Introduction
Let’s be honest—when most people think of Applebee’s, "healthy dining" probably isn’t the first phrase that comes to mind. You’re more likely picturing a plate stacked with baby back ribs or a sizzling skillet of cheesy goodness. But if you’re trying to eat a little cleaner without skipping out on flavor, you might be surprised by what Apple Bees menu has to offer.
Their salad menu is a hidden gem for health-conscious diners, balancing taste, nutrition, and variety in ways that go well beyond your typical side salad. Ready to discover which leafy legends deserve a spot on your plate? Let’s dig in.
Applebee’s Salad Menu With Prices
Applebee’s current salad lineup features a mix of protein-packed, flavor-forward options that don’t feel like an afterthought. As of 2025, here’s what you can expect to find:
Quesadilla Chicken Salad – $13.99
Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad – $14.29
Grilled Chicken Tender Salad – $12.49
Oriental Chicken Salad – $13.79
Grilled Oriental Chicken Salad – $13.79
Note: Prices may vary slightly depending on your location, but these numbers give you a solid ballpark.
Now, let’s break down what makes each of these salads worth your fork.
Quesadilla Chicken Salad
If you’re the kind of person who orders a salad but secretly wants nachos, this one’s for you. The Quesadilla Chicken Salad is where Tex-Mex meets garden fresh. It features grilled chicken breast slices atop a bed of crisp lettuce, with a colorful mix of corn, black bean salsa, and shredded cheese. But the real kicker? The warm, cheesy quesadilla wedges served right on the side.
You get crunch, spice, and creamy goodness all in one bowl—and yes, it still counts as a salad. It’s a great choice if you’re easing into healthier eating without giving up bold flavors.
Strawberry Chicken Salad
Looking for something on the lighter, fruitier side? The Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad is a refreshing option that still manages to feel satisfying. It combines grilled chicken with fresh greens, sweet strawberries, tangy balsamic glaze, and a sprinkle of almonds. It’s topped off with crumbled feta, which adds just the right amount of richness.
This salad strikes a sweet-savory balance that’s ideal for warm days or whenever you want a meal that feels fresh and vibrant. It’s also one of the more colorful plates on the menu—and we all know we eat with our eyes first.
Grilled Chicken Tender Salad
This one keeps things simple but still satisfying. The Grilled Chicken Tender Salad focuses on the basics done right: grilled chicken tenders, crisp romaine lettuce, chopped tomatoes, red onions, and shredded cheese, all tied together with your choice of dressing.
It’s a solid go-to for those who want a low-carb, high-protein meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. If you're building better habits, this salad is your no-fuss friend.
Oriental Chicken Salad
Now we’re getting into classic territory. The Oriental Chicken Salad is one of Applebee’s most popular items—and for good reason. It features breaded chicken tenders (or grilled if you prefer), atop a bed of Asian greens, shredded carrots, almonds, and crispy rice noodles. The signature Oriental vinaigrette pulls it all together with a slightly sweet, tangy finish.
It’s not the lowest-calorie option, especially with the fried chicken, but it’s a crowd-pleaser that hits that perfect sweet-and-savory balance. Want a slightly lighter version? Go with the grilled chicken instead.
Why Everyone Should Try Applebee’s Salad
So, what makes Applebee’s salads more than just side-dish fillers? It comes down to three things: variety, flavor, and portion size.
Variety: Whether you’re into fruity, cheesy, protein-packed, or veggie-forward, there’s something for every palate.
Flavor: Applebee’s doesn’t hold back on ingredients. From seasoned chicken to house-made dressings, you get real flavor in every bite.
Portions: These aren’t rabbit-food salads. Applebee’s plates are generous, making them a true meal and not just a guilt-fueled compromise.
And let’s not forget convenience. For health-conscious diners who still want the ease of eating out, Applebee’s strikes a nice balance. You can make smart choices without feeling like you’re giving anything up.
FAQs - Applebee’s Salad Menu
Q: Are Applebee’s salads healthy?
A: Many of them can be! Stick with grilled proteins, watch the dressing amounts, and skip extras like fried toppings if you're trying to keep it light.
Q: Can I customize my salad?
A: Yes. You can request grilled instead of fried chicken, ask for dressing on the side, or add/remove ingredients based on your dietary needs.
Q: Are there vegetarian options?
A: While most salads are built around chicken, you can ask to leave it off. Adding extra veggies or nuts can help keep the salad filling.
Q: Do they offer low-calorie dressings?
A: Yes, Applebee’s usually offers a light Italian or low-fat vinaigrette. Always worth asking your server for options.
Q: Which salad is best for high-protein diets?
A: The Grilled Chicken Tender Salad is a great pick, but the Quesadilla and Oriental Chicken Salads (with grilled chicken) also pack plenty of protein.
Conclusion
In a world where eating out often feels like an all-or-nothing gamble with your health, Applebee’s salads offer a welcome middle ground. They’re flavorful, filling, and flexible enough to fit a variety of dietary goals. Whether you’re counting calories, looking for more greens in your life, or just trying to balance indulgence with wellness, this menu has you covered.
So next time you’re at Applebee’s and tempted by the burger section, maybe glance a little further down the page. Your tastebuds—and your waistline—might thank you.
