Tarragon Lemon Chicken Salad is a refreshing twist on a classic dish, combining bright flavors and crunchy textures. It's perfect for a summer picnic or a light lunch, bringing a touch of gourmet flair to your table.
The heart of this salad is the cooked chicken, providing a hearty base with its tender texture. Celery adds a satisfying crunch and a touch of freshness. The red onion introduces a sharp, peppery bite that balances the creamy dressing. Speaking of which, the mayonnaise binds everything together with its rich creaminess, while Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang. The lemon juice and lemon zest bring a bright, citrusy punch, and the fresh tarragon imparts a unique, slightly anise-like flavor that elevates the whole dish. Finally, a dash of salt and pepper rounds out the seasoning.
This salad shines as a filling for sandwiches or wraps, paired with soft whole-grain bread or crisp lettuce leaves. It's also delightful served over a bed of mixed greens, accompanied by a slice of crusty baguette. For a more substantial meal, pair it with a simple vegetable soup.
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and combining your diced chicken, chopped celery, and minced red onion. These will form the base of your salad. Make sure the chicken is bite-sized and that the onion is finely minced to avoid overpowering bites.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped tarragon. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated. This creamy mixture will coat the salad and infuse it with flavor.
Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture. Using a spatula or large spoon, toss the ingredients until everything is evenly coated. Ensure every piece of chicken is covered in the dressing for maximum flavor.
Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away, so start small and adjust as needed.
Transfer the salad to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
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