Tarragon Chicken Salad
Try this Tarragon Chicken Salad recipe.
Try this Tarragon Chicken Salad recipe.
- Carbohydrate 0.306496875 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.00891354166666667 g
- Fiber 0.114333330007891 g
- Protein 0.075884375 g
- Saturated Fat 0.001641875 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (5g)
- Sodium 7.58171440972223 mg
- Sugar 0.192163544992109 g
- Trans Fat 0.00231635416666667 g
- Calories 1 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees and place a sheet of parchment paper on a jelly roll pan.
- Place the chicken on the pan and salt and pepper generously.
- Cook for about 50 minutes or until chicken is done.
- Remove from oven, let cool.
- Place on cutting board. Chop into large pieces.
- Place chicken into a food processor with a blade. ( it is best to do this in two batches).
- Add mayo, chopped celery, chopped green onions, fresh lemon juice and about 1 teaspoon dried tarragon.
- Pulse a few times, until chicken is shredded and all ingredients are mixed well. Do not over pulse!
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- You may either serve immediately or store in refrigerator until ready to serve. This recipe may be made a day or two ahead.
- When ready to serve, place on croissants or lettuce leaves, or on chopped greens.
- Garnish with almonds or chopped green onions, if desired.
Tarragon Chicken Salad: A Simple Recipe for Any Occasion
As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick and easy recipes that don't sacrifice flavor. This Tarragon Chicken Salad fits the bill perfectly! It's incredibly versatile, delicious, and can be prepped ahead of time – a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights. The tangy lemon juice brightens the creamy mayonnaise, while the subtle anise notes of the tarragon add a touch of sophistication. This isn't your grandma's chicken salad; it's a refined, yet effortlessly simple dish that's perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even a sophisticated appetizer.
What I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. Sometimes, I’ll serve it on crusty croissants for a more substantial meal. Other times, I’ll spoon it onto crisp lettuce cups for a lighter, refreshing lunch. The possibilities are endless! I often find myself adding toasted slivered almonds for a delightful crunch, or a sprinkle of fresh chives for an extra burst of freshness. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; you can easily adjust it to your own preferences and the ingredients you have on hand. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this Tarragon Chicken Salad is guaranteed to impress.
The Secret to Perfectly Shredded Chicken: The key to achieving the perfect texture for this salad is the food processor. Pulsed gently, it creates beautifully shredded chicken without over-processing it into a paste. I recommend doing this in two batches for optimal results. Ensure your chicken is completely cool before adding it to the food processor; this prevents the mayonnaise from melting and creating a less desirable consistency.
Make-Ahead Magic: This is a fantastic make-ahead recipe. I often prepare it the night before, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen overnight. This not only saves time but also enhances the overall taste. It's perfectly fine to store it in the refrigerator for a day or two, ensuring it remains fresh and flavorful when you're ready to enjoy it.
Serving Suggestions: The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving this chicken salad. Some of my favorite ways include:
- Croissants: Classic and satisfying.
- Lettuce Cups: A lighter, healthier option.
- Crackers: A simple and easy appetizer.
- Sandwiches: A perfect lunch or quick dinner.
- Wraps: Use tortillas for a fun twist.
- Salad Greens: A refreshing and vibrant addition to a larger salad.
Beyond the basic recipe, I encourage you to get creative and experiment with different additions. Consider adding chopped grapes for a touch of sweetness, or diced red bell pepper for a vibrant pop of color. The possibilities truly are endless! This recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience, a testament to the fact that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors.
Beyond the Plate: This Tarragon Chicken Salad is more than just a delicious meal; it's a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. It's about taking the time to prepare something wholesome and flavorful, and sharing it with loved ones. Whether it's a casual lunch with family or a more elegant gathering with friends, this recipe is a surefire way to bring people together around a table filled with delicious food and good company.
So, the next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious recipe that's both satisfying and adaptable, give this Tarragon Chicken Salad a try. I guarantee it will become a staple in your recipe repertoire, a go-to dish for those moments when you need a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
