Slow Cooker Boursin Chicken is a deliciously creamy and flavorful dish that makes dinner super easy and satisfying. The star ingredient here is Boursin cheese, which melts into the chicken while it cooks low and slow, giving the whole meal a rich, garlicky, and herby twist. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, soaking up the creamy sauce that’s perfect for anyone who loves simple comfort food with a little extra flair.
I love how hands-off this recipe is — just toss the chicken and cheese into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you get on with your day. I often sneak in some extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach to add a bit of color and texture to the meal. It feels like such a treat, but without any fuss or complicated steps.
My favorite way to serve Slow Cooker Boursin Chicken is over rice or pasta to catch all that creamy sauce. Sometimes I add a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad to keep things light and easy. This dish is a real crowd-pleaser whenever I make it for family or friends, and I always get asked for the recipe afterward — it’s that good and effortless!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken Breasts
- Boneless, skinless breasts work best, but thighs can add extra juiciness if preferred. Thighs have more fat and flavor, but cook in about the same time.
- Boursin Cheese
- This is the hero ingredient for creamy garlic and herb flavor. If you can’t find Boursin, cream cheese mixed with garlic powder and dried herbs makes a great substitute.
- Celery & Onion
- These veggies add subtle flavor and texture to the sauce. If you don’t have celery on hand, bell peppers make a nice alternative with a little sweetness.
- Chicken Broth
- Adds moisture and depth. Use low sodium broth to control salt levels. Water can work in a pinch but broth gives much better flavor.
How Can I Make the Chicken Tender and the Sauce Creamy in the Slow Cooker?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker can sometimes dry it out, but a few tips help keep it tender and get that rich sauce:
- Lightly sear the chicken first to lock in juices and add flavor. Skip if short on time, but it really helps.
- Cook on low heat for 4-5 hours. High heat can make meat tough.
- Don’t lift the lid during cooking — keeps the moisture in.
- Add Boursin cheese near the start so it melts gently into the broth.
- After cooking, shred some chicken into the sauce and stir gently for a creamy texture.
With these tips, your chicken will stay juicy and the sauce thick and flavorful just like in the picture!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – the key for cooking chicken low and slow to keep it tender and juicy.
- Skillet or frying pan – handy for searing chicken to add flavor before slow cooking.
- Knife and cutting board – to chop onion, celery, and garlic easily.
- Spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce and mixing ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Meat thermometer (optional) – helps check chicken is cooked safely to 165°F.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs for richer flavor and juicier meat.
- Add sliced mushrooms or baby spinach for extra veggies and nutrients.
- Try substituting Boursin with herbed cream cheese or goat cheese for a different creamy twist.
- Stir in cooked bacon bits or sun-dried tomatoes before serving for a smoky or tangy touch.
Slow Cooker Boursin Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 package (4 oz) Boursin cheese (garlic and herb flavor)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Plan for about 10 minutes of prep time and 4 to 5 hours of cooking time in a slow cooker on the low setting. This makes it an easy dish to prepare ahead or let cook while you focus on other things.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step adds flavor but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
2. Set Up the Slow Cooker:
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. In a bowl, mix chopped onion, celery, garlic, dried parsley, dried thyme, and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
3. Add the Boursin Cheese:
Place spoonfuls of Boursin cheese evenly atop the chicken. As it cooks, the cheese will melt and create a creamy, flavorful sauce.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Finish and Serve:
Carefully remove the chicken. You can shred some pieces into the sauce for extra texture. Stir the sauce gently to combine the melted cheese with the broth and vegetables. If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it gently on the stove for a few minutes. Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to enjoy every bit of the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. Using frozen chicken can increase cooking time and affect the texture.
Can I Skip Searing the Chicken?
Absolutely! Searing adds extra flavor and color, but the dish will still taste delicious if you skip this step. Just place the raw chicken directly into the slow cooker.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers along with the onion and celery for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them and add them into the slow cooker at the same time.