This soup is quick to make, flavorful, and very filling. Serve with warm corn bread or tortillas.
Applebee’s Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup is a popular and flavorful dish that combines the richness of cheese, the savory taste of chicken, and the crunch of tortilla strips. This soup is known for its comforting and satisfying qualities, making it a favorite among many soup lovers.
The soup starts with a base of chicken stock, which provides a flavorful foundation. It is then enriched with shredded chicken, adding protein and heartiness to the dish. The soup is infused with a variety of spices and seasonings, such as garlic, onion, chili powder, and Worcestershire sauce, which contribute to its bold and robust flavor profile.
One of the distinctive features of Applebee’s Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup is the addition of cheese, which gives the soup its creamy and indulgent texture. The cheese melts into the soup, creating a luscious and velvety consistency that coats the chicken and vegetables.
To add a delightful crunch and contrast to the creamy base, the soup is topped with crispy tortilla strips. These strips are typically baked until golden and crispy, providing a satisfying bite and enhancing the overall texture of the dish.
Applebee’s Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup is often garnished with a dollop of sour cream and additional cheese, elevating its presentation and adding a touch of tanginess. The combination of flavors and textures in this soup makes it a comforting and satisfying option for soup enthusiasts and fans of Mexican-inspired cuisine.
Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course, Applebee’s Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup offers a delicious and comforting dining experience for those seeking a hearty and flavorful soup option.
SERVES: 6–8
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 medium chopped onion
- ¼ cup chopped green pepper
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato purée
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 10 (6″) yellow corn tortillas
- 4 tablespoons flour
- ½ cup water
- 1 pound cooked chicken
- 1 cup cream
- ¼ cup nonfat sour cream
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cut into 1″ cubes
INSTRUCTIONS:
- In a large stockpot over medium heat, add oil and sauté garlic, onions, and green peppers.
- Add chicken stock, tomato purée, sugar, salt, chili powder, and Worcestershire sauce to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Cut tortillas into ¼” strips and bake in the oven at 400°F for 6–8 minutes until crispy.
- In a small bowl, mix flour and water, then whisk into the soup.
- Add chicken and cream, bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with the sour cream, cheese, and tortilla strips.
VARIATIONS:
- Spicy Chipotle: Add some heat to the soup by incorporating chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Chop a few peppers and stir them into the soup during the cooking process. The smoky and spicy flavor will give the soup an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, omit the chicken and replace it with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, corn, and black beans. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian-friendly base.
- Creamy Avocado: Enhance the creaminess of the soup by adding mashed avocado to the broth. Simply blend a ripe avocado with a bit of lime juice and stir it into the soup right before serving. The avocado adds a smooth and velvety texture to the soup.
- Southwest-Inspired: Give the soup a Southwest twist by incorporating ingredients like roasted corn, diced green chilies, and black beans. These additions will bring a delightful combination of flavors and textures to the soup.
- Loaded Toppings: Take the toppings to the next level by adding additional garnishes. Consider topping the soup with diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or crumbled queso fresco. These toppings will add freshness, crunch, and extra flavor to the soup.
- Tortilla Soup Casserole: Transform the soup into a casserole by layering tortilla strips, soup, and cheese in a baking dish. Repeat the layers and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This variation creates a hearty and cheesy dish with a satisfying texture.
