy content, which can separate when thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables separately. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken and veggies, then freshly make the creamy Boursin sauce and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking. Adding a small splash of milk or cream during reheating can help restore the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving on high power to keep the texture and flavors at their best.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding onto the sauce, you can use rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine depending on your preference. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is Boursin cheese hard to find?
Boursin Garlic and Fine Herbs cheese is usually available in the cheese or deli section of most well-stocked supermarkets. If you can’t find it, try specialty food stores or order it online for an authentic flavor boost.
How spicy is this Cajun Chicken Pasta with Boursin Cheese Recipe?
The Cajun seasoning adds a moderate spice level that’s flavorful without overwhelming heat. If you like it spicier, feel free to add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to taste.
Can I substitute the chicken with seafood?
Yes! Shrimp makes a fantastic alternative and cooks quickly. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking your seafood.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter sauce, substituting heavy cream with half-and-half works well. The sauce will be slightly less rich but still creamy and delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Chicken Pasta with Boursin Cheese Recipe is hands down one of those meals that feels like a special treat but comes together quickly and easily. The perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and fresh makes it a satisfying dinner for any night of the week. Don’t hesitate to whip this up and share the joy of a truly comforting and flavorful dish with your loved ones—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Cajun Chicken Pasta with Boursin Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A flavorful Cajun Chicken Pasta dish made creamy with Boursin Garlic and Fine Herbs cheese, sautéed bell peppers, and perfectly seasoned chicken strips. This quick and comforting meal combines a spicy Cajun kick with a rich, cheesy sauce for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta and Poultry
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5.2 ounces Boursin Garlic and Fine Herbs cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Season Chicken: Toss the sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes until fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil, bell peppers, and red onion. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to medium and add the Boursin cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Add Cheeses and Seasoning: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and remaining Cajun seasoning.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Season and Garnish: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute shrimp for chicken if desired.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
