Boursin Chicken is a delightful culinary creation that combines the tender, juicy essence of chicken with the rich, creamy flavors of Boursin cheese. This dish has emerged as a favorite among food enthusiasts who appreciate the harmonious blend of herbs and garlic found in Boursin cheese, adding a luxurious texture and depth of flavor to the chicken. The recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit various cooking styles, from baking and grilling to sautéing, making it a perfect addition to any meal, whether it’s a simple family dinner or a more elaborate gathering.
The preparation of Boursin Chicken involves stuffing or topping chicken breasts with Boursin cheese, which melts beautifully, enveloping the meat in a decadent, flavorful sauce. Additional ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms can be incorporated to enhance the dish’s complexity and nutritional value. This combination not only elevates the taste profile but also ensures a moist, tender chicken experience, striking the right balance between indulgence and healthiness.
What sets Boursin Chicken apart is its ability to cater to a wide range of palates. The cheese’s blend of garlic, parsley, and chives, mixed with the succulent texture of well-cooked chicken, offers a sensory delight that is both comforting and sophisticated. It’s a testament to the creativity in modern cooking, where traditional ingredients are reimagined in new, exciting ways. This dish is a celebration of flavors that promises to leave a lasting impression on anyone who tries it, making it a must-try for culinary adventurers and home cooks alike.
Prep time
15 minutes
Cook time
25 minutes
Course
Main course
Cuisine
French-Inspired
Servings
4 persons
Kitchen Tools Needed
Chef’s Knife
Cutting Board
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Skillet (preferably oven-safe for a one-pan approach)
Baking Dish (if not using an oven-safe skillet)
Aluminum Foil (optional, for covering if baking)
Meat Thermometer
Tongs
Spoon or Spatula (for stuffing or spreading the Boursin cheese)
Ingredients for Boursin Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 package (5.2 ounces) Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for garnish)
1/2 cup chicken broth (for deglazing the pan and making a sauce, optional)
Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (optional, for additional flavor)
2 cups fresh spinach (optional, for a variation)
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (optional, for a variation)
Method of Making Boursin Chicken
Preparing the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you’re baking the chicken.
Use a sharp chef’s knife and cutting board to slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Season the inside and outside of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Stuffing the Chicken
Open the package of Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese.
Spoon an equal amount of Boursin cheese into the pocket of each chicken breast. If using spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, add them inside the pocket before the cheese.
Secure the opening with toothpicks if necessary.
Cooking the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear each side until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer it directly to the preheated oven. If not, transfer the chicken breasts to a prepared baking dish.
Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), checking with a meat thermometer.
Making the Sauce (Optional)
After removing the chicken from the skillet, place the skillet back on the stove over medium heat.
Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Let the sauce reduce for a few minutes until slightly thickened, then pour over the chicken before serving.
Serving
Remove any toothpicks if used.
Garnish the chicken with dried parsley, fresh herbs, or additional sauce as preferred.
Serve hot, alongside your choice of sides.
What To Serve With?
Roasted Garlic Potatoes: Oven-roasted baby potatoes tossed with olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh rosemary, providing a crisp exterior and fluffy interior that complements the creamy Boursin chicken.
Steamed Green Beans: Fresh green beans lightly steamed to retain their crunch and color, seasoned with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of lemon juice to add a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Quinoa Salad: A light and nutritious quinoa salad mixed with chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette, offering a refreshing and healthy side that balances the meal.
Grilled Asparagus: Asparagus spears grilled until tender and slightly charred, then finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, adding a smoky flavor and a touch of elegance.
Sautéed Spinach with Garlic: Spinach leaves sautéed in a bit of olive oil with minced garlic until just wilted, providing a simple yet flavorful side rich in vitamins and minerals.
Butternut Squash Puree: Creamy puree made from roasted butternut squash blended with a touch of cream and nutmeg, serving as a sweet and savory companion that highlights the savory notes of the Boursin cheese.
Wild Rice Pilaf: A hearty and aromatic pilaf made from wild rice mixed with diced carrots, onions, and herbs, offering a nutty texture and rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy chicken.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Brussels sprouts roasted until crispy and drizzled with a balsamic reduction, adding a tangy and sweet dimension that cuts through the richness of the dish.
Herb Focaccia Bread: Warm, freshly baked focaccia bread seasoned with rosemary, thyme, and coarse sea salt, perfect for soaking up any sauce or cheese remaining on the plate.
Garden Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions, dressed in a homemade balsamic vinaigrette, offering a light and crisp contrast to the meal.
Making Ahead, Storage and Reheating
Making Ahead
Boursin Chicken can be prepared ahead of time to streamline mealtime preparations. You can stuff the chicken breasts with Boursin cheese and any additional fillings, then securely wrap them individually with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before you plan to cook them. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Storage
After cooking, any leftovers should be cooled to room temperature before storage to ensure food safety. Place the cooked Boursin Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To maintain the best quality, avoid leaving the chicken out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as this can increase the risk of bacterial growth.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy your Boursin Chicken again, reheating it properly is key to preserving its moisture and flavor. The oven is the best method for reheating to keep the chicken moist. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and add a splash of water or chicken broth to the bottom of the dish to create steam.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil to trap the moisture, and reheat for 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring it’s heated through. Microwaving is quicker but can dry out the chicken, so if using a microwave, cover the chicken with a damp paper towel and heat on a medium setting, checking frequently.
Variations
Spinach and Mushroom Boursin Chicken: Add sautéed spinach and mushrooms into the pocket along with the Boursin cheese for an extra layer of flavor and a boost of nutrition.
Crispy Bacon Wrap: Before baking, wrap each cheese-stuffed chicken breast in bacon strips to add a crispy, smoky layer that complements the creamy Boursin filling.
Sundried Tomato and Basil Boursin Chicken: Incorporate chopped sundried tomatoes and fresh basil leaves inside the chicken breasts for a Mediterranean twist.
Pesto Boursin Chicken: Spread a layer of pesto sauce inside the chicken pockets before adding the Boursin cheese, offering a vibrant, herby flavor.
Boursin Chicken with a Crunchy Topping: Before baking, add a crunchy topping of panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and Parmesan cheese for added texture.
Stuffed Boursin Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful alternative.
Substitutions
Herb Cream Cheese: If Boursin cheese is unavailable, substitute with any herb-flavored cream cheese or a mix of cream cheese with garlic and herbs for a similar flavor profile.
Goat Cheese: For a tangier filling, use soft goat cheese mixed with minced garlic and herbs as an alternative to Boursin.
Dairy-Free Cream Cheese: For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free herb cream cheese alternatives available in most health food stores.
Greek Yogurt Mixture: Combine Greek yogurt with herbs and minced garlic for a healthier filling option. This works best when not exposed directly to high heat to prevent curdling.
Ricotta and Herb Mix: A mixture of ricotta cheese, garlic, and fresh chopped herbs can also serve as a lighter, yet flavorful stuffing alternative.
Tips and Tricks for making Boursin Chicken
Ensure Even Cooking: Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This promotes uniform cooking, preventing parts from becoming too dry while others are still undercooked.
Prevent Cheese Leakage: To keep the Boursin cheese from leaking out during cooking, carefully seal the pockets with toothpicks or use a thin layer of flour along the edges to act as a glue.
Enhance Flavor with Brining: For extra juicy chicken, consider brining the breasts in a solution of water and salt for a few hours before cooking. This process helps the meat retain moisture, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken.
Create a Crispy Skin: If you prefer a crispy outer layer, lightly coat the stuffed chicken breasts in a mixture of flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs or panko before searing. This step adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Resting is Crucial: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. Resting helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is moist and delicious.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, always check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C).
Incorporate Vegetables: For a one-pan meal, add vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini around the chicken in the baking dish. They’ll roast to perfection in the flavorful juices released by the chicken.
Deglaze for Extra Sauce: After searing the chicken, deglaze the pan with a bit of chicken broth, wine, or water. Scrape up the browned bits and simmer to create a delicious sauce that can be poured over the chicken when serving.
Experiment with Cheese Flavors: Boursin cheese comes in various flavors. Don’t hesitate to try different types to discover which one best complements your taste preferences.
Make it a Meal Prep Option: Boursin Chicken is excellent for meal prep. Cook in advance, store in the refrigerator, and reheat gently for a quick and satisfying meal during the week.
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but they need to be fully thawed before you begin. Thawing ensures even cooking and allows for easier slicing to create pockets for the Boursin cheese. Always pat the chicken dry after thawing to remove excess moisture.
To minimize cheese leakage, make sure the pocket you cut into the chicken breast is deep enough to hold the cheese but leaves enough room to seal the edges. You can seal the edges with toothpicks or make shallow incisions to create a natural flap that keeps the cheese inside. Cooking at the right temperature and not overcooking also helps keep the filling intact.
Absolutely! For a lighter version, you can use a reduced-fat Boursin cheese or a mix of light cream cheese with herbs. Additionally, consider using skinless chicken thighs or breasts to reduce fat content and baking instead of frying to cut down on added oils.
Yes, Boursin Chicken can be adapted for a slow cooker. After searing the chicken (optional for added flavor), place it in the slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Keep in mind that the cheese may become more incorporated into the sauce rather than staying inside the chicken.
For a gluten-free meal, consider sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, mashed cauliflower, or a fresh garden salad. These options complement the richness of Boursin Chicken without adding gluten, making for a balanced and wholesome meal.
Conclusion
Boursin Chicken masterfully combines the simplicity of poultry with the luxurious richness of Boursin cheese, creating a dish that transcends ordinary chicken recipes. This culinary delight, with its tender chicken filled with creamy, herbed cheese, promises a dining experience that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Its versatility allows for numerous variations and substitutions, ensuring it can be tailored to fit any dietary preference or pantry availability.
Whether served at a casual family dinner or as part of an elegant feast, Boursin Chicken impresses with its depth of flavor and elegant presentation. The tips and tricks shared for perfecting this dish underscore its accessibility for cooks of all levels, making it a reliable and delightful choice for any occasion. Ultimately, Boursin Chicken stands as a testament to the beauty of combining simple ingredients to achieve a meal that’s utterly memorable.
