Looking for the latest Applebee’s Salad Menu? This complete guide covers everything you need to know – fresh and flavorful salad options, updated prices, calorie details, ingredients, dressings, and helpful tips for choosing the perfect healthy meal at Applebee’s in 2026.
Applebee’s makes it easy to enjoy lighter, refreshing meals without compromising on taste. The Applebee’s salad menu features a variety of delicious options made with crisp greens, quality proteins, and bold dressings. Whether you’re craving a classic Caesar salad, a grilled chicken salad, or something more hearty like a crispy chicken or steak salad, there’s something to satisfy every appetite while keeping things balanced.
In this detailed guide, you’ll explore the full Applebee’s salad menu with prices, nutritional information, dressing choices, customization tips, and answers to common questions, helping you make the best choice for a fresh and satisfying dining experience.
When most people think of Applebee’s, they picture burgers, ribs, and sizzling skillets. But here is something a lot of people do not know — Applebee’s has one of the best salad menus in the casual dining world.
The Applebee’s Salads Menu is full of big, bold, filling salads that work just as well as a full meal as they do as a lighter option. Whether you are craving something crispy and indulgent like the fan-favorite Oriental Chicken Salad, something fresh and fruity like the Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad, or something classic and simple like the Grilled Chicken Caesar, Applebee’s has a salad for every mood and every appetite.
What makes these salads stand out from the competition is the generous portion sizes, high-quality fresh ingredients, bold dressings, and the variety of protein choices. You are not getting a boring bowl of plain greens. You are getting a real, satisfying meal — loaded with flavor, color, and texture.
In this complete guide, we cover everything you need to know about the Applebee’s salads menu in 2026 — every salad, what is in it, how many calories it has, how much it costs, what dressings are available, how to customize your order, and which salads are the healthiest picks. Let’s get into it.
Before we get into the individual salads, here is a quick look at what makes the Applebee’s salad menu worth ordering from:
Generous, meal-sized portions. These are not side salads dressed up as entrées. Most Applebee’s salads are substantial enough to be your full meal, packed with greens, protein, toppings, and dressing.
Fresh, quality ingredients. Every salad is built with crisp lettuce blends, fresh tomatoes, real cheeses, and proteins like grilled chicken breast, crispy chicken tenders, and blackened shrimp.
Full combo meals — entrée, side, or add-ons available. Many salads can be paired with soup, breadsticks, or a side as part of a lunch combo deal at participating locations.
Protein flexibility. On many salads, you can choose between grilled or crispy chicken, or swap proteins altogether — adding shrimp or steak.
Available for dine-in, takeout, and delivery. You can enjoy Applebee’s salads sitting in the restaurant, picking them up curbside, or having them delivered through the app.
Lunch-friendly pricing and combos. Many locations offer lunch specials on salads, with some items available at reduced prices during lunch hours, making them one of the best-value meals on the menu.
Here is a complete breakdown of every salad currently available on the Applebee’s menu in 2026, including what is in each one, approximate calorie counts, and prices.
A bold Tex-Mex inspired salad that turns everything you love about a chicken quesadilla into a fresh, satisfying bowl. This is one of the most unique and creative salads on the menu — and one of the most ordered.
What is in it: Fresh greens topped with crispy chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, black bean corn salsa, pico de gallo, and crunchy tortilla strips. Served with creamy Southwest-style dressing. The salad is accompanied by cheesy quesadilla slices on the side, making it half salad, half appetizer in the best possible way.
Why people love it: It is two things at once — a crisp, fresh salad and a cheesy, satisfying quesadilla experience. The tortilla strips add crunch, the black bean corn salsa adds sweetness and substance, and the cheesy quesadilla slices on the side make it feel like a full, complete meal. It is bold, filling, and deeply satisfying.
Approximate Calories: ~1,200–1,400 (varies by location)
Pro Tip: If you want to reduce calories, ask for the dressing on the side and skip the extra tortilla strips. The salad still has plenty of flavor and texture without them.
This is the most refreshing and unique salad on the Applebee’s menu. It is sweet, tangy, light, and feels genuinely different from anything else they serve — and it is one of the best options for anyone looking for something healthy and flavorful at the same time.
What is in it: A base of fresh spinach and arugula greens topped with juicy grilled chicken, fresh ripe strawberries, sliced almonds for crunch, and crumbled feta cheese. It is finished with a sweet balsamic vinaigrette dressing that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Why people love it: The combination of sweet strawberries, tangy feta, nutty almonds, and savory grilled chicken is a flavor combination that just works. The balsamic vinaigrette adds the perfect sweet and acidic note. This salad feels fresh and light without leaving you hungry, and it is one of the healthiest choices on the entire Applebee’s menu.
Approximate Calories: ~910
Pro Tip: This is one of the best salads to order if you are counting calories or eating lighter. The grilled chicken is lean, the strawberries add natural sweetness without sugar, and the almonds add healthy fats. Ask for the dressing on the side to control portions.
For anyone who loves Applebee’s famous chicken tenders, this salad puts them front and center — on a bed of fresh greens with classic American toppings and a crowd-pleasing dressing.
What is in it: Fresh salad greens topped with crispy, golden breaded chicken tenders, shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, and seasoned croutons. Served with honey mustard dressing, which pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken.
Why people love it: It is hearty, crunchy, and satisfying. The chicken tenders on top are the same fan-favorite tenders Applebee’s is known for — golden, crispy, and full of flavor. This is a great choice if you want something indulgent that still has plenty of fresh greens in it.
Approximate Calories: ~1,400 (estimated, varies by location)
Pro Tip: You can also ask for grilled chicken instead of crispy tenders to bring the calorie count down significantly while keeping the same great salad base.
The Applebees Grilled Chicken Tender Salad is a fresh and satisfying meal that combines healthy ingredients with great flavor. This salad is a popular choice for people who want something lighter than fried food but still filling enough for lunch or dinner. It brings together grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and tasty toppings in one bowl.
This salad is perfect for anyone who enjoys clean and simple flavors. The grilled chicken adds protein while the vegetables provide freshness and crunch. It is a good option for people who want balance in their meal.
Approximate Calories: ~1030 Cal
Pro Tip: You can also ask for grilled chicken instead of crispy tenders to bring the calorie count down significantly while keeping the same great salad base.
This is the most popular and most recognized salad on the entire Applebee’s menu. The Oriental Chicken Salad has been a guest favorite for years, and it is easy to see why. It is bold, crunchy, flavorful, and completely unlike any other salad on the menu.
What is in it: A bed of mixed greens and Asian-style cabbage blend topped with your choice of crispy or grilled chicken. It is piled high with sliced almonds for crunch, crunchy chow mein noodles, and finished with Applebee’s signature Oriental vinaigrette dressing. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory is truly one of a kind.
Crispy vs. Grilled: The crispy version uses breaded, fried chicken tenders for extra crunch and richness. The grilled version uses tender, juiced grilled chicken breast for a leaner flavor. Both are delicious — your choice comes down to whether you prefer something indulgent or a little lighter.
Why people love it: The contrast of textures — soft greens, juicy chicken, crunchy noodles, and toasted almonds — makes every bite interesting. The Oriental vinaigrette has a sweet-tangy flavor that is completely addictive. It is filling enough to be your whole meal, and it tastes like nothing else at a casual dining restaurant.
Approximate Calories:
Oriental Chicken Salad: ~1,560 calories
Pro Tip: Ask for the dressing on the side to significantly cut down on calories while still getting that amazing flavor with every few bites.
This is the most popular and most recognized salad on the entire Applebee’s menu. The Oriental Chicken Salad has been a guest favorite for years, and it is easy to see why. It is bold, crunchy, flavorful, and completely unlike any other salad on the menu.
What is in it: A bed of mixed greens and Asian-style cabbage blend topped with your choice of crispy or grilled chicken. It is piled high with sliced almonds for crunch, crunchy chow mein noodles, and finished with Applebee’s signature Oriental vinaigrette dressing. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory is truly one of a kind.
Crispy vs. Grilled: The crispy version uses breaded, fried chicken tenders for extra crunch and richness. The grilled version uses tender, juiced grilled chicken breast for a leaner flavor. Both are delicious — your choice comes down to whether you prefer something indulgent or a little lighter.
Why people love it: The contrast of textures — soft greens, juicy chicken, crunchy noodles, and toasted almonds — makes every bite interesting. The Oriental vinaigrette has a sweet-tangy flavor that is completely addictive. It is filling enough to be your whole meal, and it tastes like nothing else at a casual dining restaurant.
Approximate Calories:
Grilled Oriental Chicken Salad: ~1,440 calories
Pro Tip: Ask for the dressing on the side to significantly cut down on calories while still getting that amazing flavor with every few bites.
This is the Caesar salad for people who want something a little bolder and more exciting. Instead of chicken, this version features Cajun-blackened shrimp — spicy, smoky, and absolutely delicious on top of the classic Caesar base.
What is in it: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing, seasoned croutons, and shaved Parmesan, all topped with bold, Cajun-spiced blackened shrimp. A wedge of lemon on the side adds a fresh, bright finish.
Why people love it: The blackened shrimp bring a completely different energy to the Caesar salad. The Cajun spice adds warmth and depth, and the shrimp are tender and flavorful. If you love seafood, this is easily one of the best items on the Applebee’s salads menu.
Approximate Calories: ~860
Pro Tip: The lemon wedge is not just a garnish — squeeze it over the shrimp before eating. It brightens the flavors beautifully.
A smaller, side-sized version of the classic Caesar salad. Perfect as a companion to a main dish, or as part of a soup-and-salad combo at lunch.
What is in it: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy Caesar dressing with croutons and shaved Parmesan cheese.
Why people love it: It gives you all the flavors of the full Caesar salad in a smaller, more affordable portion. It is great for people who want to add a little something fresh alongside their main course without going overboard.
Approximate Calories: ~980 Cal
Pro Tip: The lemon wedge is not just a garnish — squeeze it over the shrimp before eating. It brightens the flavors beautifully.
| Items | Prices | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Quesadilla Chicken Salad | $16.19 | 2240 Cal |
| Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad | $13.19 | 910 Cal |
| Crispy Chicken Tender Salad | $13.19 | 1230 Cal |
| Grilled Chicken Tender Salad | $13.19 | 1030 Cal |
| Oriental Chicken Salad | $13.39 | 1560 Cal |
| Grilled Oriental Chicken Salad | $13.39 | 1440 Cal |
| Blackened Shrimp Caesar Salad | $14.19 | 860 Cal |
| Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad | $13.19 | 980 Cal |
Prices and calories may vary by location. Always check with your local Applebee’s for the most up-to-date information.
If you are eating at Applebee’s but want to make a healthy, nutritious choice, the salad menu is absolutely your best friend. Here are the top picks for health-conscious diners:
Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad This is the single most nutritious salad on the Applebee's menu. Grilled chicken provides lean protein, fresh strawberries add natural vitamins and antioxidants, almonds bring healthy fats, and the balsamic vinaigrette is one of the lightest dressings available. At around 910 calories (with dressing), it is satisfying without being excessive. Order the dressing on the side and you bring it down even further.
Blackened Shrimp Caesar Salad At approximately 860 calories, the Blackened Shrimp Caesar is actually one of the lighter full-entrée salads on the menu — especially for a protein-packed dish with bold Cajun flavor. The shrimp are low in fat and high in protein, making this a great choice for anyone looking for a lean, filling meal.
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad (no croutons) Remove the croutons from the Grilled Chicken Caesar and ask for the dressing on the side, and you have a low-carb, high-protein salad that is still rich and satisfying.
House Side Salad or Caesar Side Salad If you are having a lighter lunch and pairing your salad with soup or a small appetizer, either of the side salads is the perfect choice. Fresh, simple, and affordable.
Applebee’s is committed to making it easy for guests to understand what is in their food. Here is what you need to know about allergens and dietary considerations when ordering salads:
Common allergens found in Applebee’s salads:
Gluten-Sensitive Options: Some salads can be made in a gluten-sensitive version by removing croutons, noodles, and tortilla strips. However, because Applebee’s kitchens use shared preparation surfaces and equipment, cross-contact with gluten-containing ingredients may still occur. Applebee’s uses the term “gluten-sensitive” and not “gluten-free.” If you have celiac disease, please speak directly with the manager before ordering.
Where to Find Full Nutritional Info: Applebee’s provides complete nutrition facts — including calories, total fat, sodium, carbohydrates, protein, and allergen information — on its official website and through its mobile app. You can review full details for every salad before you visit.
Lunchtime at Applebee’s is one of the best times to order a salad, because many locations offer special lunch deals and smaller portions at reduced prices.
Some Applebee's locations offer lunch-sized portions of select salads at a lower price. For example, the Oriental Chicken Salad is sometimes available as a lunch portion at around $10.99 to $12.49 — a few dollars less than the full dinner portion.
Many locations offer the option to pair a side salad with a cup of soup for a satisfying, lighter lunch combo. This is a great way to have a complete meal without overspending. Popular soup options to pair with a salad include French Onion Soup and Tomato Basil Soup.
Applebee's regularly runs its popular 2 for $25 promotion, which includes two full entrées plus a shared appetizer or two side salads. If you are dining with someone else, this is excellent value — two full meals and a shared starter for a very reasonable price.
Order a Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad or a Grilled Chicken Caesar with a cup of soup and an unsweetened iced tea or water. You will have a complete, satisfying, nutritious lunch for a very fair price.
Here are some simple but genuinely useful tips for getting the most out of the Applebee’s salads menu:
Full entrée salads at Applebee's range from approximately $11.99 to $16.99 depending on the salad and your location. Side salads are much more affordable, ranging from $4.99 to $6.99. Prices may vary slightly by region and between dine-in and delivery orders.
The Oriental Chicken Salad is consistently the most popular and most recognized salad on the Applebee's menu. It is a signature item that guests come back for again and again.
The House Side Salad (before dressing) is the lowest-calorie option, coming in around 200–300 calories. Among full entrée salads, the Blackened Shrimp Caesar (~860 cal) and the Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad (~910 cal) are the lightest options.
Yes. You can request most salads without the protein for a vegetarian option. The House Side Salad is naturally meat-free. Always let your server know your preference.
Some salads can be modified to remove gluten-containing ingredients (croutons, noodles, tortilla strips). However, Applebee's kitchens use shared equipment, so cross-contact may occur. They use the term "gluten-sensitive" rather than "gluten-free." If you have celiac disease, always consult with staff before ordering.
Yes. All salads on the menu are available for Carside To Go (curbside pickup) and delivery through the Applebee's website and app. Note that salads with dressings may be packaged with the dressing on the side to keep them fresh.
Many Applebee's locations offer lunch-sized portions of select salads at a lower price, as well as soup-and-salad combo options. Availability varies by location, so check with your local restaurant.
Many locations allow you to add grilled shrimp or grilled steak to any salad as a protein upgrade. Ask your server for current options and pricing.
Disclaimer: This website is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with Applebee’s or its parent company in any way. All trademarks, logos, and brand names are the property of their respective owners. The menu information provided is for general reference and informational purposes only.
Copyright © 2026 Applebee's
