Ina Garten Tarragon Chicken Salad Recipe

This Ina Garten Tarragon Chicken Salad recipe is a creamy and refreshing dish, which includes roasted chicken breasts and fresh tarragon. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 50 minutes.

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Ina Garten Tarragon Chicken Salad Ingredients

• 3–4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts (about 2½–3 lbs)
• Olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1½ cups good-quality mayonnaise (Hellmann’s recommended)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon (or more to taste)
• 1 cup diced celery
• Optional: 1–2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice for brightness

How To Make Ina Garten Tarragon Chicken Salad

1. Roast the chicken (Ina’s method):
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken breasts on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Roast for 35–40 minutes, until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Cool slightly, then remove skin and bones. Dice into bite-sized cubes. Optional Poaching Method: Place chicken in a pot with water or chicken stock, salt, and aromatics (like bay leaf and peppercorns). Simmer for 20–25 minutes, then cool and dice.
2. Make the dressing:
   In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, chopped tarragon, and lemon juice (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine salad:
   Add diced chicken and celery to the dressing. Toss gently until evenly coated.
4. Chill before serving:
   Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold:
   Enjoy over greens, in lettuce cups, on toasted baguette slices, or as a sandwich filling with croissants or hearty bread.

Recipe Tips

• What’s the best way to cook the chicken?
  Ina Garten prefers roasting for maximum flavor, but poaching is a quicker option.
• How much tarragon should I use?
  Start with 1 tablespoon and adjust to taste—tarragon has a strong, anise-like flavor.
• Can I use rotisserie chicken?
  Yes, it’s a great shortcut. Just remove the skin and bones, then dice the meat.
• How to lighten the dressing:
  Replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Can I add more mix-ins?
  Yes, sliced grapes, toasted almonds, or chopped apples work beautifully.

What To Serve With Tarragon Chicken Salad

This versatile salad pairs well with:

• Croissants or hearty sandwich bread
• Mixed greens or arugula salad
• Roasted vegetable sides
• Fresh fruit salad
• Potato salad or pasta salad

How To Store Tarragon Chicken Salad

Refrigerate:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

Freeze:
Not recommended, as mayonnaise-based dressings don’t thaw well.

Tarragon Chicken Salad Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: ~420 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge.

Can I substitute dried tarragon for fresh?
Yes, but use only 1 teaspoon dried tarragon since it’s more concentrated.

What type of mayonnaise is best?
Ina recommends Hellmann’s (or Best Foods on the West Coast) for the best flavor and texture.

Can I serve this warm instead of cold?
Traditionally it’s served chilled, but you can serve slightly warm if preferred.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as it’s not served with bread or croissants containing gluten.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Tarragon Potato Salad Recipe
• Ina Garten Fiesta Corn And Avocado Salad Recipe
• Ina Garten Guacamole Salad Recipe