Tarragon Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful, refreshing dish that combines the creaminess of a tangy dressing with the crunch of fresh vegetables, juicy grapes, and tender chicken. The perfect balance of flavors and textures makes this salad a fantastic option for picnics, potlucks, or a light and satisfying lunch or dinner. With its herby, creamy dressing and a touch of sweetness from the grapes, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tarragon Chicken Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of savory and sweet, with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy, flavorful dressing. The addition of grapes provides a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the fresh tarragon and tangy lemon. Plus, the crunchy walnuts add a nice texture contrast. It’s simple to make, requires minimal prep, and is great for making ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or meal prep! Tarragon Chicken Pasta Salad

Ingredients

1 pound bow tie pasta, cooked according to package instructions
2 celery stalks, cleaned and chopped
2 ½ cups sliced seedless grapes
2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
¼ cup finely chopped red onion
¼ cup chopped walnuts

For the dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise
¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon
½ tablespoon garlic powder
Kosher salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, celery, grapes, chicken, red onion, and walnuts. Toss to combine.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, parmesan cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, tarragon, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Serve the salad chilled, topped with additional chopped walnuts and fresh tarragon if desired.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (for cooking the pasta and chicken)
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to improve after chilling, so it’s perfect for make-ahead meals. This salad is best served cold and does not need reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the bow tie pasta with other pasta shapes such as rotini, fusilli, or penne. Choose one that holds up well in salads and can absorb the creamy dressing.

2. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like cucumber, bell peppers, or peas for extra crunch and color. Just be sure to keep the overall balance of textures.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad actually tastes better after it has had time to chill and let the flavors meld. You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

4. Can I use dried tarragon instead of fresh?

While fresh tarragon gives the best flavor, you can use dried tarragon if fresh is unavailable. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried tarragon for every tablespoon of fresh tarragon called for in the recipe.

5. Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the dressing?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or a lighter mayonnaise if you prefer a healthier version of the dressing. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may change slightly.

6. Can I use a different type of fruit besides grapes?

Yes, you can substitute grapes with other fruits such as diced apples, pears, or even dried cranberries for a slightly different flavor profile.

7. Can I add nuts besides walnuts?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of walnuts or want to try something different, pecans, almonds, or even cashews would be great additions to this salad.

8. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving substitute. Just shred the chicken and add it to the salad as you would with freshly cooked chicken breast.

9. Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free pasta, this recipe can be easily made gluten-free. Be sure to check the ingredients in the mayonnaise and sour cream to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

10. How can I make this salad more flavorful?

You can experiment with adding more herbs like basil or dill, or a splash of vinegar to the dressing for extra tang. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also add a little heat if you like it spicy.

Conclusion

This Tarragon Chicken Pasta Salad is a perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a light lunch or bringing a side dish to a family gathering. The creamy dressing, tender chicken, crunchy walnuts, and sweet grapes all come together to create a delightful balance of flavors. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this salad will be a go-to recipe in your collection!