I like making this tarragon chicken with asparagus when I want something elegant yet easy to prepare. The tender chicken paired with fresh asparagus and a lightly herbed sauce creates a dish that feels both comforting and refined.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy how this recipe highlights simple ingredients with delicate flavors. The tarragon adds a subtle, aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with the chicken. I also appreciate how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • chicken breast or thighs
  • olive oil or butter
  • garlic
  • fresh tarragon
  • asparagus
  • chicken broth
  • lemon juice
  • salt
  • black pepper

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. Then I heat olive oil or butter in a pan and cook the chicken over medium heat for about 6–7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. I remove it from the pan and set it aside.

In the same pan, I sauté garlic briefly, then add asparagus and cook until tender but still crisp.

I pour in chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice, letting it simmer for a few minutes to create a light sauce.

I return the chicken to the pan, sprinkle in fresh tarragon, and let everything cook together for another few minutes so the flavors blend.

I serve it warm, spooning some of the sauce and asparagus over the chicken.

Servings and timing

I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Preparation takes around 10–15 minutes, cooking about 20 minutes, making the total time approximately 30–35 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add a splash of cream for a richer sauce. When I want extra flavor, I include mushrooms or shallots. I also like serving it over rice or pasta to make it more filling.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I reheat gently in a pan or microwave, adding a little broth if needed to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use dried tarragon instead of fresh?

I sometimes use dried tarragon, just reducing the amount since it’s more concentrated.

What can I use instead of asparagus?

I replace it with green beans or broccoli when needed.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I prepare it in advance and reheat it gently before serving.

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

I avoid overcooking and let it rest briefly before serving.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I use olive oil instead of butter and skip any added cream.

Conclusion

I find this tarragon chicken with asparagus to be a simple yet flavorful dish that feels both fresh and comforting. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for a delicious, well-balanced meal.

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Tarragon Chicken with Asparagus

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An elegant yet easy tarragon chicken dish served with tender asparagus and a light, flavorful herb sauce.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Seared
  • Cuisine: French-Inspired
  • Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pan over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add asparagus and cook until tender-crisp, about 4–5 minutes.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, letting it simmer for a few minutes to form a light sauce.
  6. Return the chicken to the pan and sprinkle with fresh tarragon.
  7. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors.
  8. Serve warm with asparagus and sauce spooned over the chicken.

Notes

  • Add a splash of cream for a richer sauce.
  • Include mushrooms or shallots for extra depth of flavor.
  • Serve over rice or pasta for a more filling meal.
  • Use dried tarragon if fresh is unavailable, reducing the amount.
  • Reheat gently with a bit of broth to maintain moisture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg

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