Panera Chicken Soup - Nourishing Comfort Food

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

1. Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper.
2. 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

1. Dice the Onion and mince the garlic.
2. Slice the Carrots and Celery into thin rounds.

Step 3: Create the Base

1. 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

1. 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.

2. Simmer:

• Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. 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.

2. Season to Taste:

• Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish:

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

2. 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

1. 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.

2. 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!