This bright and refreshing Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad is a game-changer for lunch or light dinner options. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic tarragon, and tender chicken creates a symphony of flavors that’s both satisfying and elegant. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy days when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lightning Fast Preparation: From start to finish in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
Fresh and Vibrant Flavors: The combination of lemon and tarragon creates an irresistible brightness that elevates ordinary chicken salad to something special.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it in sandwiches, wraps, on crackers, or atop fresh greens for a complete meal that adapts to your mood.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together in the refrigerator.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken breast: The star protein that provides a neutral canvas for the bright flavors. Using pre-cooked chicken is the ultimate time-saver here.
Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base that holds everything together. Choose a good quality mayo for the best flavor.
Lemons: Both the zest and juice bring essential brightness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the mayo.
Stone ground mustard: Adds a subtle tangy kick and wonderful texture that smooth mustards just can’t match.
Celery: Provides that essential crunch factor and a hint of natural saltiness.
Green onions: Offer a mild onion flavor without overwhelming the delicate herbs.
Tarragon: The secret weapon! This herb has a unique anise-like flavor that pairs magically with chicken and lemon.
Parsley: Brings a fresh, clean taste that balances the more distinctive tarragon.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning that ties all the flavors together.

Variations

Fruit Additions

Try adding halved red grapes, diced apples, or dried cranberries for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.

Nut Factor

Toasted sliced almonds, chopped walnuts, or pecans can add wonderful texture and nutty depth.

Creamy Alternatives

Substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version with extra protein.

Herb Swaps

If tarragon isn’t your favorite, try using dill, basil, or thyme instead – each creates a distinctly different but equally delicious chicken salad.

How to Make Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Dice your cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. I find that chunks about 1/2-inch work perfectly – small enough to get on a sandwich but large enough to maintain the chicken’s texture.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and stone ground mustard. Stir until well combined into a smooth, fragrant dressing.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add the diced chicken, chopped celery, green onions, fresh tarragon, and parsley to the bowl with the dressing.

Step 4: Mix and Season

Gently fold everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing and the ingredients are well distributed. Season with salt and pepper, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For incredible flavor and convenience, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. The meat is always tender and saves you cooking time.
Zest Before Juicing: Always zest your lemons before cutting and juicing them – it’s nearly impossible to zest a squeezed lemon!
Herb Handling: Chop your herbs just before using to preserve their vibrant flavors and aromas.
Let It Rest: While this salad is fantastic immediately, allowing it to chill for at least an hour lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
Taste As You Go: Chicken salad is very forgiving – taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference.

How to Serve

Sandwich Style

Pile it high between slices of toasted sourdough or croissants with crisp lettuce and sliced tomatoes.

Lettuce Wraps

For a low-carb option, spoon the chicken salad into butter lettuce cups for an elegant lunch.

Party Platter

Serve with an assortment of crackers, toasted baguette slices, and vegetable crudités for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Stuffed Avocados

Halve an avocado, remove the pit, and fill the center with chicken salad for a protein-rich, satisfying meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually improve after a day as they have time to develop and meld together.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing this chicken salad as mayonnaise-based dressings tend to separate when thawed, and the fresh herbs and crisp vegetables would lose their texture.

Make Ahead

This is an excellent make-ahead dish! Prepare it up to 2 days in advance for parties or meal prep. If making ahead, you might want to add a little extra mayo or a squeeze of lemon juice when serving to refresh the consistency.

FAQs

Can I use dried tarragon instead of fresh?
Yes, though the flavor won’t be quite as vibrant. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried tarragon in place of the 1/4 cup fresh. Remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so you’ll need less.

What’s the best way to cook chicken for this salad?
The simplest method is poaching: place chicken breasts in a pot, cover with water, add salt and a bay leaf, bring to a gentle simmer, then cook for about 15 minutes until done. This yields tender, juicy chicken perfect for salads. Alternatively, roasting chicken breasts at 375°F for 25-30 minutes works beautifully too.

Can I make this recipe lighter?
Absolutely! Replace half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-rich alternative. The lemon and herbs will still shine through wonderfully.

How can I add more crunch to this chicken salad?
Beyond celery, consider adding diced water chestnuts, chopped toasted nuts, or even thinly sliced radishes for extra textural contrast.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad is one of those recipes that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. The bright lemon, distinctive tarragon, and creamy dressing transform ordinary chicken into something truly special. Whether you’re packing lunches, planning a picnic, or just want something delicious waiting in the fridge, this chicken salad delivers every time. Give it a try – I bet it becomes your new go-to recipe!

Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad Recipe