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
Scale
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.
