Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Cooking Fats
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (plus extra as needed)
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons brown onion, finely diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 3/4 cup low or no sodium chicken broth
- 1 (5.2 ounce) package Boursin Fine Herbs & Garlic Cheese
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, finely grated (optional)
Instructions
- Dry the Chicken Thighs: Remove the chicken thighs from the package and thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This step is crucial to achieve a golden crust and avoid tough chicken.
- Sear the First Side: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes, then add the olive oil and heat for another 30 seconds. Using tongs or a fork, carefully place the chicken thighs in the skillet and cook for 7-9 minutes until the chicken easily lifts from the pan and the cooked side is a light golden brown.
- Add Butter and Brown Chicken: Add butter to the pan and swirl it. Lift the chicken from the pan, then set it back to cook another minute so it develops a rich golden brown color on that side.
- Cook the Other Side: Using tongs or a fork, turn the chicken to the second side and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until an internal thermometer reads 165°F. Add extra butter, swirl to coat, and cook for another 30-60 seconds for an extra golden finish.
- Set Chicken Aside: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside while preparing the sauce.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add more olive oil to the skillet if needed. Sauté the finely diced brown onions for 3-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add Seasonings and Broth: Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Pour in the low or no sodium chicken broth and heat through until just simmering.
- Melt Boursin Cheese: Add the Boursin Fine Herbs & Garlic Cheese to the skillet and stir continuously as it melts into the broth, creating a creamy sauce. Let the sauce cook for 2-3 minutes until fully combined and heated through.
- Finish the Sauce and Reheat Chicken: Stir in the parmesan cheese if using. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce, and cook an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through. If the sauce is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of water, milk, or cream to loosen it.
- Serve: Plate the chicken thighs generously coated in the Boursin cheese sauce and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Patting the chicken dry before searing is essential for achieving a golden crust and preventing moisture release which can make the chicken tough.
- Boursin cheese melts easily; keep the heat moderate when making the sauce to avoid curdling.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce with water, milk, or cream as needed depending on your texture preference.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking.
- Optional parmesan cheese adds an extra nutty, salty flavor to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-inspired