Chicken Tarragon Salad(Cold)
A flavorful cold chicken salad with tarragon, grapes, celery, and walnuts, perfect for light lunches, picnics, or elegant gatherings with fresh, herbaceous notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the whole chicken in water with 2 tablespoons of tarragon until cooked.
- Let the chicken cool, then remove the skin and break it into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the chicken in a large bowl.
- Dice the celery and quarter the grapes, then add them to the chicken.
- Add the chopped walnuts to the mixture.
- Mix in mayonnaise to your desired creaminess.
- Sprinkle with 2 more tablespoons of tarragon while mixing.
- Chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley alongside the tarragon. For a healthier twist, substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise. If you prefer a different nut, try slivered almonds or pecans instead of walnuts. Ensure the chicken is fully cooled before mixing to prevent wilting the salad ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Tarragon Salad on a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing meal. It pairs well with whole grain bread or crackers for a light lunch. For a delightful addition, consider serving it alongside a fruit salad or pairing it with Joan Eckersell's Barley Casserole for a satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If reheating, gently warm the chicken in the microwave and then chill again before serving, to preserve the salad's texture. This salad is best enjoyed cold, so avoid reheating it after mixing with mayonnaise.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Tarragon Salad(Cold) contains roughly 207 calories, with 4g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 505mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover cooked chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken makes this recipe even quicker and more convenient. Just ensure the chicken is shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What can I use if I don't have tarragon?
If tarragon isn't available, you can substitute it with dill or basil for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that these herbs will change the overall taste of the salad, but they can still create a delicious dish.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make the Chicken Tarragon Salad more filling, consider adding cooked quinoa or couscous to the mix. These grains will add substance and make it a heartier meal, perfect for serving as a main dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).