Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe is made with chicken breasts, tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, corn kernels, onions, garlic, tomato sauce, hot sauce, cumin, chili powder, and crispy tortilla strips. This hearty and flavorful Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe creates a satisfying dinner that takes about 30 minutes to prepare and can serve up to 6 people.

Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Ingredients

• 14½ oz canned tomatoes, crushed or diced
• 14½ oz canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 10 oz tomato sauce (one small can)
• 2 medium chicken breasts (about 10 oz), boneless and skinless, diced
• 5½ oz yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup corn kernels, drained if using canned
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (your preferred type)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

For Crispy Tortilla Strips:

• 5 oz flour or corn tortillas, cut into strips
• 3 to 5 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

For Serving:

• 1 tsp chopped cilantro, per serving
• 1 lime wedge, per serving

Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Instructions

1. In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté for 3-5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the chicken, tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, chicken broth, corn kernels, hot sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink.
4. While the soup simmers, heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Line a plate or basket with paper towels.
5. Deep fry the tortilla strips in batches for 2-4 minutes or until golden and crispy. Drain on the paper towel-lined plate and season with salt while still warm.
6. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with crispy tortilla strips, and garnish with cilantro and a lime wedge. Serve with additional lime wedges if desired.

Recipe Tips

• Enhance Flavor with Fresh Herbs: Add a handful of fresh cilantro or parsley to the soup just before serving for a burst of freshness. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy kick.
• Boost Depth with Roasted Ingredients: For a richer flavor, consider roasting the diced tomatoes and onions before adding them to the soup. This caramelizes the sugars and adds a deeper, more complex taste.
• Improve Texture with Homemade Tortilla Strips: For the crispiest tortilla strips, make them fresh. Cut tortillas into strips, brush lightly with olive oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How To Store Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup

Refrigerate: Allow the Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container or cover the pot with plastic wrap. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup. First, let it cool, then place it in a freezer-safe container or a freezer bag. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

How to Reheat Leftover Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup

On The Stove: Pour the Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup into a pot and reheat over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the soup is heated through.

In The Microwave: Transfer a portion of the soup into a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

In The Air Fryer: While air fryers aren’t typically used for soups, you can heat the crispy tortilla strips separately by placing them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to refresh their crunch before serving the soup.

What To Serve Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup

Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup pairs well with fresh avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions. It can also be served alongside warm crusty bread, grilled chicken quesadillas, cornbread, and lightly salted tortilla chips for a more filling meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Simply shred or dice it and add it to the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat through.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the soup a day or two in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving. Just be sure to keep the tortilla strips separate until serving to maintain their crunch.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can. Add all the ingredients except the tortilla strips to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the tortilla strips right before serving.

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• Boiled Soup Recipe
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