If you’re searching for that perfect comfort meal with a spicy, cheesy twist you can whip up any night of the week, look no further than this Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken roasting alongside creamy Garlic Herb Boursin cheese and bursting cherry tomatoes, all coming together with perfectly cooked pasta for a dish that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in color. This recipe brings a cozy, gourmet vibe to your table without any fuss, making it a true favorite for family dinners or when you want to treat yourself to something special. Ready to dive into a celebration of bold spices, creamy cheese, and hearty pasta? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are incredibly straightforward yet essential, each playing a unique role in building the rich, layered flavor of this dish. From the spicy Cajun seasoning that brings heat to the creamy, herb-infused Boursin, and the sweet burst of cherry tomatoes, every item will take your taste buds on a fantastic ride.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 ½ pounds): Choose fresh, plump breasts for juicy, tender meat that soaks up the Cajun spices beautifully.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons, divided): A great quality olive oil adds richness and helps the chicken and tomatoes roast to perfection.
- Cajun seasoning (4 tablespoons, divided): The heart of the recipe – it infuses the chicken and pasta with irresistible smoky, spicy flavor.
- Garlic Herb Boursin Cheese (10.4 ounces): This creamy cheese melts smoothly, adding incredible depth and a hint of garlic and herbs to the dish.
- Cherry tomatoes (2 pints, about 4 cups): They roast into juicy little bursts of sweetness that perfectly balance the spicy Cajun notes.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle hint of warmth and rounds out the savory profile.
- Penne pasta (1 pound): Choose penne or medium pasta shells that beautifully hold onto the creamy sauce and mix-ins.
- Hot sauce (1 teaspoon): Optional but highly recommended for an extra kick, adjustable to your spice preference.
How to Make Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F to get it nice and hot for roasting. Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces, which helps them cook evenly and absorb the seasoning better. Toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 3 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning until every piece is coated with spicy goodness. Lay them out on a baking sheet so they’re ready to bake.
Step 2: Combine Boursin Cheese and Tomatoes
In a 9×13 inch oven-safe casserole dish, add the creamy Garlic Herb Boursin cheese alongside the cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the tomatoes with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. This combo will roast beautifully in the oven, softening the tomatoes and melting the cheese to a luscious, flavorful base for your pasta.
Step 3: Roast Chicken and Cheese-Tomato Mixture
Place both the baking sheet with the chicken and the casserole dish with cheese and tomatoes into your preheated oven. Let them roast for about 20 to 25 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the tomatoes to burst with flavor. The melting Boursin adds a smooth, herby creaminess that’s simply irresistible when combined with the spicy chicken.
Step 4: Cook Pasta and Save Pasta Water
While the oven is doing its magic, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil on your stovetop. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Before draining the pasta, make sure to scoop out 1 cup of the pasta water and set it aside. This starchy water will help you create a silky sauce that clings to every bite in just a moment.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once the baking time is up, take the casserole dish and chicken out of the oven. Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and dice it into bite-size pieces. Add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, hot sauce, and remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to the casserole dish with the melted Boursin and roasted tomatoes. Stir everything together until the creamy sauce evenly coats the pasta. Toss the diced chicken back in, mix gently, and serve immediately for a bowl of pure, comforting deliciousness.
How to Serve Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Your Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe shines on its own, but a few thoughtful garnishes take it to the next level. Freshly chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness, while a sprinkle of grated Parmesan gives an extra hit of savory richness. If you love a bit more heat, toss on some crushed red pepper flakes for that final sizzle.
Side Dishes
This pasta dish pairs beautifully with something light and crisp to balance the creamy, spicy flavors. A simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette is perfect, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans add a fresh, wholesome crunch to the meal. For a heartier touch, garlic bread or a crusty baguette is a fantastic way to scoop up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests or family, serve the pasta directly from the baking dish to showcase the bubbly roasted tomatoes and melted cheese. Alternatively, plate individual servings with a small drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a lemon wedge on the side to brighten each bite. For a cozy, rustic feel, use colorful bowls or serve alongside a candlelit table setting to enhance the comfort-food experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of your Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe will keep well for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day. Just be sure to store it separately from any salad or fresh side dishes to keep everything tasting fresh.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for a later date, this dish freezes nicely. Place cooled pasta with chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space for expansion. It will hold up well for about 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the creamy texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently to avoid overcooking the chicken or drying out the pasta. The best method is to warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep that glorious Boursin sauce silky. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne or medium shells work wonderfully because they catch the sauce nicely, feel free to swap in rigatoni, farfalle, or even rotini depending on what you have on hand. The key is to use a pasta shape that holds the delicious sauce well.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this recipe?
The Cajun seasoning provides a moderate kick with smoky and somewhat earthy spices. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of seasoning slightly or omit the hot sauce. For those who love heat, feel free to add more Cajun spice or an extra splash of hot sauce.
What can I substitute for Boursin cheese?
If you don’t have Boursin on hand, cream cheese mixed with a bit of garlic powder, herbs, and a touch of salt can work as a substitute, though it won’t have quite the same sophisticated flavor and texture. Alternatively, herbed goat cheese can be a lovely replacement for that creamy, tangy element.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe as written uses traditional wheat pasta, but it’s very easy to make gluten-free by choosing your favorite gluten-free penne or shell pasta. The rest of the ingredients naturally do not contain gluten, so just check the labels on your seasonings to be sure.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can season and slice the chicken a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated, and even assemble the Boursin and tomato mixture in the casserole dish before baking. Just keep the pasta and final combining step for the day of serving to maintain the freshest flavors and textures.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe enough for anyone who loves a satisfying dinner packed with bold spices, creamy cheese, and vibrant, roasted veggies. It’s a recipe that’s exciting enough for entertaining but simple enough for a weeknight win. Give it a go, and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen – this dish really knows how to bring people together around the table.
Print
Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish combining tender Cajun-seasoned chicken breasts with garlic herb Boursin cheese, juicy roasted cherry tomatoes, and perfectly cooked penne pasta. Roasted in the oven for an easy, one-pan meal, it’s a deliciously spicy and cheesy dinner perfect for family nights or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 4 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
Cheese and Vegetables
- 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
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 pound penne pasta (or medium pasta shells)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F to ensure it’s hot and ready for roasting the chicken and vegetables.
- Prepare the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thin pieces. Coat the chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then evenly sprinkle 3 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning over the chicken, making sure each piece is well seasoned. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Assemble the cheese and tomatoes: In a 9 inch by 13 inch oven-safe casserole dish, combine the Boursin cheese and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the tomatoes with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season with ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper for balanced flavor.
- Roast chicken and vegetables: Place both the baking sheet with chicken and the casserole dish with cheese and tomatoes into the preheated oven. Roast everything for 20 to 25 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.
- Cook the pasta: While the chicken and vegetables roast, bring a large pot of salted water to boil on the stovetop. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Remove from oven and slice chicken: Carefully take out the casserole dish and baking sheet from the oven. Transfer the chicken pieces to a cutting board and dice into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine pasta and sauce: To the casserole dish with the Boursin and roasted tomatoes, add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, 1 teaspoon hot sauce (or more to taste), and the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir everything well to create a creamy, spicy sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
- Add chicken and serve: Mix the diced Cajun chicken into the pasta mixture. Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your preferred spice level.
- If you don’t have Boursin cheese, cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs can be a substitute.
- Saving pasta water is crucial as it helps to loosen the sauce and bind everything together.
- Use medium pasta shells if penne is unavailable; they both hold sauce well.
- Make sure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
