recipe for chicken tarragon
The Best recipe for chicken tarragon
This chicken tarragon dish is one of my favorite go-to recipes—simple enough to make on a weeknight when I’m tired but still feels special enough to serve at a dinner party. The tender chicken, lightly seasoned with garlic and herbs, pairs perfectly with the bright, zesty flavor of tarragon that gives it that fresh, almost citrusy kick. My kids love it because it’s not too heavy, not too plain—just the right balance of savory and bright. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a little treat without being overly complicated, and honestly, it’s one of those recipes that makes everything taste better when you’re hosting guests.
I love this recipe because it’s so versatile. You can make it for a quick weeknight meal, or you can double it up and serve it with crusty bread and a simple green salad for a light but satisfying dinner. The health benefits make it even better—it’s packed with lean protein from the chicken, and the tarragon adds antioxidants that help with digestion and inflammation. Plus, it’s just so easy to customize. If you want it lighter, you can swap out the butter for olive oil. If you’re feeling fancy, add some roasted potatoes or asparagus on the side. It’s the kind of dish that works whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself. My husband always says it’s the one recipe that doesn’t require a fancy ingredient list but still feels like a restaurant-quality meal.
Chicken Tarragon with Lemon Butter Sauce
A delicate and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breast poached in a fragrant tarragon-lemon butter sauce, perfect for a light yet elegant meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and white pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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2 Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub each with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Place on the baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.
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3 Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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4 Add chopped tarragon, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Simmer for 1 minute. Stir in chopped parsley and season with salt and white pepper.
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5 Slice chicken breasts and spoon the warm tarragon butter sauce over the top. Serve immediately.
🔧Equipment
- Skillet (stainless steel or cast iron)
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Parchment paper
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Chicken Tarragon with Lemon Butter Sauce Works
This chicken tarragon dish is always a reliable crowd-pleaser because it’s simple enough to make without fuss but packed with flavor that feels special. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or a weekend get-together, the bright, herby notes of tarragon and the tender, juicy chicken make it feel like a restaurant-worthy meal without the stress. It’s the kind of recipe that keeps everyone talking—both about how good it tastes and how easy it was to pull together.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Tarragon with Lemon Butter Sauce
What is the best way to prepare chicken tarragon before cooking it?
To prepare chicken tarragon, start by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Then, season generously with salt and black pepper. For extra flavor, you can also rub the chicken with a mix of olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of paprika or thyme. This helps to infuse the meat with aromatic flavors before cooking.
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How long should I cook chicken tarragon for, and what temperature should I be aiming for?
Chicken tarragon typically requires about 20-25 minutes of cooking time for medium-rare to medium doneness, depending on the thickness of the cuts. Use an oven set to 375°F (190°C) for baking or a 400°F (200°C) pan for sautéing. For grilling, aim for 400–450°F (200–230°C). Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer to guarantee it’s fully cooked.
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What are the key ingredients I need for a classic chicken tarragon recipe?
A classic chicken tarragon dish requires: – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces) – Fresh tarragon (or 1 tbsp dried tarragon) – Butter or olive oil (for cooking) – Garlic (minced or chopped) – Shallots or onions (finely diced) – White wine or chicken broth (for deglazing) – Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, or chives) – Salt and pepper (to taste) – Optional: Lemon zest, bay leaves, or a touch of honey for balance
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Can I substitute dried tarragon for fresh in this recipe, and if so, what’s the ratio?
Yes, you can substitute dried tarragon, but the flavor is milder. Use 1 tbsp dried tarragon for every 1 tbsp fresh tarragon. However, if possible, opt for fresh tarragon—it delivers a more vibrant, aromatic taste. If using dried, ensure it’s high-quality and well-stored, as dried herbs can lose potency over time.
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What side dishes pair well with chicken tarragon, and how can I serve it?
Chicken tarragon pairs beautifully with: – Crispy roasted potatoes (tossed in olive oil, rosemary, and salt) – Sautéed green beans (with garlic and lemon) – Buttery mashed potatoes (for a creamy contrast) – Quinoa or couscous (lightly dressed with tarragon-infused oil) – A simple salad (mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette)
To serve, plate the chicken alongside your chosen sides, drizzle with any pan juices or tarragon-infused oil, and garnish with fresh parsley or tarragon sprigs for a finishing touch.
