A bowl of creamy chicken tortilla soup topped with fresh cilantro, featuring shredded chicken, corn, and tomatoes in a rich orange broth, garnished with a tortilla chip.

How Many Calories Are in Chicken Tortilla Soup at Applebee’s? A Nutritional Guide

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Introduction

Overview of Chicken Tortilla Soup at Applebee’s

Chicken Tortilla Soup at Applebee’s is one of the signature menu items, celebrated for its rich, comforting flavors and hearty ingredients. This popular dish features tender chicken, a zesty tomato base, and vibrant vegetables, all seasoned with Southwestern spices. Topped with crispy tortilla strips and garnished with fresh cilantro or sour cream, Chicken Tortilla Soup at Applebee’s offers a delightful balance of taste and texture. For diners mindful of their diet, understanding the calories in Chicken Tortilla Soup at Applebee’s is key to enjoying this classic dish.

Why Nutritional Information Matters

In today’s health-conscious society, knowing the nutritional content of the foods we consume is more important than ever. For individuals with dietary restrictions, fitness goals, or health concerns such as managing calorie intake or monitoring sodium levels, having access to detailed nutritional information empowers better decision-making. When dining at restaurants like Applebee’s, understanding the caloric, fat, carbohydrate, protein, and sodium content of items like the Chicken Tortilla Soup allows guests to enjoy their meals while maintaining their personal health objectives. Additionally, it fosters transparency between establishments and customers, encouraging trust and informed dining experiences.

Calories in Chicken Tortilla Soup at Applebee’s

Calories in Chicken Tortilla Soup

Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delicious and satisfying menu choice, popular for its bold flavors and comforting texture. But how does it fit into your diet? A bowl of Chicken Tortilla Soup at Applebee’s contains about 230-300 calories, while a smaller cup of Chicken Tortilla Soup at Applebee’s has approximately 150-200 calories.

The calorie count depends on the serving size and optional toppings like tortilla strips, cheese, and sour cream. To enjoy Chicken Tortilla Soup at Applebee’s while keeping calories low, consider skipping high-calorie garnishes.

Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Nutrition

The nutritional value of Chicken Tortilla Soup at Applebee’s makes it a moderately healthy choice:

  • Protein: 12-15 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
  • Fat: 8-12 grams
  • Calories: Ranges from 150-300 based on serving size and extras.

Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup nutrition can vary slightly, so be mindful of additional toppings if you’re monitoring your diet. The soup’s tomato-based broth, shredded chicken, and vegetables provide a balanced combination of flavors and nutrients.

Micronutrients and Sodium Content

  1. Micronutrients
    • The soup provides some essential vitamins and minerals:
      • Vitamin A: Contributed by the tomato base and vegetables, beneficial for vision and immune health.
      • Vitamin C: From tomatoes and other fresh ingredients, aiding in immunity and skin health.
      • Iron: From chicken and vegetables, supporting red blood cell production.
      • Calcium: Minimal amounts from cheese or sour cream garnish.
  2. Sodium Content
    • One of the more significant aspects of the soup’s nutritional profile is its sodium content, which ranges from 800-1,000 milligrams per serving. This level represents a substantial portion of the recommended daily sodium intake (2,300 milligrams for most adults). While it enhances flavor, individuals monitoring their salt intake should be cautious, as high sodium levels can contribute to increased blood pressure and other health concerns.

For those looking to reduce sodium intake, requesting the soup without certain high-sodium toppings or pairing it with lower-sodium menu items can help.

Comparison with Other Soups at Applebee’s

Chicken Tortilla Soup vs. French Onion Soup

  1. Calories
    • Chicken Tortilla Soup: Typically contains 230-300 calories per bowl.
    • French Onion Soup: Higher in calories, often ranging from 350-450 calories per bowl due to the inclusion of cheese and bread.
  2. Macronutrients
    • Protein: Chicken Tortilla Soup generally provides more protein (12-15 grams) than French Onion Soup (7-10 grams), thanks to its chicken content.
    • Fat: French Onion Soup contains more fat (15-20 grams), primarily from the melted cheese topping, compared to Chicken Tortilla Soup’s 8-12 grams.
    • Carbohydrates: French Onion Soup has higher carbohydrates (30-40 grams) due to the bread and onions, while Chicken Tortilla Soup averages 20-25 grams.
  3. Sodium Content
    • Both soups are high in sodium, with French Onion Soup slightly higher, often exceeding 1,000 milligrams, compared to the Chicken Tortilla Soup’s 800-1,000 milligrams.

Chicken Tortilla Soup vs. Broccoli Cheese Soup

  1. Calories
    • Chicken Tortilla Soup: 230-300 calories per bowl.
    • Broccoli Cheese Soup: Higher in calories, typically ranging from 320-400 calories per bowl due to its creamy, cheese-laden base.
  2. Macronutrients
    • Protein: Chicken Tortilla Soup provides slightly more protein (12-15 grams) than Broccoli Cheese Soup (8-12 grams).
    • Fat: Broccoli Cheese Soup is significantly higher in fat (18-25 grams), driven by its cream and cheese content, compared to the 8-12 grams in Chicken Tortilla Soup.
    • Carbohydrates: Broccoli Cheese Soup has fewer carbohydrates (15-20 grams) compared to the Chicken Tortilla Soup’s 20-25 grams, as it lacks tortilla strips and tomato-based components.
  3. Sodium Content
    • Broccoli Cheese Soup is comparable in sodium, ranging from 850-1,000 milligrams, aligning closely with Chicken Tortilla Soup’s sodium levels.

Summary

  • Chicken Tortilla Soup is generally the lower-calorie option compared to French Onion and Broccoli Cheese Soup.
  • It offers a higher protein content than both alternatives, making it a better choice for those looking for a balanced and satisfying meal.
  • While its sodium levels are high, they are on par with other soups, making it important to consider if dietary sodium is a concern.
  • For those watching fat intake, Chicken Tortilla Soup is a leaner choice than French Onion and Broccoli Cheese Soup.

Health Considerations

High Sodium Content

One of the primary health concerns with Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is its high sodium content, which ranges from 800 to 1,000 milligrams per serving. This amount represents a significant portion of the recommended daily sodium limit of 2,300 milligrams for most adults (and even less for those with specific health conditions such as hypertension or heart disease). Excessive sodium intake is associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

To mitigate the impact of high sodium, diners can:

  • Pair the soup with a low-sodium side or salad to balance their meal.
  • Request no additional garnishes like tortilla strips, which may contain added salt.
  • Drink plenty of water to help offset the effects of sodium consumption.

Balancing Chicken Tortilla Soup in a Healthy Diet

To enjoy Chicken Tortilla Soup while maintaining a balanced diet, consider the following tips:

  1. Portion Control
    • Opt for a smaller, cup-sized serving instead of a full bowl to reduce calorie and sodium intake.
  2. Enhance Nutritional Value
    • Pair the soup with a side of fresh, non-starchy vegetables like a garden salad (with dressing on the side) to increase fiber and nutrients without adding significant calories or sodium.
    • Add a squeeze of fresh lime or extra herbs (if available) for flavor instead of relying on salty garnishes.
  3. Balance Macronutrients
    • If the soup is your main meal, complement it with a lean protein source or whole-grain option to make the meal more filling and nutritionally complete.
    • Avoid combining it with other high-fat or high-sodium menu items to keep the meal balanced.
  4. Consider Dietary Needs
    • For individuals on a low-sodium diet, Chicken Tortilla Soup may not be the best choice, but modifications such as requesting no cheese or tortilla strips can help reduce sodium.
    • Those with high-fat dietary restrictions might want to skip toppings like sour cream to lower fat content.

Customizing Your Order

Adjusting Portion Sizes

  1. Opt for a Smaller Serving
    • Many Applebee’s locations offer a cup-sized serving of Chicken Tortilla Soup, which is smaller than a full bowl. This option helps reduce calorie, fat, and sodium intake while still allowing you to enjoy the dish.
  2. Share a Bowl
    • If a smaller portion isn’t available, consider sharing a bowl with a dining companion. Splitting the soup can reduce your individual intake of calories and sodium while satisfying your craving.
  3. Pair with a Balanced Side
    • Balance your meal by pairing a smaller serving of soup with a nutrient-dense side like a house salad, steamed vegetables, or fresh fruit to increase fiber and vitamins without adding excessive calories or sodium.

Requesting Modifications

  1. Hold the Garnishes
    • Request the soup without additional toppings like crispy tortilla strips, cheese, or sour cream to reduce fat, calories, and sodium. These garnishes are optional and can significantly alter the soup’s nutritional profile.
  2. Ask About Low-Sodium Options
    • While menu customization may be limited, ask your server if a low-sodium version or adjustments can be made, such as reducing salt in preparation or serving the soup without salt-heavy broth or toppings.
  3. Add Fresh Ingredients
    • Enhance flavor and nutrition by requesting or adding fresh ingredients like a squeeze of lime, chopped cilantro, or diced avocado. These add-ons can boost flavor without contributing significant sodium or unhealthy fats.
  4. Customize the Pairing
    • If you’re ordering the soup as part of a meal combo, choose healthier accompaniments, such as grilled chicken or a vegetable-packed side, instead of high-calorie or fried options.

FAQs About Chicken Tortilla Soup at Applebee’s

What is Chicken Tortilla Soup made of?

Chicken Tortilla Soup is typically made with a tomato-based broth and seasoned with Southwestern spices such as chili powder and cumin. Common ingredients include:

  • Shredded chicken
  • Vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and peppers
  • Tortilla strips for added texture
  • Optional toppings like cheese, sour cream, and cilantro for flavor.

How many calories are in 1 cup of Chicken Tortilla Soup?

A 1-cup serving of Chicken Tortilla Soup generally contains about 150-200 calories, depending on the recipe and toppings.

Does Chick-fil-A Tortilla Soup have chicken in it?

Yes, Chick-fil-A’s Tortilla Soup includes shredded chicken. It also features navy beans, black beans, and spices in a creamy base, with tortilla strips added for crunch.