If you’re on the lookout for a bright, refreshing twist on a classic favorite, this Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It balances the creamy richness of mayo with zesty lemon and the unique, slightly sweet flavor of fresh tarragon, creating a salad that feels both sophisticated and comforting. Whether you’re packing lunch, hosting a casual brunch, or just craving something light yet satisfying, this dish delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad Recipe plays a simple but crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. The fresh herbs add vibrancy, the chicken provides hearty substance, and the lemon pulls everything together with its lively citrus punch.
- 2 lbs. chicken breast, cooked: Tender, protein-packed base to keep the salad hearty.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Creamy binder that adds richness without overpowering.
- 3 lemons, zested and juiced: Bursts of fresh acidity that brighten every bite.
- 2 tbsp. stone ground mustard: A tangy punch with a touch of texture for depth.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Crunchy, fresh contrast to the creamy dressing.
- 4 green onions, chopped: Mildly oniony warmth to complement the herbs.
- ¼ cup fresh tarragon, chopped: Distinctive herbaceous note that’s key to this recipe’s charm.
- 2 tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the salad with a subtle peppery freshness.
- ½ tsp. salt: Enhances all the flavors evenly.
- ½ tsp. pepper: Adds gentle spice and balance.
How to Make Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Dice the Chicken
Start by cutting your cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. This might seem basic, but the uniformity really helps your salad come together evenly, making every forkful perfectly balanced.
Step 2: Mix the Salad Base
In a large bowl, combine your diced chicken with the mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice, and stone ground mustard. This blend creates the creamy and tangy foundation that will coat all the ingredients beautifully.
Step 3: Add the Crunch and Herbs
Next, toss in the diced celery, chopped green onions, fresh tarragon, and parsley. These ingredients deliver crunch, herbal brightness, and a bit of bite, making each mouthful exciting and fresh.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Give everything a thorough stir until the chicken is well coated and the herbs and veggies are evenly spread throughout. The salad should look vibrant and inviting, with that irresistible lemony glow.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, taste your creation and season with salt and pepper to your liking. You can serve it right away for a fresher feel or chill it for a bit to let flavors marry more deeply. Either way, this salad is ready to shine.
How to Serve Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle an extra pinch of chopped tarragon or parsley on top just before serving to remind everyone of this salad’s fresh, herbaceous soul. A light drizzle of olive oil or a few lemon wedges on the side add an elegant finishing touch.
Side Dishes
The Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, crusty artisan bread, or a simple plate of roasted vegetables. These sides balance the creamy salad and keep the meal light and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this salad stuffed in a crunchy baguette or scooped atop butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. It’s also fantastic as a colorful topping on crisp crackers for easy entertaining or layered in a vibrant grain bowl for extra texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad neatly stored in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for busy weeks.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze well because of the mayonnaise and fresh herbs. For best results, avoid freezing and instead plan to consume within a few days.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled salad, reheating is not recommended. If you prefer a warm meal, consider using fresh-cooked chicken as a base and gently warming it before mixing with the salad ingredients, then enjoy it immediately.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and adds an extra boost of flavor, making prep even easier while still delivering delicious results.
Is fresh tarragon necessary, or can I use dried tarragon?
Fresh tarragon is ideal because of its bright, delicate flavor, but if you only have dried, use about one-third the amount and add it earlier in the mixing stage to help bloom its aroma.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise for a healthier option?
Yes, Greek yogurt or avocado can be used as a creamy substitute for mayonnaise, giving you a lighter salad with extra nutrients and still plenty of flavor.
How long does this salad keep in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will stay fresh up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or snack prep.
What other herbs might complement the Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad Recipe?
If you want to experiment, dill or chervil can add lovely variations that still keep the salad bright and herbaceous without overpowering the core flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad Recipe is a gem for anyone who loves vibrant, fresh recipes that don’t require hours in the kitchen. Its perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and herbaceous notes makes every serving feel special, whether for meal prep or a casual get-together. I truly hope you give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite easy dishes to whip up again and again.
Print
Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A refreshing and zesty Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad featuring tender cooked chicken breast mixed with a tangy lemon and stone ground mustard dressing, complemented by fresh herbs and crunchy celery. Perfect for sandwiches, salads, or a light meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs. chicken breast, cooked
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 lemons, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp. stone ground mustard
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 green onions, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh tarragon, chopped
- 2 tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. pepper
Instructions
- Dice the Chicken: Cut the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces to ensure even distribution and easy mixing in the salad.
- Mix the Salad Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, mayonnaise, lemon zest and juice, stone ground mustard, diced celery, chopped green onions, tarragon, and parsley. This builds the base flavors of the salad.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing and the herbs and vegetables are distributed throughout.
- Season and Serve: Taste the chicken salad and season with salt and pepper as needed. Chill if desired, or serve immediately as a sandwich filling, over greens, or on its own.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked chicken breast for best texture and flavor.
- Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together.
- Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest based on your preference for tanginess.
- This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
