Panera Chicken Noodle Soup is a favorite among many people who love simple, comforting meals. Known for its flavorful, homestyle broth, tender chicken, and curly egg noodles, this soup is both hearty and nutritious. Whether you’re enjoying it at Panera Bread or want to recreate the experience at home, this article provides all the details. We’ll go over the ingredients, the step-by-step recipe, tips for perfecting your soup, nutritional information, and common variations to suit your preferences. By the end, you’ll have a complete guide to making your very own version of Panera Chicken Noodle Soup.
The History of Panera Bread and Its Soups
Panera Bread, originally known as the St. Louis Bread Company, was founded in 1987. Over the years, it has grown to become a beloved fast-casual chain across the United States. One of Panera’s main draws is its dedication to quality ingredients and wholesome food. Among their most popular offerings are their soups, which range from Broccoli Cheddar to Chicken Tortilla. However, Chicken Noodle Soup remains a favorite, offering a comforting and familiar flavor that appeals to many.
What sets Panera’s Chicken Noodle Soup apart is its balance of flavors. The broth is savory, the noodles are just the right texture, and the chicken is tender and flavorful. Whether served in a bread bowl or alongside a sandwich, this soup is a go-to for many customers looking for a hearty yet light meal. Over time, it has become a fan favorite and a top seller on Panera’s soup menu.
Ingredients in Panera Chicken Noodle Soup
The ingredients used in Panera’s Chicken Noodle Soup are straightforward but carefully selected to ensure each bite is delicious. Understanding these ingredients is essential for recreating this dish at home.
- Chicken Breast: Panera uses white meat chicken in their soup. This is typically leaner and more tender than dark meat, making it an excellent choice for a healthy, light meal. For your homemade version, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts to keep the flavor profile consistent with the restaurant’s version.
- Curly Egg Noodles: The curly egg noodles are an iconic feature of Panera’s soup. They have a soft, chewy texture and absorb the flavors of the broth well. When shopping for noodles, look for ones that are sturdy enough to hold up during cooking but not so thick that they overpower the broth.
- Vegetables: Freshly diced carrots, celery, and onions are the base vegetables for this soup. These vegetables add flavor, color, and texture, making the soup more filling and nutritious.
- Aromatics: Garlic and onion are key aromatics in the soup, providing a rich base flavor. Sautéing them before adding broth releases their natural flavors, making the broth even more savory.
- Chicken Broth: A good quality chicken broth is the backbone of this recipe. For the best flavor, you can use a homemade broth or a high-quality store-bought version. If you want to avoid high sodium, consider a low-sodium broth option and season the soup to taste as it cooks.
- Olive Oil: Using olive oil to sauté the vegetables adds a subtle richness to the soup without overpowering the delicate flavors. It’s also a healthier fat option compared to butter.
- Seasoning: Simple seasonings such as salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme or parsley add layers of flavor. These herbs also give the soup a fresh, home-cooked feel.
How to Make Panera Chicken Noodle Soup at Home
If you want to bring the taste of Panera’s Chicken Noodle Soup to your kitchen, follow this easy step-by-step recipe. It requires minimal prep work and delivers a rich, hearty bowl of soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
Step-by-Step Recipe (Copycat Panera Chicken Noodle Soup)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 3 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. You will shred the chicken later, once it’s cooled down.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onions and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Then, add the diced carrots and celery. Sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Broth and Water: Pour in the chicken broth and water, bringing the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the vegetables to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Shred the Chicken: While the soup is simmering, shred the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the pot and let them cook in the broth for 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Stir occasionally to make sure the noodles cook evenly and don’t stick together.
- Season to Taste: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme before serving.
Serve hot with your favorite bread or side dish.
Nutritional Information of Panera Chicken Noodle Soup
When enjoying a bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup, it’s helpful to know the nutritional breakdown. Panera’s version is known for being a light yet satisfying meal option, making it a great choice for those looking to eat healthier.
- Calories: Approximately 200 per serving
- Protein: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 18 grams
- Fat: 8 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sodium: 700 milligrams
This soup is a balanced meal, offering a good source of protein from the chicken while keeping the calorie count low. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for something that’s not too heavy but still provides warmth and comfort, especially on colder days.
For those concerned about sodium levels, it’s important to keep in mind that most store-bought broths contain a significant amount of salt. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium version, opt for a reduced-sodium broth and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Noodle Soup
Even though Chicken Noodle Soup is a simple dish, there are a few tips that can take your homemade version to the next level.
1. Use Homemade Chicken Broth
Homemade broth is always going to deliver a richer flavor compared to store-bought. To make your own broth, simply simmer chicken bones, carrots, onions, celery, and herbs for a few hours. This creates a deeply flavored broth that elevates your soup.
If you’re interested in learning more about how to make chicken broth, this guide from Bon Appétit can walk you through the process.
2. Cook Noodles Separately
If you’re making a large batch of soup or planning to store leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately. This prevents them from absorbing too much broth and becoming mushy when reheated. You can add the noodles to each bowl individually and pour the hot broth over them when serving.
3. Add Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor
To give your soup a fresh, vibrant flavor, sprinkle chopped parsley, thyme, or dill on top just before serving. Herbs add brightness and a fresh aroma that complements the rich, savory broth.
Common Variations of Chicken Noodle Soup
One of the great things about Chicken Noodle Soup is how versatile it is. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs or preferences. Here are some popular variations:
Gluten-Free Chicken Noodle Soup
If you need a gluten-free option, simply substitute the egg noodles with a gluten-free variety, such as rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Many grocery stores now offer a wide range of gluten-free pasta options that work perfectly in soups.
Low-Carb Chicken Noodle Soup
For a low-carb version of this soup, replace the noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles. Both options are low in carbohydrates and still provide the same satisfying texture in the soup.
Vegetarian Noodle Soup
For a vegetarian take on this classic, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, or potatoes, to make the soup more filling.
Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup
If you like a little heat in your soup, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth. You can also experiment with other spices like cumin or turmeric for a different flavor profile.
Pairing Panera Chicken Noodle Soup with Other Dishes
Although Chicken Noodle Soup is a hearty meal on its own, pairing it with the right side dish can create a more complete dining experience. Here are a few ideas for sides that complement this soup:
- Caesar Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy dressing pairs well with the warm and savory soup.
- Garlic Bread: A slice of crusty garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, adding a delicious garlicky flavor to every bite.
- Fruit Salad: For a refreshing contrast, serve a simple fruit salad with your soup. The natural sweetness of the fruit balances the savory notes of the soup.
If you’re looking for more ideas on what to pair with your soups, Healthline has a helpful article on healthy side dishes that work well with soups.
FAQs About Panera Chicken Noodle Soup
What are the main ingredients in Panera Chicken Noodle Soup?
Panera’s Chicken Noodle Soup is made with chicken breast, egg noodles, carrots, celery, onions, and a seasoned chicken broth. These ingredients create a flavorful and balanced dish that’s both hearty and light.
Can you freeze Panera Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. However, it’s best to freeze the broth and vegetables separately from the noodles. This prevents the noodles from becoming mushy when reheated. To reheat, simply cook the noodles fresh and add them to the thawed soup.
How many calories are in Panera’s Chicken Noodle Soup?
Each serving of Panera Chicken Noodle Soup contains about 200 calories, making it a relatively light meal. The calorie count can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used and the portion size.
Is Panera Chicken Noodle Soup gluten-free?
No, the original Panera Chicken Noodle Soup contains wheat-based egg noodles, which are not gluten-free. However, you can easily make a gluten-free version at home by substituting the noodles with a gluten-free alternative.
What is the sodium content of Panera’s Chicken Noodle Soup?
A typical serving of Panera Chicken Noodle Soup contains about 700 milligrams of sodium. If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can use a low-sodium broth when making the soup at home and season it to your taste.
Conclusion
Panera Chicken Noodle Soup is more than just a comforting meal; it’s a nutritious, flavorful dish that you can easily recreate at home. With simple ingredients like chicken, egg noodles, and fresh vegetables, you can enjoy a hearty bowl of soup any time you want. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it to your liking, this copycat recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a homemade version of this beloved Panera classic.