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Tarragon Chicken Salad

Tarragon chicken salad

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This tarragon chicken salad recipe is perfect for lunch or an easy dinner. Savory chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy dressing with the herbaceous pop of tarragon make a uniquely delicious sandwich or spread. It’s a family favorite over here!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound shredded chicken, cooked and cooled (2 boneless skinless breasts, or substitute 3 cups shredded chicken; see Notes)
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh tarragon (see Notes)
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1/4 cup minced red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped dill pickle
  • 1/3 cup Greek yogurt (or 2 tablespoons additional mayonnaise, plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar 
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Make the shredded chicken: If the chicken is not already butterflied, place your hand over the top of each breast and use a sharp knife to carefully slice it horizontally. Unfold the breast like a book, then cut along the fold to separate the two halves. Add 6 cups water to saucepan and stir in 2 teaspoons salt. Bring to a boil and add the chicken. Boil until the internal temperature is 160°F or the center is no longer pink, about 7 to 10 minutes. Remove to a plate and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Once the chicken is cool enough to touch, use your fingers to tear the chicken into shreds.
  2. Make the salad: While the chicken cooks, chop the vegetables. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Store refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Notes

If using purchased chicken, it may have salt added, so adjust the salt quantity in the salad by starting with less.

Fresh tarragon is absolutely worth seeking out for this recipe. You can substitute 1 teaspoon dried tarragon if desired.

For dairy-free, use mayonnaise in place of the Greek yogurt and adjust to taste.