If you’re craving a dish that feels like sunshine in every bite, the Lemon Chicken Boursin Pasta Salad Recipe is going to be your new best friend. This vibrant pasta salad perfectly balances zesty lemon, creamy Boursin cheese, and tender chicken, all tossed together with fresh veggies and herbs. It’s a refreshing, satisfying meal that works wonderfully for warm-weather lunches, potlucks, or easy weeknight dinners. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again because it’s seriously that delicious and versatile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with a layer of yellow bowtie pasta at the bottom spreads evenly. On top, to the right, there are slices of cooked light brown chicken arranged neatly. Next to the chicken, a pile of bright red halved cherry tomatoes sits on the pasta. To the left of the tomatoes, finely chopped purple onions cover the pasta layer. Above the onions, there are diced green cucumbers. In the middle, a generous scoop of creamy white sauce with a slightly thick texture is placed. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface with a green cloth and wooden utensils nearby, along with a white plate holding halved and whole yellow lemons at the top left, and a bunch of fresh green parsley at the top right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this Lemon Chicken Boursin Pasta Salad Recipe are simple but essential, each bringing a unique flavor or texture that makes this salad a true standout. From the tender lemon-marinated chicken to the creamy Boursin dressing, every element plays a crucial role in bringing the dish to life.

1½ lbs boneless (skinless chicken breast): The star protein, juicy and perfect for soaking up the lemony marinade.
Zest of 1 lemon: Adds bright, citrus aroma and a fresh pop of flavor.
3 tbsp lemon juice: The key to that tangy, refreshing bite throughout the salad.
2 tbsp olive oil: Gives richness to the marinade and dressing without overpowering other flavors.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Offers a savory depth that complements the herbs beautifully.
1 tsp dried oregano: A hint of earthiness that ties the chicken marinade together.
½ tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing overall taste.
12 oz bowtie pasta: The perfect shape to hold the creamy dressing and mix with all ingredients evenly.
1 cup English cucumber (diced): Adds crunch and a cooling contrast to the salad.
1½ cups cherry tomatoes (halved): Sweet and juicy bursts of color that brighten each forkful.
⅓ cup red onion (finely diced): Offers a subtle bite that sharpens the flavor profile.
¼ cup fresh parsley or basil (chopped): Fresh herbs elevate the salad with aromatic brightness.
1 5 oz Boursin cheese (Garlic & Herb): Creamy, flavorful cheese that makes the dressing irresistibly rich.
¾ cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds healthy creaminess and tang without heaviness.
2-3 tbsp lemon juice: Used in the dressing to keep that refreshing citrus note consistent.
1 tbsp olive oil: Smooths out the dressing and adds a silky texture.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): To season the dressing perfectly.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Boursin Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl or zip-top bag. Toss your chicken breasts in this vibrant marinade and let them soak up those flavors for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating it overnight intensifies that zesty, herby punch that makes this chicken unforgettable.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

You have a few great options here—grill it for a lovely char and smoky notes, pan-sear it on the stovetop for a golden crust, or bake it in the oven for an easy hands-off approach. Whichever method you choose, cook your chicken until it’s fully done and juicy inside. Give it a 5-minute rest before slicing or dicing, so those flavorful juices stay locked in.

Step 3: Prepare the Pasta

While your chicken is resting, boil your bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente—perfectly tender but still with a slight bite. Once drained, let it cool just a little because you want your salad to retain a fresh texture without any clumping.

Step 4: Whip Up the Creamy Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Boursin cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The result is a luscious, tangy dressing that brings silky richness and fresh garlic-herb flavor, tying every part of the salad together with creamy perfection.

Step 5: Toss the Salad

Now it’s time for the magic. Combine the cooked pasta, juicy chicken, crisp cucumber, sweet cherry tomatoes, zesty red onion, and fresh herbs in a large bowl. Pour your Boursin dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly. Let the salad chill in the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully and the salad tastes even more incredible.

How to Serve Lemon Chicken Boursin Pasta Salad Recipe

A large white bowl filled with creamy bowtie pasta mixed with small, round red cherry tomatoes, green cucumber pieces, and sliced light beige chicken. The pasta is well-coated with a white cream sauce and sprinkled with chopped fresh green parsley. Two wooden spoons rest inside the bowl, one slightly lifted showing a mix of pasta, tomatoes, and chicken. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface next to a green cloth with white stripes. In the background, there is a white plate with halved yellow lemons and fresh green parsley scattered around. The overall scene looks bright and fresh. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra lemon zest or a few torn basil leaves on top brings an eye-catching pop and enhances that fresh citrus-herb aroma just before serving. A few cracked black pepper flakes add a finishing touch of boldness that’s impossible to resist.

Side Dishes

Serve this salad alongside crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded, refreshing meal. It also pairs beautifully with grilled asparagus or roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious spread at your next gathering.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving this pasta salad in hollowed-out lemon halves for a charming presentation, or spoon it into mini lettuce cups for bite-sized appetizers. For a picnic, pack it in a pretty jar layered with ingredients for a grab-and-go lunch that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Lemon Chicken Boursin Pasta Salad Recipe keeps really well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Flavors actually deepen, making leftovers possibly even better than day one. Just give it a quick toss before serving again.

Freezing

Because of the creamy dressing and fresh vegetables, freezing is not recommended for this salad. It’s best enjoyed fresh or well-chilled to maintain the vibrant textures and flavors.

Reheating

If you want to reheat the chicken separately, you can gently warm it in a skillet or microwave. However, this pasta salad is meant to be eaten cold or at room temperature, so enjoy it straight from the fridge for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta in the Lemon Chicken Boursin Pasta Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is perfect for holding onto the dressing, penne, rotini, or farfalle all work beautifully and offer different textures that keep things interesting.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can swap the Boursin for a dairy-free herb cheese or use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and substitute the Greek yogurt with coconut or almond yogurt. The lemon and herbs will still shine through wonderfully.

How long should I marinate the chicken for best flavor?

At least 30 minutes is necessary to get great flavor, but if you have time, marinating the chicken overnight will deeply infuse those lemon and garlic notes, making the chicken even tastier.

Can I prepare this pasta salad in advance for a party?

Definitely! It’s a fantastic make-ahead dish. Prepare everything the day before, toss with the dressing right before serving, and let it chill for that perfect blend of flavors.

What’s the best way to keep the pasta from sticking together?

Make sure to cook the pasta al dente and toss it immediately in a little olive oil after draining. Cooling the pasta slightly before mixing it with the dressing helps keep the texture light and satisfyingly separate.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Lemon Chicken Boursin Pasta Salad Recipe enough for anyone looking to brighten up their meal rotation with something fresh, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and just so delicious that it’s sure to become a new classic in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be sharing this recipe with everyone you know!