Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comfort food classic that has been enjoyed by many for years. It’s a warm, hearty dish, perfect for a chilly day or when you’re craving something flavorful and filling. The combination of tender chicken, savory broth, and crispy tortilla strips creates a balance of textures and tastes that makes this soup irresistible. Whether you’re looking to recreate this dish at home or simply enjoy a delicious bowl of soup, this Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe will guide you through the process, making it easy to whip up at home.

In this post, we’ll dive deep into the recipe, providing detailed instructions, helpful ingredient insights, and tips to make your soup as close to the restaurant version as possible. Ready to make some magic in the kitchen? Let’s get started!

Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

This recipe mimics Applebee’s signature dish with a rich, flavorful base and the perfect toppings that elevate the taste. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that anyone can master, from beginners to experienced cooks. Let’s break down what you’ll need to get started!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a complete list of all the ingredients you’ll need to create this cozy, delicious soup at home. Most of these are common pantry items, but I’ve also added some special touches to help capture the authentic Applebee’s flavor.

For The Soup Base

• Chicken breast (boneless, skinless) – You can use thighs if you prefer darker meat. The chicken breast, however, gives the soup that lean, juicy protein we’re looking for.
• Chicken broth – A rich, hearty chicken broth is the backbone of the soup’s flavor. Opt for a low-sodium version to control the salt level.
• Diced tomatoes – Adds tang and depth to the broth.
• Green chilies (diced, mild) – A little kick without overpowering the soup.
• Onion (chopped) – Offers a subtle sweetness when sautéed, blending perfectly into the broth.
• Garlic (minced) – The aromatic foundation for any good soup.
• Cumin – Gives the soup that earthy, slightly smoky flavor.
• Chili powder – A necessary ingredient for that Tex-Mex spice.
• Paprika – Sweet, mild heat that rounds out the flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
• Olive oil – For sautéing and adding a touch of richness.

For The Toppings

• Crispy tortilla strips – These add a delightful crunch to each spoonful.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – For melty, cheesy goodness.
• Sour cream – Adds a creamy, tangy element that balances the spices.
• Fresh cilantro (optional) – For a touch of freshness and color.
• Lime wedges – A burst of citrus to brighten up the flavors.

Cooking Instructions

Ready to get started? Follow these step-by-step instructions to make Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup that’ll have your taste buds dancing.

1. Prepare The Chicken

   Start by cooking your chicken breast. You can either poach it in simmering water or cook it in a pan with a little olive oil. Once cooked through, shred it using two forks. Set it aside.

2. Sauté The Aromatics

   In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they’re translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, toss in the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Build The Soup Base

   Add the chicken broth to the pot, followed by the diced tomatoes and green chilies. Stir in your cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

4. Add The Chicken

   Stir the shredded chicken into the pot, letting it heat through and absorb all the delicious flavors. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.

5. Prepare The Tortilla Strips

   While the soup simmers, heat some oil in a frying pan and fry the tortilla strips until they’re golden and crispy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can bake them in the oven as well.

6. Serve And Top

   Ladle the soup into bowls, then garnish with a generous handful of crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for an added citrus punch.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this soup plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of why these ingredients are key to making the soup a success:

• Chicken Breast – Lean, juicy, and easy to shred, chicken breast is perfect for soups. It absorbs the flavors of the broth without being too heavy or greasy.
• Chicken Broth – Provides the base of the soup and helps deliver that deep, savory taste we crave.
• Cumin & Chili Powder – These spices are central to the flavor profile of any Tex-Mex dish. They bring warmth, depth, and a touch of smokiness to the soup.
• Tortilla Strips – The contrast between the crunchy strips and the smooth soup creates an addictive texture combination.
• Sour Cream – A creamy, tangy addition that cuts through the spice and adds richness.

Expert Tips

To make your Chicken Tortilla Soup even more delicious and close to the restaurant’s version, here are a few expert tips:

• Use a Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker version, pick up a rotisserie chicken. It adds more flavor without any extra effort, and the skinless breast meat shreds perfectly into the soup.
• Adjust the Spice: If you like your soup spicier, add more chili powder or even a chopped jalapeño for some extra heat. Conversely, if you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the chili powder or skip the green chilies.
• Fresh vs. Canned Tomatoes: If you have fresh tomatoes available, feel free to use them instead of canned. They’ll provide a fresher taste and slightly different texture.
• Simmer Longer for Deeper Flavor: If you have the time, let the soup simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes. The longer you allow it to cook, the more the flavors will meld together, and the better it will taste.
• Cheese Variations: While shredded cheddar cheese is a classic topping, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a creamier texture.

Recipe Variations

While this recipe is delicious as-is, there are a few ways to mix it up:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use beans (black beans or pinto beans) for protein. You could also add extra veggies, like corn, bell peppers, and zucchini.
• Creamier Soup: If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in some heavy cream or half-and-half once the soup is simmering. This will give it a rich, velvety consistency.
• Spicy Kick: For a fiery version, add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or even a splash of hot sauce to the soup while it simmers.

Final Words

Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect dish for those who love hearty, flavorful soups with a little kick. By following these detailed instructions and tips, you can recreate this restaurant favorite in your own kitchen and enjoy it any time. With its delicious balance of savory chicken, rich broth, and crispy tortilla strips, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a household favorite.