If you are craving a sandwich that perfectly balances fresh herbs, creamy textures, and tender chicken, this Tarragon Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe is your new go-to. It transforms simple ingredients into a delightfully elegant meal with a touch of French-inspired flair, thanks to the bright lemon, fragrant tarragon, and crunchy veggies. Whether you are packing lunch for yourself or impressing guests at a casual gathering, this recipe brings vibrant flavors and satisfying comfort in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Tarragon Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe lies in how straightforward and wholesome the ingredients are. Each component adds a crucial note — from the juicy chicken breast lending hearty protein to the fresh herbs infusing aromatic charm, and crisp veggies providing inviting crunch and color.
- 2 lb chicken breast: The star protein, cooked tender and shredded for perfect texture.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the seasoning.
- Black pepper to taste: Adds a subtle kick of warmth and depth.
- 2 lemons: Brighten the salad with fresh citrus juice for that lively zing.
- 4 sprigs fresh tarragon: Impart the signature anise-like, slightly sweet flavor unique to this dish.
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise (I prefer Hellmann’s mayonnaise): Builds the creamy base that ties all ingredients together smoothly.
- 1.5 tbsp Dijon mustard (smooth or whole grain): A tangy, slightly sharp edge that complements the herbs beautifully.
- 1 tbsp fresh tarragon: Additional fresh herb to fold in, amplifying the distinctive tarragon essence.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley: Adds freshness and a subtle grassy note for balance.
- 1 tbsp fresh chives: Contributes a mild onion flavor to brighten the salad.
- 1/2 cup red onion (finely diced): Provides crunch and a punch of sharpness against the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup celery (finely diced): Offers crisp texture and a refreshing vegetal hint.
- 1 garlic clove (minced): Gives a savory depth that elevates the flavor profile.
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and color contrast.
How to Make Tarragon Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Poach the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in a pot, cover with water or broth, and add a few sprigs of fresh tarragon. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 20 to 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The gentle poaching method keeps the chicken moist and ready for shredding, setting the foundation for a juicy salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Herb Mixture
While the chicken cools, finely chop the remaining fresh tarragon, parsley, and chives. In a mixing bowl, combine these vibrant herbs with the minced garlic, diced red onion, and celery. This combination delivers both fresh aroma and crunch — essential for a lively chicken salad texture.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice squeezed from both lemons, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This tangy and smoky dressing will saturate every morsel of chicken and veggies, creating that irresistible creamy consistency everyone loves.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken and Combine
Once the chicken breasts have cooled enough to handle, shred them into bite-sized pieces. Add the shredded chicken into the bowl with the chopped herb-vegetable mix, then pour the dressing on top. Gently fold all the ingredients together until everything is well coated, making sure each bite will have balanced flavor.
How to Serve Tarragon Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Top your Tarragon Chicken Salad Sandwich with crisp lettuce leaves or peppery arugula for added freshness and crunch. A few extra sprigs of tarragon on the side can also emphasize the herbal theme and make your presentation pop with color.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs beautifully with light, summery sides like a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette or fresh fruit slices such as crisp apples or juicy grapes. For a heartier meal, crunchy kettle-cooked chips or a cup of homemade vegetable soup make excellent companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the classic sandwich bread by serving the Tarragon Chicken Salad inside crisp lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist or tucked into a flaky croissant for a more indulgent treat. You can also pile it onto crackers for a charming appetizer at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers after savoring your Tarragon Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe, immediately transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to three days, allowing the flavors to even meld and deepen overnight for an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
Because of the mayonnaise and fresh veggies, freezing this chicken salad is not recommended. The texture and taste can suffer, leading to separation and sogginess upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, you can reheat leftover chicken separately and then mix it back into fresh dressing and herbs to revive the salad’s brightness and texture without losing any of the fresh appeal.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that adds delicious flavor and saves cooking time. Just shred the chicken as directed and proceed with combining it with the herbs and dressing.
What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh tarragon?
If fresh tarragon is unavailable, dried tarragon can be used but use it sparingly as it’s more concentrated. Alternatively, fresh basil or dill provide interesting, though different, herbal notes if you want to experiment.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The Tarragon Chicken Salad itself is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it on gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps if you need to keep the whole sandwich gluten-free.
Can I make this salad vegan or vegetarian?
This salad relies on chicken as the main protein, but you could try substituting with chickpeas or tofu and use vegan mayonnaise to create a vegetarian or vegan version inspired by the Tarragon Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe flavors.
How long does the salad last in the fridge?
Store your prepared Tarragon Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Beyond that, the texture starts to change and the fresh herbs lose their brightness.
Final Thoughts
This Tarragon Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly memorable. Its bright, fresh herbs paired with creamy dressing and tender chicken make for a sandwich that you’ll return to time and again. I highly encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own—it’s perfect for any time you want a delicious, easy, and satisfying meal that feels special.
Print
Tarragon Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Tarragon Chicken Salad Sandwich recipe features tender, juicy chicken breast combined with fresh herbs and a tangy, creamy dressing. Flavored with fresh tarragon, parsley, chives, Dijon mustard, and a hint of smoked paprika, this salad is perfect for a satisfying and elegant sandwich filling that works great for lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 lb chicken breast
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 lemons (juiced)
- 4 sprigs fresh tarragon
Dressing and Salad Mix
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise (Hellmann’s preferred)
- 1.5 tbsp Dijon mustard (smooth or whole grain)
- 1 tbsp fresh tarragon (chopped)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives (chopped)
- 1/2 cup red onion (finely diced)
- 1/2 cup celery (finely diced)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and juice of 2 lemons along with the 4 sprigs of tarragon. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken in a pot with a little water or chicken broth and simmer gently over medium-low heat for about 45-60 minutes until fully cooked and tender. Alternatively, poach the chicken in a covered pan.
- Cool and Shred: Remove the chicken from the cooking liquid and let it cool completely. Once cooled, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your fingers.
- Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped fresh tarragon, parsley, chives, minced garlic, and smoked paprika. Stir well to form a creamy, herbaceous dressing.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, diced red onion, and celery to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the chicken salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together before serving. Serve on your favorite bread or rolls to make sandwiches.
Notes
- Poaching the chicken gently ensures tender, juicy meat perfect for shredding.
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise to your preferred creaminess.
- Fresh herbs are key for the bright, aromatic flavor in this salad.
- This salad can be made a day ahead for better flavor development.
- Serve on toasted bread or in a croissant for an upscale sandwich experience.
