French Tarragon Chicken Salad
Tender chicken is folded into a creamy mayonnaise and Dijon dressing flavored with fresh French tarragon, whose mild anise character works particularly well with poultry. Crisp celery and juicy grapes add texture and sweetness throughout. The salad comes together quickly with no cooking needed if using pre-cooked chicken.
Equipment
- Large sauté pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced preferably roasted or poached and cooled
- ½ cup celery, finely chopped choose firm, crisp stalks
- ½ cup red seedless grapes, halved choose firm, ripe grapes for sweetness and color
- 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, finely chopped French tarragon is preferred for its delicate flavor
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise use a high-quality brand for richness
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt adds a light tangy contrast
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard classic French style, smooth and pungent
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice adds brightness; freshly squeezed preferred
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt adjust to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper fine to medium grind for delicate seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken (if not already cooked): In a large sauté pan, bring lightly salted water to a simmer (around 180°F / 82°C). Add chicken breasts and poach gently for 12 to 15 minutes until cooked through and opaque. Let cool slightly before dicing into bite-sized cubes.
- Mix the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth and emulsified.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, chopped celery, halved grapes, and chopped tarragon. Gently fold in the prepared dressing until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Chill (optional): For enhanced flavor, cover and refrigerate the salad for 10–15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- Add chopped toasted almonds or walnuts for a nutty crunch.
- Substitute crème fraîche for Greek yogurt for a richer, more decadent version.
- Swap grapes with sliced apples or dried cranberries for seasonal variation.
Nutrition
Calories: 309kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 18gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 13gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 467mgPotassium: 479mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 260IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 64mgIron: 2mg
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