Simple Tarragon Chicken Salad
This Simple Tarragon Chicken Salad is a timeless classic, offering a perfect balance of creamy texture and bright, aromatic flavor. It's incredibly quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying and healthy meal any day of the week.
For 4 servings
Ensure your cooked chicken breast is cooled. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands, then set aside.
Finely dice the celery rib and mince the red onion. Aim for small, consistent pieces for even distribution of flavor and texture.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, dried tarragon, and fresh lemon juice. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Season the mayonnaise base with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to incorporate.
Add the shredded chicken, diced celery, and minced red onion to the seasoned mayonnaise mixture. Gently fold all ingredients together using a spatula until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated.
Taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, tarragon, or a squeeze of lemon juice to suit your preference.
For the best flavor development, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
Serve the chilled tarragon chicken salad on a bed of fresh lettuce, in lettuce cups for a low-carb option, as a sandwich filling, or with your favorite crackers.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Chicken Prep:** For the best texture, use chicken breast that has been poached or baked until just cooked through, then cooled completely before shredding. Overcooked chicken can be dry.
- 2**Flavor Melding:** While delicious immediately, this chicken salad truly shines after chilling for at least 30 minutes (or up to a few hours). This allows the tarragon and other flavors to fully infuse the chicken.
- 3**Consistency Control:** If you prefer a looser chicken salad, you can add an extra tablespoon or two of mayonnaise or a splash of milk/chicken broth. For a thicker salad, ensure your chicken is well-drained.
- 4**Serving Versatility:** Beyond sandwiches and lettuce wraps, try serving this chicken salad stuffed into hollowed-out tomatoes, bell peppers, or avocados for an elegant presentation.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add-ins
Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch, or 1/4 cup of red grapes (halved) for a touch of sweetness and fruitiness.
Herb SwapHerb Swap
Replace dried tarragon with 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped tarragon for a more vibrant, intense flavor. Or, try a mix of fresh dill and parsley for a different aromatic profile.
Protein AlternativeProtein Alternative
Substitute the chicken with canned tuna (well-drained) or cooked, flaked salmon for a delicious seafood salad variation.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Protein
Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and satiety, helping you feel full longer.
Rich in Healthy Fats (with mindful mayo)
Using a good quality mayonnaise (especially avocado oil-based) can provide healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and nutrient absorption.
Vegetable Boost
Celery and red onion contribute important vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, supporting digestive health and providing antioxidants.
Frequently asked questions
When stored in an airtight container, this chicken salad will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. It's best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
