This Boursin pasta is way better than the viral feta pasta
This Boursin pasta is way better than the viral feta pasta is a easy Italian-American recipe that serves 4. 620 calories per serving. Recipe by Olivia Yi on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 55 min
Cost: $17.70 total, $4.43 per serving
Ingredients
- 12 oz Penne Pasta (dry penne or any short pasta)
- 2 pack Boursin Garlic & Herb Cheese (5.2 oz each, soft spreadable cheese)
- 2 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
- 2 piece Chicken Breast (about 1 lb total, cut into bite‑size pieces)
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil (extra‑virgin recommended)
- 1 tsp Salt (to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 0.25 cup Fresh Basil (packed, roughly torn)
- 0.25 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
- 0.5 cup Reserved Pasta Water (starchy water saved from boiling pasta)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 425°F (220°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the ingredients.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 425°F
Prep Ingredients
Halve the cherry tomatoes, cut the chicken breasts into bite‑size pieces, and roughly tear the fresh basil.
Time: PT10M
Assemble Roasting Pan
Spread the halved tomatoes in a single layer on the large baking pan, place the two Boursin packs on top, drizzle generously with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Time: PT3M
Roast Tomatoes and Boursin
Place the pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 20 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and the Boursin is melted and slightly browned.
Time: PT20M
Temperature: 425°F
Boil Pasta
While the tomatoes roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the penne, and cook al dente according to package directions (usually 10‑11 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of the starchy cooking water before draining.
Time: PT10M
Cook Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium‑high heat, add a splash of olive oil, then add the chicken pieces. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper and sauté until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
Time: PT8M
Drain Pasta
Drain the cooked pasta in a colander, returning it to the pot or a large mixing bowl.
Time: PT2M
Combine Everything
Add the roasted tomato‑Boursin mixture and the cooked chicken to the pasta. Toss gently, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency. Stir in the fresh basil and grated Parmesan; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Time: PT5M
Plate and Serve
Divide the pasta among plates or bowls, drizzle any remaining pan juices over the top, and finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 620
- Protein
- 32 g
- Carbohydrates
- 68 g
- Fat
- 22 g
- Fiber
- 4 g
Dietary info: High‑protein, Contains cheese
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Penne Pasta: any short pasta, gluten‑free pasta
- Instead of Boursin Garlic & Herb Cheese: cream cheese mixed with herbs, herb goat cheese
- Instead of Cherry Tomatoes: regular tomatoes diced
- Instead of Chicken Breast: turkey breast, firm tofu for vegetarian
- Instead of Olive Oil: vegetable oil
- Instead of Salt: sea salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: white pepper
- Instead of Fresh Basil: Italian parsley
- Instead of Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano
- Instead of Reserved Pasta Water: low‑salt chicken stock
Equipment Needed
- Large Baking Pan
- Oven
- Large Pot
- Skillet
- Colander
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Wooden Spoon or Tongs
- Cheese Grater (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Roasting the Boursin with tomatoes until fully melted and slightly browned
- Cooking the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F
- Combining the pasta with the roasted sauce and adding reserved pasta water for the right creaminess
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- A handful of fresh basil added at the end brightens the dish.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red‑pepper flakes with the chicken.
Troubleshooting
The sauce is too dry.
Add more reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the sauce becomes creamy.
Chicken is undercooked.
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; continue cooking until it reaches 165°F.
Boursin sticks to the pan and doesn’t melt evenly.
Break the cheese into smaller pieces before adding to the pan and stir once during roasting.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3‑4 days.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended because the cheese may separate, but you can freeze for up to 1 month and reheat gently.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Roast the tomatoes and Boursin a day ahead; reheat gently before mixing with pasta.
- Cook the chicken in advance and store in the fridge; add to the dish just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Boursin cheese in Italian‑American cuisine?
Boursin, a French herb‑flavored cheese, became popular in American kitchens for its creamy texture and easy meltability. Italian‑American home cooks adopted it as a shortcut to traditional herb‑butter sauces, blending French flair with classic pasta dishes.
How does Boursin roasted tomato chicken pasta reflect modern American weeknight dinner trends?
The recipe embodies the current trend of quick, one‑pan meals that deliver bold flavor with minimal cleanup. It combines convenience (store‑bought Boursin) with fresh ingredients, fitting the busy lifestyle of many American families.
What traditional Italian pasta dishes are similar to this Boursin cheese pasta?
Classic Italian dishes like Pasta alla Caprese or Pasta al Pomodoro with a creamy cheese finish (e.g., using mozzarella or ricotta) share the concept of tomato‑based sauces enriched with dairy. The Boursin version is a modern, richer twist on those classics.
What regional variations exist for pasta dishes that combine cheese and roasted tomatoes in Italy?
In Southern Italy, roasted tomatoes are often paired with pecorino or mozzarella in dishes like Pasta alla Norma. In the North, creamy sauces featuring gorgonzola or taleggio are common. Each region balances acidity with local cheese varieties.
What occasions or celebrations is a creamy cheese pasta like this typically served in American households?
Creamy cheese pastas are popular for casual family dinners, pot‑luck gatherings, and weekend get‑togethers. Their comforting nature makes them a go‑to for birthday celebrations or game‑day meals.
What authentic ingredients are traditionally used in Italian pasta sauces versus the Boursin cheese used here?
Traditional Italian sauces rely on olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, tomatoes, and cheeses such as Parmesan, Pecorino, or mozzarella. Boursin replaces the cheese component with a pre‑flavored, herb‑infused spread, offering a shortcut but a different flavor profile.
What other Italian‑American dishes pair well with Boursin roasted tomato chicken pasta?
Serve it alongside a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, garlic‑bread, or a crisp Caesar salad. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or a light Chianti complements the creamy sauce nicely.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Boursin roasted tomato chicken pasta?
Common errors include over‑roasting the Boursin until it burns, under‑cooking the chicken, and not reserving pasta water, which leads to a dry sauce. Also, adding too much cheese at the end can make the dish overly heavy.
How do I know when the Boursin cheese has melted enough and the sauce is ready?
The Boursin will turn glossy and start to bubble around the edges of the tomatoes. When you stir, it should blend into a smooth, creamy coating that clings to the pasta without separating.
What does the YouTube channel Olivia Yi specialize in?
Olivia Yi’s YouTube channel focuses on fast, flavorful home‑cooking tutorials that blend Asian and Western influences. She emphasizes pantry‑friendly ingredients, clear step‑by‑step visuals, and meals that can be prepared in 30 minutes or less.
Last updated: August 28, 2026
