Is anything more comforting than a bowl of Panera Bread’s chicken soup on a cold day? This beloved dish is renowned for its hearty ingredients, flavorful broth, and soul-warming qualities. Whether you're a Panera fan or a soup lover looking to elevate your home cooking, this guide will help you recreate this iconic soup in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
- Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Chicken Broth: 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Carrots: 3 medium, peeled and sliced
- Celery: 3 stalks, sliced
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Egg Noodles: 2 cups wide egg noodles
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Bay Leaves: 2 leaves
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Fresh Parsley for garnish
Customization Options:
- Healthier Substitutes:
- Use whole wheat noodles instead of egg noodles.
- Substitute olive oil with avocado oil.
- Add extra vegetables like spinach or kale for a nutrient boost.
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large pot.
- Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool. Once cooled, shred the chicken using two forks.
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
- Dice the Onion and mince the garlic.
- Slice the Carrots and Celery into thin rounds.
Step 3: Create the Base
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cooking Instructions
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Add the Broth:
- Pour the chicken broth into the pot with the sautéed vegetables.
- Add the bay leaves and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Final Touches
- Add the Noodles and Chicken:
- Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 6-8 minutes).
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well.
- Season to Taste:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve:
- For an authentic Panera experience, serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad.
Serving and Storage
Presenting Your Soup
- Authentic Presentation:
- Serve the soup in large, rustic bowls to mimic the Panera experience.
- Pair with a warm baguette or a fresh green salad.
Storage Tips
- Storing Leftovers:
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating:
- Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat until heated through. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
Conclusion
Recreating Panera’s chicken soup at home is not only a fun culinary challenge but also a rewarding way to enjoy a beloved classic in the comfort of your own kitchen. Give this recipe a try and share your results with us! Feel free to explore other Panera-inspired recipes on our blog or visit your nearest Panera Bread to taste the original.
Happy cooking!
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