Tarragon Chicken Salad

Looking for a refreshing, yet flavorful dish that feels both light and indulgent? Let me introduce you to this Tarragon Chicken Salad—it’s everything you want in a summer salad, with a bit of a gourmet twist. Picture tender, juicy chicken, perfectly complemented by a creamy dressing laced with the subtle, fragrant notes of tarragon. Add in crisp vegetables and a squeeze of lemon, and you’ve got yourself a bowl of pure comfort that’s elegant enough for any occasion.

Whether you’re preparing it for a picnic, enjoying it on a busy day, or sharing it at a family gathering, this Tarragon Chicken Salad is the perfect balance of fresh, savory, and creamy. Trust me, you’re going to love how simple it is to make and how it brings those refreshing flavors to life with every bite.

Why You’ll Love Tarragon Chicken Salad

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy lunch or looking to impress at a summer barbecue, this dish is versatile enough to shine in any setting.

Is this Tarragon Chicken Salad for you? Let’s see.

1. Herb-packed freshness: The tarragon adds a touch of herbal elegance that’s both savory and fragrant.
2. Perfectly balanced: With a creamy, tangy dressing and crisp veggies, every bite offers a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor.
3. Quick & easy: A simple recipe that comes together in minutes, yet feels like a gourmet treat.
4. Versatile: Serve it as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a hearty sandwich filling.
5. Customizable: Add your favorite crunchy nuts or fruits for extra texture and sweetness.

Quick Tip: For an extra creamy twist, swap out some of the mayo for Greek yogurt!

Ingredients in Tarragon Chicken Salad

Let’s break down the key ingredients that make this salad so delicious:

• Shredded Chicken: You’ll need tender chicken, either from a rotisserie or freshly cooked. It’s the base of your salad and holds all those great flavors.
• Tarragon: The star herb! Its slightly aniseed flavor adds a unique twist that makes this salad stand out.
• Celery: For that refreshing crunch and a mild flavor that contrasts perfectly with the creaminess of the dressing.
• Red Onion: Adds a subtle sharpness and vibrant color to your salad.
• Greek Yogurt & Mayo: These combine to create a creamy, tangy base that perfectly complements the chicken and veggies.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the salad and adds a zesty touch.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, of course! These are essential for bringing out all the flavors.
• Walnuts (Optional): For a little extra crunch and a nutty flavor.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions: Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

1. Combine the Chicken and Veggies: In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken, diced celery, and red onion. Toss them together to distribute everything evenly.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, mayo, tarragon, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Dress the Chicken: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Make sure not to overmix to preserve the texture.
4. Garnish and Serve: If you’re using walnuts, sprinkle them on top for a little extra crunch and richness. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to eat!

Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Fresh Greens: Serve the salad on a bed of fresh greens, such as arugula or spinach, for a lighter, refreshing bite.
• Crusty Bread: Pair it with some warm, crusty bread for a heartier meal. A simple baguette works wonderfully to soak up any leftover dressing.
• Crispy Crackers: Serve with crunchy crackers for a fun, bite-sized addition to the meal.
• Avocado: Add a slice of ripe avocado on top for extra creaminess and a dose of healthy fats.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Prep Ahead: This salad keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days, so you can make it ahead of time for easy meal prep.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the dressing a little extra kick.
• Dietary Adjustments: For a lighter version, use all Greek yogurt instead of mayo. You can also make it dairy-free by using a dairy-free yogurt and mayo.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best served fresh, but it’ll still be delicious the next day!

Tips & Variations

• Ingredient Swaps: If you’re not a fan of tarragon, you can try dill or parsley for a different herbal flavor.
• Extra Protein: Add some cooked bacon crumbles or grilled chicken for a heartier salad.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream?
A1: Yes, sour cream will give you a slightly tangy flavor, but it’s a great option if you’re out of Greek yogurt.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! This salad keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. Just make sure to store the dressing separately if you want to keep the veggies extra crisp.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for a quick lunch the next day!

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the dressing can separate when thawed. Best enjoyed fresh!

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Since this is a salad, it’s best served chilled or at room temperature. No reheating required!

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Absolutely! Doubling the recipe is perfect if you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers for the week.

Conclusion

There you have it, a Tarragon Chicken Salad that’s creamy, fresh, and totally irresistible. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a side dish for a get-together. With its delicate flavor and simple ingredients, this salad is guaranteed to become one of your go-to recipes. Enjoy!