Applebee's Chicken Tortilla Soup: Recipe & Facts

Applebee's Chicken Tortilla Soup is a popular menu item featuring a savory broth with shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and spices, topped with crispy tortilla strips and Monterey Jack cheese. The restaurant chain has served this Southwest-inspired soup as a staple on its menu for over a decade.

When you order chicken tortilla soup at Applebee's, you're getting a flavorful blend of traditional Mexican ingredients with American comfort food appeal. This beloved menu item combines tender shredded chicken with a rich, slightly spicy broth that forms the foundation of this satisfying dish. Understanding what makes Applebee's version distinctive helps explain its enduring popularity among casual dining soup options.

What Sets Applebee's Chicken Tortilla Soup Apart

Unlike traditional Mexican tortilla soup which often features whole tortillas simmered in broth, Applebee's version presents a more Americanized interpretation. The restaurant's soup contains a carefully balanced blend of ingredients that create a consistently flavorful experience across all locations. Key components include:

• Shredded white meat chicken
• Black beans for protein and texture
• Sweet corn kernels
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies
• Jalapeño peppers for mild heat
• Monterey Jack cheese topping
• Freshly fried tortilla strips

The soup's distinctive flavor comes from a proprietary blend of spices that gives it a warm, slightly smoky profile without overwhelming heat. This approach makes it accessible to a wide range of palates while still delivering authentic Southwestern notes.

Nutritional Profile and Dietary Considerations

For health-conscious diners curious about chicken tortilla soup Applebee's nutrition facts, a standard serving (1 cup) contains approximately:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	180
Total Fat	7g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	35mg
Sodium	980mg
Total Carbohydrates	19g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Protein	12g

While the soup provides a good source of protein and fiber, the sodium content is relatively high, which is common for restaurant soups. Those following specific dietary restrictions should note that the standard recipe contains dairy (cheese topping) and is not gluten-free due to potential cross-contamination in preparation.

How to Recreate Applebee's Chicken Tortilla Soup at Home

Many fans of this restaurant favorite search for an accurate chicken tortilla soup copycat recipe Applebee's style. While the exact proprietary recipe remains a secret, you can create a remarkably similar version with these ingredients:

Ingredients for Homemade Version

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Monterey Jack cheese
• Freshly fried tortilla strips

Preparation Steps

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and jalapeño, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and spices.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Stir in shredded chicken and heat through.
6. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve hot with generous toppings of cheese, fresh cilantro, and crispy tortilla strips.

For the most authentic chicken tortilla soup Applebee's taste, consider these professional tips:

• Use a combination of chicken breast and thigh meat for better flavor
• Add a splash of lime juice just before serving for brightness
• Fry your own tortilla strips for maximum crispness
• Let the soup sit for 30 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to develop
• Top with a dollop of sour cream for added richness

Menu Availability and Serving Suggestions

Applebee's typically offers their chicken tortilla soup as both an appetizer and as part of certain meal combinations. At many locations, you can order it as a cup or bowl, with the bowl size often served with a side of cornbread. The soup appears consistently on seasonal and permanent menus, demonstrating its popularity among customers seeking comforting Southwestern flavors.

When ordering chicken tortilla soup at Applebee's, consider these pairing suggestions:

• Classic Cobb Salad for a complete meal
• Southwest Riblets for added protein
• Any of their fajita entrees for thematic consistency
• A crisp margarita to complement the spicy notes

For those searching for applebees chicken tortilla soup near me, the dish is available at nearly all Applebee's locations across the United States and in many international markets where the chain operates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Applebee's chicken tortilla soup contain dairy?

Yes, Applebee's chicken tortilla soup contains Monterey Jack cheese as a topping. The soup base itself doesn't contain dairy, but the standard preparation includes cheese. Those with dairy sensitivities should request the soup without cheese.

Is Applebee's chicken tortilla soup gluten-free?

No, Applebee's chicken tortilla soup is not considered gluten-free. While the primary ingredients don't contain gluten, the soup is prepared in facilities where cross-contamination with gluten-containing ingredients may occur, and the tortilla strips contain wheat.

How spicy is Applebee's chicken tortilla soup?

Applebee's chicken tortilla soup has mild heat from jalapeños and chili spices. Most customers describe it as having a subtle warmth rather than significant spiciness. Those sensitive to heat can request it prepared with less spice, though this may vary by location.

Can I get a copy of Applebee's chicken tortilla soup recipe?

Applebee's does not publicly share their exact chicken tortilla soup recipe as it's considered proprietary. However, numerous copycat recipes exist that closely replicate the flavor profile using similar ingredients and preparation methods.

Does Applebee's offer a vegetarian version of their tortilla soup?

No, Applebee's does not currently offer a vegetarian or vegan version of their chicken tortilla soup. The standard recipe contains chicken broth and shredded chicken. Some locations might accommodate requests to modify the soup, but this isn't guaranteed.