Starbucks Tarragon Chicken Salad

This is a very good restaurant copycat recipe for their chicken salad with a unique dressing.

Starbucks Tarragon Chicken Salad is a popular menu item that combines the freshness of chicken with the distinctive flavor of tarragon. This salad is a delightful mix of tender chicken, crunchy celery, tangy dried cranberries, and a creamy dressing infused with the subtle hints of tarragon. It is a delicious and satisfying option for those looking for a light and flavorful meal or snack.

The salad starts with cooked chicken, which is then combined with a variety of ingredients to create a well-rounded flavor profile. The addition of finely chopped celery adds a satisfying crunch, while the dried cranberries bring a touch of sweetness and tartness to the dish. The star of the salad, tarragon, provides an herbal and slightly licorice-like taste that elevates the overall flavor and gives it a unique twist.

The dressing, made with mayonnaise, tarragon, and lemon juice, complements the other ingredients perfectly. The creamy texture of the dressing coats the chicken and vegetables, adding richness and tying all the flavors together. The lemon juice adds a subtle tanginess that balances the richness of the mayonnaise, while the fresh tarragon infuses the dressing with its distinctive aroma and flavor.

SERVES: 2

INGREDIENTS:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped tarragon
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 2 cups ½″ cubed cooked chicken
• ¼ cup finely chopped dried cranberries
• 1 stalk finely chopped celery
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, fresh chopped tarragon, and lemon juice. Mix well to create the dressing.
2. In a medium bowl, add the cooked chicken, finely chopped dried cranberries, chopped celery, and chopped red onion. Lightly toss the ingredients to mix them together.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and mix well, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Salad Bowl: Serve the Tarragon Chicken Salad on a bed of fresh greens, such as lettuce or mixed greens, for a light and refreshing salad. Garnish with additional tarragon leaves or dried cranberries for an extra pop of flavor and color.
• Sandwich or Wrap: Use the Tarragon Chicken Salad as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Spread it on your favorite bread or wrap, and add some crisp lettuce and sliced tomatoes for a satisfying and flavorful lunch option.
• Stuffed Avocado: Scoop out the pit from a halved avocado and fill the hollow with the Tarragon Chicken Salad. This creates a creamy and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a light meal or appetizer.
• Lettuce Wraps: Wrap the Tarragon Chicken Salad in large lettuce leaves, such as butter lettuce or romaine hearts, for a low-carb and gluten-free option. Add some diced tomatoes or avocado slices for extra freshness.
• Party Appetizer: Serve small portions of the Tarragon Chicken Salad on cucumber slices, crackers, or mini phyllo cups for a delicious and elegant appetizer at parties or gatherings.
• Meal Prep: Prepare a batch of Tarragon Chicken Salad and portion it into individual containers for convenient and healthy meal prepping. It can be enjoyed as a quick and easy lunch or snack throughout the week.