Cold Tarragon Chicken Breasts
Cold tarragon chicken breasts offer a flavorful, herbaceous dish perfect for picnics or luncheons, featuring tender chicken with fresh tarragon and a light wine glaze.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brush the chicken breasts with melted butter and sprinkle with tarragon, salt, and pepper.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Add white wine to the baking dish and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of butter, tarragon, salt, and pepper for a few hours before baking. If fresh tarragon is unavailable, dried tarragon can be used, but reduce the amount to one-third, as it's more concentrated. You can also substitute the butter with olive oil for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cold tarragon chicken on a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing salad. It pairs beautifully with a light vinaigrette or can be served alongside a side of Top Ramen Salad for a satisfying meal. Garnish with additional fresh tarragon for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but the oven will help retain the chicken's juiciness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cold Tarragon Chicken Breasts contains roughly 197 calories, with 21g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1227mg per serving (53% 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 boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used for this recipe. They have a richer flavor and may stay juicier during cooking. Adjust the baking time slightly, as thighs may require a bit more time than breasts.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink.
Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked tarragon chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).