Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup - Comforting Classic

If you're a fan of Panera Bread's comforting chicken noodle soup, you'll be thrilled to learn how to recreate it in your own kitchen. This guide will walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make this delicious soup at home. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness that's perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups of chopped carrots
• 2 cups of chopped celery
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 8 cups of chicken broth
• 2 cups of wide egg noodles
• 2 tbsp of olive oil
• 1 tsp of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season and Cook the Chicken:

• Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
• Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat in a large pot.
• Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are fully cooked.
• Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

2. Sauté the Carrots, Celery, and Onion:

• In the same pot, add the chopped carrots, celery, and diced onion.
• Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

3. Add the Broth and Seasonings:

• Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

4. Shred the Cooked Chicken:

• While the soup is simmering, shred the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
• Add the shredded chicken back into the pot.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

5. Add the Egg Noodles:

• Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 7-10 minutes, until they are tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

6. Season and Garnish:

• Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
• Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Perfect Pairings for Your Soup

To make your meal even more delightful, consider pairing your homemade chicken noodle soup with:

• Crusty Bread:
• A warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Fresh Salad:
• A light, crisp salad complements the heartiness of the soup.

Health Benefits of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Homemade chicken noodle soup is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:

• Rich in Nutrients:
• The combination of chicken, vegetables, and broth provides essential vitamins and minerals.
• Low in Calories:
• Compared to some restaurant versions, homemade soup can be lower in calories and sodium.
• Boosts Immunity:
• The warm broth and nutritious ingredients can help soothe colds and boost your immune system.

Final Thoughts

Recreating Panera Bread's famous chicken noodle soup at home is simple and deeply satisfying. With this recipe, you'll enjoy the warmth and comfort of homemade soup anytime you like. Plus, you'll have the joy of knowing exactly what goes into your meal.

Ready to give it a try? Grab your ingredients and start cooking today! Your family and friends will be impressed by your culinary skills and the delicious flavors of this classic soup.