This dish features tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a luscious sauce made from Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese, garlic, chicken broth, and heavy cream. The sauce is enriched with fresh parsley and a touch of thyme, creating a smooth, flavorful, and creamy finish. Ideal for an easy weeknight main, it pairs well with steamed greens or mashed potatoes, offering a comforting and elegant meal with French-inspired flair.
The first time I made this Boursin chicken, I was running late and threw everything together with zero expectations. My husband took one bite and actually stopped talking mid-sentence—the sauce was that velvety and rich. Now it's the recipe I turn to when I want something that tastes like it took hours but really only took minutes.
Last Tuesday, my sister dropped by unexpectedly while I was simmering the sauce. She ended up staying for dinner and said it was the best chicken shes had in a restaurant or at home. There's something about that combination of creamy cheese and fresh herbs that makes people feel genuinely cared for.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Pat them thoroughly dry before seasoning helps achieve that gorgeous golden crust
- 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper: Simple seasoning goes a long way since the Boursin adds so much flavor
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: High smoke point makes it perfect for getting that sear
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps prevent the olive oil from burning
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Fresh garlic makes all the difference here
- 200 g Boursin Garlic and Fine Herbs cheese: The star of the show—one package does the heavy lifting
- ½ cup chicken broth: Deglazes the pan and adds depth
- ½ cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped: Brightens up all that richness
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Optional but adds a lovely earthy note
Instructions
- Season and prep the chicken:
- Pat each breast dry with paper towels then season both sides generously with salt and pepper
- Sear to golden perfection:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 4 to 5 minutes per side until beautifully browned and nearly cooked through. Set aside on a plate.
- Build the flavor base:
- Reduce heat to medium. Toss in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Create the silky sauce:
- Add the Boursin cheese chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely into a smooth luscious sauce.
- Add the herbs:
- Stir in the parsley and thyme if using.
- Finish together:
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Simmer for 7 to 10 minutes turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Final touches:
- Taste the sauce and add more salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle with extra fresh parsley before serving.
This recipe became my go-to after a friend came over for dinner during a particularly rough week. She said something about how good food doesnt have to be complicated. That stuck with me.
Serving Suggestions
The sauce is perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or crusty bread. Steamed green beans add a fresh bright element that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Making It Your Own
Chicken thighs work wonderfully here and stay even juicier through the simmer. I've added sautéed mushrooms during the sauce step and my mushroom-hating husband didn't even complain.
Wine Pairing
A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the creaminess while complementing the herbs. Keep the wine well-chilled and pour yourself a glass while the chicken simmers.
- For lighter sauce try half-and-half instead of heavy cream
- Spinach wilts beautifully into the sauce during the last few minutes
- Leftovers reheat surprisingly well for lunch the next day
Good food shared with people you love is what cooking is really about. This dish delivers that feeling every single time.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
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Yes, chicken thighs can be substituted for a juicier, more flavorful option. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
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Steamed green beans, mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread complement the creamy sauce well.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
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Yes, when served without wheat-based sides, this dish is gluten-free.
- → Can I lighten the sauce?
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Using half-and-half in place of heavy cream will lighten the sauce without sacrificing creaminess.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
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Simmer the sauce gently on medium heat and stir constantly once the cheese is added to keep it smooth.
- → Can additional vegetables be added?
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Sautéed mushrooms or spinach are excellent additions for extra flavor and nutrition.