CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Try this delicious CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe – I think you will be surprised how easy it is to make and how frugal you can make it. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a favorite for family dinners, and it’s versatile enough for any occasion, from a casual lunch to a cozy dinner party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comforting Flavor: Warm and savory, this soup captures the essence of the classic Panera Bread version.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with chicken, vegetables, and egg noodles, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Frugal Meal: With simple ingredients, this recipe is budget-friendly while still delivering great taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

To make the CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to blend together beautifully.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables without risk of injury or mess.
• Sharp knife: Makes cutting through chicken breast and vegetables quick and efficient, saving time in prep.

Ingredients

Try this delicious panera bread chicken noodle soup recipe – I think you will be surprised how easy it is to make and how frugal you can make it.

For the Soup Base

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breast
• 4 cups Chicken Broth
• 2 cups water (may need to add more)

Vegetables

• 4 Carrots (peeled and diced into bite size pieces)
• 2 Stalks Celery (diced into bite size pieces)
• 1/2 Onion (diced)

Seasoning

• 1 tsp Thyme
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 1 tsp Garlic Salt
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Pepper

Noodles

• 2 cups Egg noodles

How to Make CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the carrots, celery, and onion into small pieces. Cut the chicken breast into cubes if desired.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, water, chicken breast, carrots, celery, onion, thyme, bay leaf, garlic salt, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Add Noodles and Simmer

Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Add egg noodles to the pot. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes until the noodles are tender.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat. If desired, discard the bay leaf before serving. Ladle soup into bowls. Enjoy your homemade CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe warm!

How to Serve CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Serving your CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup can enhance the experience for everyone at the table. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate this comforting dish.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Dinner Rolls – Soft and fluffy dinner rolls provide a lovely contrast to the soup’s textures.

Add a Green Salad

• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing complements the flavors of the soup.
• Garden Salad – Mixed greens with assorted vegetables add freshness and crunch.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Chopped Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the dish visually and adds flavor.
• Lemon Wedges – Offering lemon wedges allows guests to add a zesty touch if desired.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personal Serving Bowls – Presenting the soup in stylish bowls can make the meal feel more special.

How to Perfect CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Perfecting your CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup ensures a delicious outcome every time. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect bowl of soup.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavors significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Shred Chicken Properly – Shredding chicken into bite-sized pieces allows for better distribution in the soup.
• Cook Noodles Separately – Cooking noodles separately prevents them from becoming mushy in the broth.
• Let it Simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer for a while helps meld all the flavors together.
• Store Correctly – If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup enhances your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty soup perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread – A classic choice that pairs well with any soup, easy to prepare by spreading butter and garlic on bread and toasting it.
2. Cheesy Quesadillas – Quick and cheesy, these can be made using flour tortillas and your favorite cheese for a delightful crunch.
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – A warm sandwich with melted cheese is an irresistible accompaniment, especially when dipped into the soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers – For a heartier option, stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, or meat can serve as a filling side dish.
5. Coleslaw – The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
6. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad brings comforting flavors that harmonize well with chicken noodle soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe can be simple, but common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using low-quality chicken: Always opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for better flavor.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can make your soup bland. Taste and adjust salt and spices as needed.
• Overcooking the noodles: Egg noodles can become mushy if overcooked. Add them in the last few minutes of cooking.
• Skipping the broth: Using water instead of chicken broth will reduce flavor. Stick with broth for richness.
• Ignoring vegetable sizes: Cut carrots and celery into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered until warm, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken can save time and add extra flavor to your soup.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or rice for a gluten-free option.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add peas or corn for added texture and nutrition.

What should I serve with the soup?

Consider serving with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is not only easy to make but also delicious and comforting. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Give it a try; you’ll love the cozy flavors!