If you’ve been on the hunt for a pasta dish that feels like a warm hug and packs a punch of flavor, the Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine tender, spice-kissed chicken paired with creamy, garlicky Boursin cheese, roasted cherry tomatoes bursting with sweetness, and perfectly cooked pasta—all baked together in one cozy dish. It’s comfort food elevated with a Cajun twist, effortlessly impressive yet simple enough for any weeknight. Trust me, once you make this, it’s going to be a favorite for family dinners and friendly gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its straightforward, carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s the creamy richness of Boursin cheese, the bold heat from Cajun seasoning, or the fresh pop of roasted tomatoes that brightens every bite. Together, they create this unforgettable balance of flavors and textures.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean and tender, these are the star protein that soaks up all the Cajun flavor beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Enhances the roasting process and contributes subtle, fruity notes that marry all the ingredients.
- 4 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided): Infuses the chicken and pasta with that signature spicy, smoky kick you’re craving.
- 10.4 ounces Garlic Herb Boursin Cheese (two 5.2-ounce packages): Brings creamy, herby richness that melts into the dish and elevates every mouthful.
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes (20-24 ounces or 4 cups): Roasted to perfection, these burst with natural sweetness and balance the spice.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential to enhance all the flavors without overpowering them.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and subtle earthiness to round out the seasoning.
- 1 pound penne pasta (or medium pasta shells): Holds sauce beautifully with its ridges or shape, making each bite satisfying.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to your spice preference): For an extra layer of heat that wakes up the dish just right.
How to Make Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Slice your chicken breasts in half lengthwise, giving you four thin pieces that will cook evenly and quickly. Coat these chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle 3 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning evenly. This step ensures every bite of chicken is packed with that aromatic Cajun goodness before roasting.
Step 2: Get Your Cheese and Tomatoes Ready
Grab a 9 by 13-inch oven-safe casserole dish and add the Boursin cheese along with the cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the tomatoes generously with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. This mixture of creamy cheese and juicy tomatoes will roast beautifully in the oven, melding flavors and textures.
Step 3: Roast Chicken and Cheese-Tomato Mixture
Place the chicken on a baking sheet and pop both the chicken and casserole dish into the oven. Roast them side by side for about 20 to 25 minutes. This step caramelizes the tomatoes, melts the cheese into a luscious sauce, and cooks the chicken to juicy perfection.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While your oven is hard at work, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil on the stove. Boil your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, make sure to scoop out a cup of the starchy pasta water—this magic ingredient will help bring your sauce to the perfect consistency.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Remove the baked cheese and tomatoes from the oven carefully, and also take out the chicken to rest on a cutting board. Add the hot pasta directly into the casserole dish with the Boursin and roasted tomatoes. Pour in the reserved pasta water, add the hot sauce, and stir in the last tablespoon of Cajun seasoning for one final flavor boost. Dice the chicken and tuck it into the pasta, stirring gently to bring it all together. Serve immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a fresh pop of green and an aromatic finishing touch to this colorful dish. For a little more richness, a light dusting of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving can make each bite even more luxurious.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, balancing out the creamy, spicy pasta. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is also an excellent companion, perfect for scooping up every last bit of that velvety sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta straight from the casserole dish for a warm, inviting family-style meal, or plate individual servings garnished with herbs and a wedge of lemon for a bright twist. You can even use colorful bowls to emphasize the vibrant reds and creamy whites, making your table look just as delicious as the food tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more with time, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to save this pasta for longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best texture retention, freeze before adding any fresh herbs or garnishes. Thaw completely overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a covered skillet or microwave to prevent drying out. Add a splash of water or broth while warming to bring back that creamy, saucy magic. Stir occasionally so everything heats evenly and maintains that smooth, luscious consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or medium shells are ideal for holding the sauce, other pastas like rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle work beautifully. Choose what you have on hand or your favorite shape to make it your own.
Is there a substitute for Boursin cheese?
While Boursin cheese provides a unique garlic and herb creaminess, you can substitute with cream cheese mixed with garlic powder and dried herbs if needed. However, the flavor won’t be quite as rich or layered.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?
The Cajun seasoning adds a moderate heat with a smoky, savory depth. If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount or balance it with a little extra Boursin cheese. Conversely, add more hot sauce if you love a fiery kick.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
You can season and slice the chicken a few hours ahead and store it wrapped in the fridge. The cheese and tomatoes can also be assembled in the casserole dish before baking. This makes dinner assembly quick and stress-free.
What’s the best way to adjust this recipe for more servings?
Simply increase all ingredient quantities proportionally and use a larger casserole dish if needed. Cooking times might extend slightly, especially for the chicken, so keep an eye on doneness to ensure everything stays juicy and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures that anyone can make at home. With its creamy cheese sauce, juicy roasted tomatoes, and perfectly seasoned chicken, it’s sure to become one of your favorite dishes in the kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy that comes with a truly satisfying pasta meal.
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Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Baked Boursin Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful, creamy, and spicy one-dish meal featuring tender cajun-seasoned chicken breasts roasted alongside garlic herb Boursin cheese and cherry tomatoes. Combined with perfectly cooked penne pasta and a touch of hot sauce, this dish offers a delightful blend of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors with minimal effort and a quick 40-minute cook time.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 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 Seasoning
- 1 pound penne pasta (or medium pasta shells)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
Instructions
- Preheat oven. Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to get it ready for roasting the chicken and vegetables.
- Prepare the chicken. Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces. Coat the chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and then rub in 3 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning evenly. Place the seasoned chicken pieces on a baking sheet.
- Prepare the cheese and tomatoes. In a 9×13-inch oven-safe casserole dish, add the Boursin cheese and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the tomatoes with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then season with ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Roast chicken and cheese mixture. Place both the baking sheet with chicken and the casserole dish with cheese and tomatoes into the preheated oven. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the tomatoes are tender.
- Cook pasta. While the baking is underway, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil on the stovetop. Add the penne pasta or shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Remove dishes from oven. Take the casserole dish and baking sheet out of the oven. Transfer the cooked chicken from the baking sheet onto a cutting board for slicing.
- Combine pasta with sauce. To the casserole dish with the melted Boursin and roasted tomatoes, add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, hot sauce, and the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir everything thoroughly to create a creamy, spicy sauce coating the pasta.
- Slice chicken and serve. Dice the roasted chicken into bite-sized pieces and gently fold into the pasta mixture. Serve immediately for the best flavor and temperature.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of hot sauce to your preferred spice level.
- Using fresh cherry tomatoes adds a nice burst of sweetness and juices; alternatively, roma tomatoes can be used.
- Feel free to substitute penne with any medium-sized pasta you prefer, such as rigatoni or shells.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute the Boursin cheese with a plant-based creamy cheese alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
