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#### Instructions:
##### Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
1. Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest. Once rested, slice the chicken into thin strips.
##### Step 2: Cook the Pasta
1. While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.
##### Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
1. In the same skillet that you cooked the chicken in, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Heat over medium heat.
2. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped shallot and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly.
5. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
6. Stir in the Boursin cheese, letting it melt into the sauce, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
##### Step 4: Combine the Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
1. Once the sauce has thickened and is smooth, add the sliced chicken back into the skillet. Stir to combine the chicken with the sauce.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until it’s well coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
##### Step 5: Garnish and Serve
1. Once everything is combined, plate the pasta and chicken.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a burst of color and flavor.
3. Serve immediately, enjoying the rich, creamy goodness of this delicious pasta dish.
### Tips for the Perfect Pasta with Chicken and Boursin Creamy Sauce
– **Chicken Options:** If you prefer darker meat, chicken thighs are a great option for this dish. They are juicy and flavorful and will add a slightly richer taste to the dish.
– **Pasta Choices:** While fettuccine is ideal, any pasta shape can work with this sauce. Try rigatoni or penne if you prefer short pasta, as the sauce will cling to the crevices of these shapes.
– **Make it Spicy:** For a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce while cooking the garlic. It will add a subtle warmth without overpowering the dish.
– **Vegetarian Version:** If you want to make this dish vegetarian, you can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or another protein of your choice, like tofu or tempeh.
– **Make-Ahead:** The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
### Conclusion
Pasta with Chicken and Boursin Creamy Sauce is a perfect blend of creamy, savory, and hearty flavors that come together in a comforting and satisfying dish. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal for family and friends, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of the creamy Boursin sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a mouthwatering dish that’s hard to resist.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, this dish proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. So, gather your ingredients, follow the recipe, and treat yourself to a luxurious pasta dish that will quickly become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy!
