Easy Slow Cooker Boursin Chicken and Pasta Recipe

Cook Time: 155 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
• 1 can Italian-style diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 (5.2 ounce) packages garlic and herb flavored Gournay cheese (such as Boursin)
• 5 ounces baby spinach
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Place the chicken into the slow cooker. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste. Top with the Italian-style diced tomatoes and pour the chicken broth around the chicken.

Step 2: Cook on High for 2 hours or on Low for 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 3: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and cut it into 1-inch pieces. Return the chicken back into the slow cooker.

Step 4: Stir in the orzo pasta and the Boursin cheese. Continue cooking on High for an additional 35 to 40 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Add the baby spinach to the slow cooker and stir until the spinach is wilted. Season with more salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Optionally, stir in the lemon juice for a burst of freshness.

Step 7: Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful chicken, orzo, and spinach dish!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	448
Total Fat	20g	26%
Saturated Fat	10g	51%
Cholesterol	145mg	48%
Sodium	967mg	42%
Total Carbohydrate	15g	5%
Dietary Fiber	2g	6%
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	49g	99%
Vitamin C	11mg	12%
Calcium	398mg	31%
Iron	3mg	15%
Potassium	577mg	12%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Boursin Chicken and Pasta

The combination of chicken, pasta, and creamy Boursin cheese is a modern twist on comfort food that traces its roots to French culinary innovation. Boursin cheese itself was created in Normandy in 1957 by Franois Boursin, who wanted a spreadable cheese infused with herbs and garlic. Its popularity in home cooking quickly spread beyond France, inspiring easy-to-make dishes that highlight creamy textures and rich flavors. The integration of Boursin into a slow cooker chicken recipe reflects the adaptation of French-inspired ingredients to convenient, everyday American meals.

Regional Variations and Adaptations

While the core ingredientschicken, pasta, and Boursinremain the same, different regions have adapted this dish to local tastes. In the United States, it is common to use orzo or penne pasta and incorporate spinach for added nutrition. In European versions, chefs may substitute the pasta with gnocchi or use regional herbs to enhance the cheeses flavor. The dish is flexible enough to accommodate variations in seasoning, liquid content, and cooking method, allowing each home cook to create a version that fits local palates.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Boursin chicken pasta stands apart from classic creamy pasta dishes like Alfredo or Carbonara primarily due to the cheese used. While Alfredo relies on Parmesan and cream, Boursin provides a distinct garlic-and-herb profile that infuses the chicken and pasta evenly. Unlike traditional casseroles, this dish is made in a slow cooker, which allows the chicken to remain tender and the sauce to develop a layered flavor without constant supervision. Its balance of creamy, tangy, and savory notes makes it unique among quick comfort foods.

Typical Serving Contexts

This dish is most often served as a family dinner or casual gathering meal. Its one-pot preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining friends without extensive effort. Restaurants that focus on contemporary American cuisine may offer a similar version, but in homes, it is commonly paired with a simple green salad or crusty bread. The hearty nature of the dish makes it versatile, suitable for both lunch and dinner occasions, and it often improves in flavor the following day as the ingredients meld.

Interesting Facts and Tips

One interesting aspect of this recipe is its adaptability; it can be easily modified for dietary preferences by using gluten-free pasta or a lighter cheese alternative. The slow cooker method not only saves time but also enhances the depth of flavor as the chicken cooks gently in the broth and tomato mixture. Another fun fact is that Boursin cheese, originally designed for spreading on bread, transforms into a luscious sauce when melted, turning a simple chicken and pasta dish into a gourmet-style meal. Additionally, adding a touch of lemon juice at the end brightens the dish, balancing its richness and providing a fresh contrast.

FAQ about Easy Slow Cooker Boursin Chicken and Pasta Recipe

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