Ultimate Creamy Chicken Salad with Toasted Almonds and Fresh Tarragon

This ultimate chicken salad is not only a joy to make but also a sure crowd-pleaser with its blend of creamy textures and robust flavors enhanced by tarragon, which adds a delightful hint of anise. Perfect for picnics, light lunches, or as a nutritious addition to your meal rotation.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes (including poaching and cooling the chicken)
  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 2 pounds of chicken breasts (about 3 breasts, which yields approximately 4 cups of cooked chicken)
  • Cold water, enough to cover the chicken in a pot
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Aromatics (optional): parsley, onion, shallots, garlic, lemon slices, and peppercorns

For the Salad:

  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
  • 2 stalks of celery, finely diced
  • 3 green onions (spring onions), sliced (green and white parts)
  • 1 cup red or green grapes, quartered
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon (secret ingredient)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • Juice of one lemon
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions:

  1. Poach the Chicken:
    • Place the chicken breasts in a pot and cover with cold water by an inch. Add 1 teaspoon of salt.
    • Optionally, include aromatics like parsley, onion, garlic, lemon slices, and peppercorns to infuse the chicken with more flavor.
    • Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160-165°F.
    • Remove the chicken from the water and let it rest until cool enough to handle, then refrigerate until completely chilled.
  2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
    • While the chicken is cooling, toast the almonds in a dry pan over medium-low heat for about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Let them cool to room temperature.
    • Dice the celery and slice the green onions. Quarter the grapes for a balanced bite.
  3. Assemble the Salad:
    • Dice the chilled chicken into half-inch pieces and place in a large mixing bowl.
    • Add the cooled toasted almonds, diced celery, sliced green onions, and quartered grapes to the bowl.
    • In a separate small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and chopped tarragon. This dressing is what gives the chicken salad its unique flavor.
    • Pour the dressing over the chicken and other ingredients, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix until all components are well coated and creamy.
  4. Serve:
    • The chicken salad can be served chilled on a bed of lettuce leaves for a low-carb option, as a filling for sandwiches, or simply enjoyed on its own.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve on a bed of mixed greens for a light, refreshing meal.
  • Use as a filling for sandwiches or wraps for a hearty lunch.
  • Pair with whole grain crackers or toasted baguette slices for a delightful appetizer.
  • Spoon over avocado halves for a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Cooking Tips:

  • Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before dicing to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
  • Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
  • Adjust the amount of mayonnaise and lemon juice to achieve your preferred consistency and tanginess.
  • Add a splash of white wine vinegar for extra zing in the dressing.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • High in protein from the chicken and almonds, aiding muscle repair and growth.
  • Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables and herbs.
  • Healthy fats from mayonnaise and almonds support heart health.
  • Grapes add natural sweetness and are rich in antioxidants.

Dietary Information:

  • Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
  • Low-Carb: Suitable for a low-carb diet when served on lettuce leaves.
  • Can be made dairy-free by using a dairy-free mayonnaise alternative.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Quick and easy to prepare.
  • Perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and tangy flavors.
  • Versatile and can be served in various ways.
  • Nutritious and satisfying, great for meal prep.

Conclusion:

This Ultimate Creamy Chicken Salad with Toasted Almonds and Fresh Tarragon is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether served as a light lunch, a hearty sandwich filling, or a refreshing salad, this dish is sure to impress. With its nutritious ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a perfect addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors and the satisfying crunch of this delicious chicken salad. Bon appétit!