Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming meal that can bring everyone together, this Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is just the ticket! Imagine curling up with a warm bowl of homemade soup that’s packed with tender chicken and fresh veggies. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where comfort food is a must. Plus, you can whip it up in just 30 minutes—what’s not to love?

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of chilly days spent with loved ones. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a little pick-me-up, this soup will wrap you in warmth and satisfaction. So grab your favorite spoon and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare it ahead of time and store leftovers for later—perfect for meal prepping!
• Delicious Flavor: Packed with vibrant vegetables and savory chicken, each spoonful is bursting with flavor.
• Comforting Warmth: Nothing beats a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup on a chilly day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful soup! You probably have most of these staples in your kitchen already. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 celery ribs, diced
• 3 large carrots, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped (white or yellow)
• 6 cups / 1.4 l / 48 fl oz chicken broth (or chicken stock)
• 1 tsp salt, or to taste
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/4 tsp dried)
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 tsp Better-Than-Bouillon (chicken flavor)
• 6 cups / 300 g / 10.5 oz curly egg noodles
• 3 cups / 420 g / 15 oz rotisserie chicken, shredded

Variations

One of the best parts about this Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Here are some tasty variations:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some peas, corn, or green beans for an extra dose of nutrition and flavor.
• Change the Noodles: Try using whole grain or gluten-free noodles if you’re looking for healthier options.
• Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños!
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley to create new flavor profiles.

How to Make Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Start by adding the butter to a large stock pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once melted, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about five minutes until they become tender. This step is crucial because sautéing brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

Step 2: Add Chicken Broth

Now it’s time to pour in the chicken broth! Season it with salt (remember to taste first), pepper, bay leaves, and thyme. If you have Better-Than-Bouillon on hand, add a spoonful—it enhances the chicken flavor beautifully. Stir everything together and let those flavors mingle.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil

Cover your pot with a lid and bring the broth to a rolling boil. The steam trapped inside will help all those delicious flavors combine while ensuring that your soup cooks evenly.

Step 4: Add Noodles

Once boiling, gently add the curly egg noodles into the pot. Cook until they reach al dente—that’s Italian for firm to the bite. Be careful not to overcook them as they will continue cooking off the heat.

Step 5: Stir in Chicken

Now it gets even better! Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken until well combined. Give your soup another taste test here; adjust any seasonings if needed for that perfect flavor balance.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle your comforting soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of herbs if desired. Serve hot alongside some crusty bread or dinner rolls for dunking—it’s heavenly!

Step 7: Store

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for about four to five days depending on how fresh your chicken was.

And there you have it—a delightful Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe that warms both body and soul! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Making this Panera chicken noodle soup recipe is a breeze, especially with a few helpful tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use rotisserie chicken – This shortcut saves time and adds incredible flavor without the need to cook chicken from scratch.
• Don’t overcook the noodles – Adding them just before serving ensures they stay firm and don’t become mushy, enhancing the overall texture of your soup.
• Taste as you go – Adjusting seasonings throughout the cooking process helps you achieve the perfect balance of flavors tailored to your palate.
• Add fresh herbs at the end – This brightens the soup and adds a pop of color, making it visually appealing alongside enhancing the flavor profile.
• Store leftovers correctly – Keeping your soup in an airtight container helps maintain its freshness for several days, so you can enjoy those comforting leftovers!

How to Serve Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Serving your homemade Panera chicken noodle soup can elevate a simple meal into something truly special. Here are some suggestions for presenting this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a splash of color but also brings a fresh herbaceous note that complements the soup beautifully.
• Lemon wedges – Serving with a wedge of lemon allows guests to add a bit of citrus brightness, enhancing flavors in each spoonful.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread rolls – Freshly baked bread rolls are perfect for dipping into the broth, adding a satisfying crunch that complements the soup’s warmth.
• Garden salad – A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches – The gooeyness of melted cheese between two slices of crispy bread pairs wonderfully with warm chicken noodle soup, creating a nostalgic comfort food combination.
• Steamed vegetables – Lightly seasoned steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans provide an extra nutritional boost and vibrant color on the plate.

With these serving suggestions and tips at hand, you’re all set to enjoy a delicious bowl of Panera chicken noodle soup that’s sure to impress family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or to freeze for a rainy day.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will stay fresh for 4 to 5 days, depending on the freshness of your chicken.
• Before serving, give it a good stir and check for seasoning.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of each container since the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also microwave individual servings; cover and heat in intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken adds fantastic flavor and saves time. Just shred it and add it in at the end.

How long does this Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts about 4 to 5 days in the fridge. If frozen, it can be kept for up to 3 months!

What vegetables can I add to my Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?

Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans. Just ensure they are cooked until tender.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute curly egg noodles with gluten-free pasta of your choice, keeping an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe as comforting and satisfying as I do! It’s a wonderful way to bring warmth into your home, whether it’s a chilly day or you just need a little pick-me-up. Enjoy making this delightful soup and sharing it with loved ones. Happy cooking!