Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

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Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe – the name itself invokes warmth and comfort. In this article, we’ll delve into the heartwarming world of this beloved dish. We’ll explore its roots in Panera Bread’s legacy, understand why it holds a special place in our hearts, and discover the reasons to embark on the delightful journey of making Panera Chicken Noodle Soup at home.

Introduction to Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Panera Bread, the renowned bakery-café chain, is celebrated for its delectable soups, sandwiches, and pastries. Among its offerings, Panera Chicken Noodle Soup stands out as an epitome of comfort food. This classic soup boasts tender pieces of chicken, soft egg noodles, and a savory broth that warms the soul.

Panera Bread’s Soup Legacy

The Panera Bread legacy dates back to the early ’80s when it was known as the St. Louis Bread Company. With a focus on serving freshly baked bread and high-quality food, it eventually became Panera Bread as we know it today. The introduction of Panera Chicken Noodle Soup was a natural extension of their commitment to nourishing and comforting meals.

Reasons to Make Panera Chicken Noodle Soup at Home

While Panera Bread offers this delightful soup at its cafes, there are compelling reasons to recreate it in your own kitchen:

Homemade Goodness: Crafting it at home allows you to enjoy the wholesome flavors of a homemade meal.
Customization: You can adjust the ingredients and seasonings to your taste, creating a personalized version.
Anytime Comfort: No need to wait for the seasonal availability of Panera’s soup; you can relish it whenever you desire.

Now that we’ve set the stage by exploring Panera Chicken Noodle Soup’s introduction and its connection to Panera Bread’s legacy, let’s travel back in time to uncover the fascinating history of this beloved soup.

While you enjoy the comforting warmth of Panera Chicken Noodle Soup, why not pair it with a slice of homemade bakery-style banana bread? Learn how to make it here.

The History of Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Origins of Panera Bread’s Soup

The origins of Panera Chicken Noodle Soup can be traced back to the early days of the bakery-café. As the St. Louis Bread Company (Panera’s predecessor), the establishment prioritized serving freshly baked bread and delectable food items. Recognizing the need for a comforting soup, the recipe for Chicken Noodle Soup was born.

Homemade Inspiration: The soup drew inspiration from traditional homemade recipes, aiming to bring that same comforting experience to Panera’s patrons.

Evolution of the Recipe

Over the years, Panera Chicken Noodle Soup has evolved, incorporating feedback from customers and culinary innovations. The result is a soup that captures the essence of homemade goodness while embracing modern tastes.

Perfecting the Broth: Panera’s chefs have diligently worked on perfecting the soup’s broth, ensuring it’s rich, flavorful, and packed with real chicken essence.
Ingredient Selection: The careful selection of tender chicken pieces and quality noodles contributes to the soup’s delightful texture and taste.

Popularity Among Panera Bread Patrons

Panera’s Chicken Noodle Soup has garnered a dedicated following, with patrons eagerly anticipating its presence on the menu. The soup is renowned for its comforting qualities and is often seen as a welcoming meal that brightens any day.

Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s a piece of Panera Bread’s heritage and a cherished creation that warms both the body and the soul. Now that we’ve explored its origins and significance, it’s time to embark on the journey of recreating this delightful soup at home.

If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat after your savory soup, check out this moist banana bread recipe that’s perfect for dessert or a snack.

Ingredients and Equipment for Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

List of Ingredients

Before we dive into the heartwarming process of making Panera Chicken Noodle Soup, let’s gather the essential ingredients that make this dish a comforting delight:

Chicken: You’ll need about 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, approximately 1 pound in total.
Chicken Broth: Opt for high-quality chicken broth or stock, around 8 cups.
Egg Noodles: Classic wide egg noodles are perfect, usually about 8 ounces (half a package).
Carrots: Two large carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds or diced.
Celery: Two to three celery stalks, finely chopped.
Onion: One medium-sized onion, finely diced.
Garlic: Two cloves of garlic, minced.
Thyme: A few fresh thyme sprigs or dried thyme leaves for added flavor.
Bay Leaves: Two bay leaves to infuse the broth with aroma.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Olive Oil: A small amount for sautéing.

Equipment You’ll Need

To embark on your Panera Chicken Noodle Soup journey, ensure you have these essential kitchen tools at your disposal:

Large Soup Pot: A sturdy and spacious soup pot or Dutch oven is crucial for simmering the soup.
Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping and preparing the vegetables and chicken.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure precise measurements for the ingredients.
Stirring Utensil: A long-handled spoon or ladle for stirring the soup.
Strainer or Colander: For draining the cooked noodles.
Soup Bowls: To serve up generous portions of the soup.
Optional: Fresh Herbs: If you wish to garnish your soup, have some fresh parsley or dill on hand.

Sourcing High-Quality Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the flavor and overall experience of your Panera Chicken Noodle Soup. Here are some tips for sourcing top-notch ingredients:

Chicken: Opt for high-quality chicken breasts from a trusted source. Organic or free-range chicken often offers the best flavor.
Broth: Select a chicken broth or stock with rich and savory flavor, preferably low in sodium.
Noodles: Choose reputable brands of wide egg noodles or consider making your own for an authentic touch.
Vegetables: Fresh and locally sourced vegetables tend to have better flavor and texture. Look for organic carrots and celery for optimal taste.
Herbs: If using fresh herbs, consider getting them from your local farmers’ market or growing them in your garden for that added freshness.

For those who love classic soup recipes, explore this take on Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup for another cozy meal option.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Preparing the Chicken

Chicken Preparation: Start by trimming and cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Sautéing Chicken: In your large soup pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté them until they’re no longer pink. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Creating the Soup Base

Sautéing Vegetables: In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if necessary. Sauté the diced onion, chopped celery, carrots, and minced garlic until they become tender and fragrant.
Incorporating Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring it covers the sautéed vegetables. Add the bay leaves and thyme sprigs (or dried thyme). Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil.

Adding Vegetables and Noodles

Vegetable and Chicken Reunion: Return the sautéed chicken to the pot with the simmering broth and vegetables. Let them simmer together for about 15 minutes to infuse flavors.
Cooking Noodles: In a separate pot, cook the wide egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Properly cooked noodles will retain their texture and not become mushy.
Draining Noodles: Once cooked, drain the noodles using a strainer or colander. Rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.

Simmering and Seasoning

Incorporating Noodles: Add the cooked and drained noodles to the pot with the simmering soup. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
Taste and Season: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember to remove the bay leaves before serving as they are for flavor infusion and not for consumption.

Serving and Garnishing

Ready to Serve: Ladle the steaming hot Panera Chicken Noodle Soup into soup bowls, and it’s ready to be enjoyed.
Optional Garnish: For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill.

Now that you’ve successfully followed these steps, you’re ready to savor the comforting flavors of your homemade Panera Chicken Noodle Soup. Enjoy the warmth and nostalgia this delightful dish brings to your table!

Curious about how other popular eateries make their chicken noodle soup? Check out this version inspired by Chick-fil-A.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Achieving the Right Texture

When it comes to Panera Chicken Noodle Soup, achieving the perfect texture is key to replicating the comforting experience you’d find at the cafe. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out just right:

Noodle Doneness: Cook the egg noodles separately and add them to the soup just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy. This maintains that desirable al dente texture.
Tender Chicken: Make sure not to overcook the chicken during the initial sauté. The goal is to keep it tender and flavorful, so it melts in your mouth.
Balanced Broth: Adjust the broth-to-noodle ratio to your preference. Some like it soupier, while others prefer a thicker consistency. Tailor it to your liking.

Enhancing Flavor Profile

Elevating the flavor profile of your Panera Chicken Noodle Soup can take it from delicious to extraordinary. Consider these enhancements to make your homemade soup truly exceptional:

Fresh Herbs: Garnish your soup with a handful of fresh parsley, dill, or chives just before serving. It not only adds a burst of color but also infuses fresh herbal notes.
Lemon Zest: For a subtle hint of brightness, add a pinch of lemon zest to your bowl. It can elevate the overall taste by offering a citrusy contrast to the savory broth.
Parmesan Cheese: If you want to create a richer and creamier variation, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of each serving. The savory depth it adds is delightful.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Properly storing and reheating your Panera Chicken Noodle Soup is crucial to maintain its quality and flavor:

Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating it. Store it in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you’ve made a larger batch, consider freezing individual portions in airtight containers or zip-top bags. When reheating, thaw it in the refrigerator first, and then gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Complement your Panera Chicken Noodle Soup with a fresh and crunchy side like this Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad.

Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe FAQs

What are the ingredients in Panera Chicken Noodle Soup?

Panera Chicken Noodle Soup is crafted with simple yet wholesome ingredients to ensure a comforting and satisfying bowl:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, carefully prepared.
Chicken Broth: High-quality chicken broth or stock, used as the flavorful base.
Noodles: Classic wide egg noodles, which impart that signature texture.
Vegetables: Sliced or diced carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and optional herbs like thyme and bay leaves for aromatic infusion.
Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and a touch of olive oil for sautéing.

Can I make Panera Chicken Noodle Soup without dairy?

Absolutely, you can create a dairy-free version of Panera Chicken Noodle Soup. To do so, simply omit the use of butter or any other dairy-based ingredients. Instead, use a non-dairy alternative like olive oil for sautéing. Additionally, ensure that the wide egg noodles or pasta you select are also dairy-free to maintain the soup’s dairy-free status.

How long does it take to cook Panera Chicken Noodle Soup?

The total cooking time for Panera Chicken Noodle Soup typically ranges from 45 minutes to an hour. This includes the preparation of ingredients, sautéing, simmering, and cooking the noodles. It’s a relatively quick and straightforward recipe, perfect for a cozy homemade meal.

What are some possible variations of Panera Chicken Noodle Soup?

While the classic recipe is beloved, there are several creative variations you can explore to suit your taste preferences:

Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Creamy Option: To create a creamier version, incorporate a cup of heavy cream or a non-dairy substitute.
Veggie-Packed: Enhance the nutritional value by adding more vegetables such as broccoli florets, peas, or spinach.
Thai-inspired: Infuse Thai flavors by adding lemongrass, ginger, and a splash of coconut milk for a unique twist on this classic comfort dish.

With these tips and answers to frequently asked questions, you’re well-equipped to master the art of Panera Chicken Noodle Soup. Whether you’re aiming to perfect the texture, enhance the flavor, or explore creative variations, this classic comfort dish can be customized to suit your culinary preferences. Enjoy the heartwarming goodness that comes from a bowl of homemade Panera-inspired Chicken Noodle Soup!