Easy Copycat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

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Copycat Panera Bread Chicken is a delightful way to bring the comforting taste of Panera right into your kitchen. This recipe captures the essence of their famous chicken noodle soup, delivering warmth and flavor that evokes that cozy café experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or comfort food on a chilly day, this easy recipe checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Panera Bread Chicken

This Copycat Panera Bread Chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers numerous benefits. First, it’s simple to prepare, requiring minimal cooking skills and only 45 minutes from start to finish. You can use rotisserie chicken, making it even quicker. It’s also a healthy option, packed with protein and vegetables, making it an ideal choice for those following a gluten-free diet. Plus, if you love Panera Bread chicken recipes, this dish will satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. Finally, it’s a versatile recipe, allowing you to customize ingredients to suit your taste!

Ingredients for Copycat Panera Bread Chicken

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
2 cups egg noodles
1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Copycat Panera Bread Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring it to a boil.
Step 5: Stir in the shredded chicken, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 6: Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes until tender.
Step 7: If using frozen peas, stir them in during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Your Easy Copycat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup is now ready to serve!

Pro Tips for the Best Copycat Panera Bread Chicken

Keep these in mind:

For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
If you want to thicken your soup, add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the simmering step.
Don’t skip the fresh parsley garnish; it adds a burst of freshness and color.
Use a mix of chicken breast and dark meat for a more flavorful soup.

Best Ways to Serve Copycat Panera Bread Chicken

Here are a few serving ideas:

Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping, reminiscent of your favorite Panera Bread chicken sandwich copycat.
Pair with a simple salad for a well-rounded meal, like a homemade Panera chicken salad.
For an extra twist, add some spinach or kale for a healthy boost.

How to Store and Reheat Copycat Panera Bread Chicken

To store, let your soup cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. This is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish any day of the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Copycat Panera Bread Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Copycat Panera Bread Chicken?

The key to perfecting this dish is to use high-quality chicken broth and fresh vegetables. Incorporating herbs like thyme and parsley also enhances the flavor, making it taste like a true Panera-style chicken bowl.

Can I make Copycat Panera Bread Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Copycat Panera Bread Chicken?

One common mistake is overcooking the noodles. Add them towards the end of the cooking process to ensure they remain tender but not mushy. Also, adjust seasoning to your taste for the best results.

Variations of Copycat Panera Bread Chicken You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

For a twist on the classic, try adding spinach or kale for added nutrients.
Switch out egg noodles for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, depending on your dietary needs.
Make it a Copycat Panera Bread BBQ chicken by incorporating BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
Add broccoli for a delicious Copycat Panera chicken and broccoli recipe.