Variation
Greek Yogurt Swap: Replace half the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Lunch · Salads · American
Cold Chicken Salad With Grapes and Tarragon
Our cold chicken salad features crisp celery, juicy red grapes, and fresh tarragon for a bright twist on a picnic staple.
Prep
20 min
Cook
0 min
Difficulty
Easy
Serves
4
Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Mix and Chill
- 1
Whisk Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Tip: Adding a splash of grape juice can add a subtle sweetness.
- 2
Incorporate Ingredients
Add the chicken, grapes, celery, and pecans to the bowl. Fold gently until everything is evenly coated.
Tip: Use a silicone spatula to avoid breaking the delicate grapes.
How to Make Cold Chicken Salad With Grapes and Tarragon
Total time: 20 min · Yields 4 servings
- 1
Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until completely emulsified.
- 2
Add the Chicken
Place the cooled, shredded chicken into the bowl. If using store bought rotisserie chicken, ensure it is fully chilled before starting.
- 3
Incorporate Aromatics
Fold in the diced celery, halved grapes, and fresh herbs. Use a gentle folding motion to keep the chicken from becoming a paste.
- 4
Add Crunch
Stir in the chopped toasted pecans right before serving to maintain their texture and prevent them from softening in the dressing.
- 5
Chill and Set
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the tarragon and lemon flavors to permeate the chicken thoroughly.
Chef's Tips
- Always use chilled chicken to ensure the mayonnaise stays stable and safe.
- Toast pecans in a dry skillet for 3 minutes until fragrant for better flavor depth.
- If tarragon is too strong for your palate, substitute with fresh dill or parsley.
What to Serve with Cold Chicken Salad With Grapes and Tarragon
The garlic butter sauce is the star — pick sides that soak it up or balance the richness.
- Inside a toasted buttery croissant
- On a bed of fresh Bibb lettuce leaves
- Served in a hollowed out avocado half
Recipe Variations
Once you've mastered the base recipe, try these popular twists.
Variation
Curry Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of mild curry powder to the dressing.
Variation
Apple Crunch: Substitute the grapes with diced Granny Smith apples.
Storage & Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not freeze, as the mayo-based dressing will separate.
Further reading
Frequently asked questions
How long can cold chicken salad sit out?
Due to the mayonnaise and chicken, it should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If it is a hot day, keep it over a bowl of ice.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for cold chicken salad?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is excellent for this recipe. Just ensure you remove the skin and chill the meat completely before mixing.
Is tarragon necessary for this recipe?
Tarragon provides a classic flavor, but if you dislike its licorice-like taste, you can use fresh dill or flat-leaf parsley instead.
Why is my chicken salad watery?
This usually happens if the celery or grapes were wet when added. Ensure all fruits and vegetables are patted dry after washing.
What is the best way to shred chicken for salad?
You can use two forks to pull the grain apart, or for a faster method, use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on low speed.
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