Tarragon Chicken Salad is a popular dish that belongs to the French cuisine. It is a delightful combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing flavored with the distinctive herb, tarragon. This salad is often enjoyed as a light and refreshing meal or as a filling for sandwiches.
One of the peculiarities of Tarragon Chicken Salad is the use of tarragon, which gives it a unique and aromatic flavor. Tarragon is an herb with a slight licorice-like taste, adding a delicate and tangy note to the dish. The chicken is typically poached or roasted, resulting in tender and juicy meat that pairs perfectly with the crispness of the vegetables.
Tarragon Chicken Salad is commonly prepared during the warmer months, making it a popular choice for picnics, barbecues, and outdoor gatherings. Its refreshing taste and light texture make it an ideal dish for hot summer days. The salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld together and intensify.
The taste and aroma of Tarragon Chicken Salad are a delightful blend of savory, tangy, and herbaceous notes. The creamy dressing, combined with the fragrant tarragon, creates a truly mouthwatering experience. The texture of the dish is also noteworthy, with the tender chicken contrasting with the crunchiness of vegetables like celery, bell peppers, and onions.
Apart from its delicious flavor profile, Tarragon Chicken Salad offers numerous features and usefulness. It is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual preferences by adding ingredients such as grapes, apples, or nuts for extra texture and sweetness. Additionally, this salad is a great way to incorporate lean protein into one’s diet, making it a healthy option. It can be enjoyed on its own, as a side dish, or even as a filling for sandwiches or wraps, providing a satisfying and nutritious meal option.
Cooking equipment
- A sharp knife for cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- A cutting board to provide a safe and stable surface for slicing ingredients.
- A mixing bowl to combine all the delicious ingredients together.
- A whisk to beat the mayonnaise, mustard, and lemon juice into a creamy dressing.
- A wooden spoon for gently stirring the chicken and dressing until well-coated.
- A garlic press to extract the flavorful essence of fresh garlic cloves.
- A zester to grate the zest of a lemon, adding a zingy citrus note to the salad.
- A box grater to shred the carrots, creating vibrant ribbons of color and texture.
- A pair of tongs for tossing and serving the salad with ease.
- A set of measuring spoons to ensure the perfect balance of spices and herbs.
- A can opener to effortlessly access the can of artichoke hearts, a delightful addition to the salad.
- A colander to drain the cooked chicken, ensuring it’s moist and tender.
- A pepper mill to freshly grind black pepper, enhancing the salad’s savory flavors.
- An oven mitt to handle the baking sheet when roasting the chicken breasts to perfection.
- A silicone spatula for scraping every last bit of dressing from the mixing bowl.
- A handful of fresh tarragon leaves, finely chopped, for that distinctive herby taste.
- Two boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and cooled before being diced.
- Half a cup of mayonnaise, providing a creamy base for the dressing.
- A teaspoon of Dijon mustard, adding a tangy kick to the salad.
- The juice of one lemon, lending a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Two cloves of garlic, crushed to release their aromatic essence.
- The zest of one lemon, grated to infuse the salad with a burst of citrusy brightness.
- Two medium-sized carrots, shredded to create colorful ribbons.
- A can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped, for a delightful twist.
- A pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to season the salad to perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup of celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup of red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup of fresh tarragon leaves, minced
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 cup of sliced almonds, toasted
To create this delightful Tarragon Chicken Salad, gather 2 cups of tender cooked chicken and shred it into tantalizing morsels. Combine this with a cup of finely chopped celery, which adds a refreshing crunch to every bite.
Next, add a burst of flavor with half a cup of diced red onion. Its vibrant hue and zesty taste will elevate the overall dish. To enhance the aromatic profile, finely mince a quarter cup of fresh tarragon leaves and sprinkle them into the mix. The tarragon’s distinct anise-like essence will dance on your taste buds.
Don’t forget to include a quarter cup of fresh parsley, providing a vibrant green touch and a hint of earthiness. Parsley’s herbaceous notes will harmonize beautifully with the other ingredients.
To bind all these delightful components together, introduce a quarter cup of creamy mayonnaise. Its velvety texture will envelop each ingredient in a luscious embrace, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors.
For a tangy twist, add two tablespoons of Dijon mustard. This condiment’s sharpness will awaken your palate, infusing the salad with a delightful zing. To balance the tanginess, squeeze in two tablespoons of lemon juice, lending a citrusy brightness to the dish.
For a touch of natural sweetness, drizzle in a tablespoon of honey. Its golden nectar will delicately coat each ingredient, adding a subtle hint of sweetness that complements the savory elements perfectly.
Season your creation with a quarter teaspoon of salt and black pepper, allowing these simple yet essential spices to enhance the overall taste profile. They will elevate the flavors to new heights without overpowering the dish.
To add a satisfying crunch and a nutty undertone, sprinkle half a cup of toasted sliced almonds on top. The almonds’ delicate crispness will provide a delightful textural contrast, taking this salad to the next level.
Now, gently toss all the ingredients together until they are beautifully combined, ensuring every morsel is coated in the creamy dressing. Allow the flavors to mingle and develop for a few minutes before serving.
This Tarragon Chicken Salad is a symphony of flavors and textures, with tender chicken, refreshing celery, zesty red onion, aromatic tarragon, herbaceous parsley, and a creamy dressing that ties everything together. Indulge in this delightful creation for a satisfying and flavorful meal that will leave you craving more.
Recipe Tarragon Chicken Salad
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- This delightful dish, Tarragon Chicken Salad, originates from the beautiful country of France.
- With its vibrant flavors and aromatic herbs, this salad is a true culinary masterpiece.
- Prepared with love and finesse, it is perfect for a refreshing lunch or a light dinner.
- The preparation time for this dish is a mere 20 minutes, allowing you to enjoy it in no time!
- Once the ingredients are gathered, the cooking process takes just 15 minutes.
- Within a short total time of 35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious salad ready to be savored.
- Tarragon Chicken Salad is a true representation of French cuisine’s elegance and charm.
- The combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and the unique flavor of tarragon creates a harmonious symphony of tastes.
- Every bite is an explosion of freshness and sophistication that will transport your taste buds to the charming streets of Paris.
- Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, this salad is sure to impress and leave a lasting impression.
Instructions
1. Start by preparing the chicken. If using leftover cooked chicken, shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. If using raw chicken breasts, season them with salt and pepper and cook them until fully cooked and juicy. Allow the cooked chicken to cool before proceeding to the next step.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or chopped chicken with mayonnaise. The amount of mayonnaise can vary depending on your preference, but start with about 1/2 cup and add more if desired. The mayonnaise will add creaminess to the salad and help bind the ingredients together.
3. Finely chop some fresh tarragon leaves. Tarragon is the star of this dish, providing a unique and slightly sweet flavor. Add the chopped tarragon to the bowl with the chicken and mayonnaise. You can adjust the amount of tarragon according to your taste, but 1-2 tablespoons should be sufficient.
4. Dice a small red onion and add it to the bowl. The red onion adds a mild sharpness and a beautiful pop of color to the salad. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the diced onion in cold water for a few minutes before adding it to the salad.
5. Cut some celery stalks into small pieces and add them to the mixing bowl. Celery brings a refreshing crunch to the salad and complements the other flavors perfectly. Aim for about 2-3 stalks of celery, depending on their size.
6. Time to add some tangy sweetness! Grab a handful of dried cranberries or raisins and sprinkle them into the bowl. These little bursts of sweetness will balance out the savory flavors and add a delightful chewiness to every bite.
7. If you’re a fan of nuts, consider adding some chopped walnuts or pecans to the mix. They will contribute a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor. Sprinkle a handful of nuts over the other ingredients and gently fold everything together.
8. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the bowl. The lemon juice will brighten up the flavors and bring a zesty tang to the salad. It also helps prevent the apples from browning if you decide to add them.
9. Speaking of apples, if you’re craving a fruity element in your Tarragon Chicken Salad, peel and chop a crisp apple into small pieces. Choose a variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a nice balance of tartness and sweetness. Add the apple pieces to the bowl and gently mix everything together.
10. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring all the flavors are perfectly balanced. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
11. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and develop. This step is essential for achieving the best taste and texture.
12. Once chilled, give the Tarragon Chicken Salad a final stir before serving. It can be enjoyed in various ways! Spread it on a sandwich or wrap, serve it on a bed of fresh greens, or simply enjoy it with some crusty bread.
13. Garnish the salad with some extra tarragon leaves for an added touch of freshness and visual appeal. Tarragon sprigs make for an elegant presentation.
14. Sit back, relax, and savor every bite of this delectable Tarragon Chicken Salad. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant tarragon, crunchy celery, and sweet cranberries or raisins will surely delight your taste buds. Enjoy!
Nutrition
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Tarragon Chicken Salad
This delicious and refreshing Tarragon Chicken Salad is not only bursting with flavor, but it also packs a punch in terms of nutrition. Let’s dive into the nutritional value of this delightful dish:
- Protein: The star of this salad is tender cooked chicken breast, which provides a generous amount of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting a healthy immune system, and promoting satiety.
- Fiber: Tarragon Chicken Salad is loaded with fiber-rich ingredients like fresh vegetables and leafy greens. Fiber aids digestion, helps maintain a healthy weight, and keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
- Healthy Fats: This salad incorporates a touch of heart-healthy fats through ingredients like olive oil and avocado. These fats provide essential fatty acids, which are important for brain function and reducing inflammation in the body.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Tarragon Chicken Salad is packed with an array of vitamins and minerals from its vibrant ingredients. For instance, the bell peppers contribute vitamin C, which supports collagen production and immune health, while the leafy greens offer a variety of vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin K, and folate.
- Antioxidants: The combination of tarragon, herbs, and spices in this salad provides a dose of antioxidants. Antioxidants protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals, helping to reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Low in Added Sugars: Unlike many store-bought dressings, this Tarragon Chicken Salad uses a homemade dressing that contains minimal added sugars. This ensures you can enjoy a guilt-free and balanced meal without unnecessary sugar spikes.
Ideas for serving
– One delicious way to serve tarragon chicken salad is by creating a delectable sandwich. Take two slices of your favorite bread, whether it’s whole wheat, ciabatta, or sourdough, and spread a generous amount of the tarragon chicken salad on one side. Add some crisp lettuce leaves, juicy slices of tomato, and a few slices of avocado to enhance the flavors and textures. Close the sandwich, cut it in half, and you have a delightful meal that is perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
– For a refreshing twist on serving tarragon chicken salad, consider stuffing it into ripe and plump tomatoes. Choose tomatoes that are slightly larger in size, so they can hold a good amount of the salad. Cut off the top of the tomato and carefully scoop out the seeds and pulp from the center. Fill each tomato with the tarragon chicken salad, packing it in tightly. Sprinkle some fresh chopped chives or parsley on top for an added burst of flavor and visual appeal. These stuffed tomatoes make an elegant appetizer or a light summer meal that will impress your guests.
– If you’re looking for a lighter option, serving tarragon chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens is an excellent choice. Start by layering a variety of fresh greens such as baby spinach, arugula, and romaine lettuce on a plate. Place a generous portion of the tarragon chicken salad in the center. To add some extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds over the top. Drizzle your favorite vinaigrette dressing over the salad to tie all the flavors together. This vibrant and healthy dish is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavors that will leave you satisfied and nourished.
– For an elegant presentation at your next gathering, serve tarragon chicken salad in delicate phyllo cups. These flaky and crispy cups provide a wonderful contrast to the creamy chicken salad. To make the cups, cut phyllo dough into squares or circles and press them into mini muffin tins. Bake until golden brown and let them cool. Fill each cup with a spoonful of the tarragon chicken salad, and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh tarragon or a tiny dollop of Dijon mustard. These bite-sized treats will impress your guests and make any occasion feel extra special.
– Another creative way to serve tarragon chicken salad is by turning it into a flavorful dip. Simply mix the chicken salad with some cream cheese or Greek yogurt to achieve a creamy texture. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness and a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning. Serve the dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl, surrounded by an assortment of colorful vegetables, such as carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips. This versatile dip can also be enjoyed with crackers or toasted baguette slices. The combination of creamy tarragon chicken salad and crunchy vegetables will tantalize your taste buds and make any gathering a hit.
Storing the dish
Instructions for Storing Tarragon Chicken Salad:
- First, ensure that your tarragon chicken salad has cooled down completely before proceeding with the storage process. This will help maintain its freshness and taste.
- Prepare airtight containers with lids that are suitable for refrigeration. Glass or plastic containers with tight-sealing lids work well in preserving the flavors of the salad.
- Divide the tarragon chicken salad into individual portions or store it as a whole, depending on your preferences. If you plan to enjoy it over several days, portioning it out will make it easier to grab and go whenever you’re in the mood for a delightful meal.
- Take each portion of the salad and carefully place it inside the airtight container. Make sure not to overcrowd the container as this may cause the ingredients to become squished and lose their desired texture.
- Seal the lid tightly, ensuring there are no gaps or openings that may allow air to enter. This step is crucial in preventing the salad from becoming soggy or absorbing unwanted odors from other items in your refrigerator.
- Label each container with the date of preparation using a marker or sticky note. This will help you keep track of the salad’s freshness and enable you to consume it within a reasonable time frame.
- Once labeled, place the containers in the refrigerator in a designated area where they won’t be easily disturbed or accidentally knocked over.
- Remember to consume your tarragon chicken salad within 3-4 days of refrigeration. While it may still be safe to eat beyond this time, the flavors and textures may begin to deteriorate.
- To serve, gently remove the desired portion of the salad from the container and transfer it to a plate or bowl. Give it a quick toss with your utensils to redistribute any dressing that may have settled.
- Enjoy your refreshing tarragon chicken salad, knowing that by following these storage instructions, you’ve preserved its delectable flavors and can savor it whenever you desire!
