Panera’s Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a comforting favorite, perfect for chilly days. This easy-to-follow copycat recipe brings the same rich, creamy flavor right to your kitchen. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or prepping for a cozy dinner, this homemade version will hit the spot. With a few simple ingredients, you can recreate the magic at home. Keep reading for the full recipe, tips, and serving ideas!
Introduction: Panera Cream Of Chicken And Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Panera’s Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a perfect blend of savory chicken, earthy wild rice, and a rich, creamy broth. Known for its comforting flavor and satisfying texture, it’s become a staple at Panera Bread, often enjoyed during the colder months or as a wholesome lunch year-round.
This copycat recipe allows you to replicate that same comforting experience at home. Whether you’re a fan of Panera’s original or looking to try something new, this version captures the essence of the restaurant classic. Plus, making it from scratch means you control the ingredients, ensuring it’s as fresh and delicious as possible.
From the first spoonful, you’ll taste the rich flavors of tender chicken, perfectly cooked wild rice, and a blend of vegetables and herbs that round out the soup’s taste. The creaminess comes from a smooth base that’s thickened to just the right consistency—neither too heavy nor too light.
What makes this recipe even more appealing is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to your preferences by swapping out ingredients or adding your favorite seasonings. It’s also a great make-ahead meal, perfect for meal prepping or freezing for later.
Ingredients
To create a delicious copycat version of Panera’s Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, you’ll need a mix of basic pantry items, fresh ingredients, and a few key components that give the soup its signature flavor. Below is a breakdown of what you’ll need, along with ingredient notes and substitution options.
Key Ingredients:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs
- Chicken provides the protein and hearty texture. You can use chicken breasts for a leaner option or chicken thighs for more flavor.
Wild Rice
- The wild rice adds an earthy, nutty flavor and a chewy texture that complements the creamy broth. Use a wild rice blend for added variety, or stick to pure wild rice for an authentic touch.
Carrots, Celery, and Onion
- These classic soup vegetables form the base of the flavor, adding a subtle sweetness and crunch. They also balance the richness of the cream.
Garlic
- Fresh garlic brings an aromatic depth to the soup, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Butter
- Butter helps sauté the vegetables and adds a rich, velvety texture to the soup base.
Flour
- A bit of flour acts as a thickening agent, giving the soup its creamy consistency.
Chicken Broth
- Chicken broth is the liquid foundation of the soup. It enhances the chicken flavor and provides a savory depth to the base.
Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half
- For that signature creaminess, heavy cream or half-and-half is essential. Heavy cream makes it richer, while half-and-half is a lighter option.
Seasonings: Salt, Pepper, and Dried Thyme
- Simple seasonings allow the flavors of the soup to shine. Thyme adds an herbaceous note that complements the chicken and wild rice.
Bay Leaf
- A bay leaf imparts subtle aromatic flavors that deepen the broth’s complexity.
Olive Oil (Optional)
- For sautéing the vegetables, olive oil is an optional addition, or you can use more butter instead.
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions:
- Chicken Substitutions: If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with diced tofu or mushrooms. You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Wild Rice Options: If wild rice isn’t available, a blend of brown rice and wild rice can work well, though the texture will differ slightly.
- Cream Alternatives: For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
- Thickening without Flour: To make the soup gluten-free, you can use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend as a thickener instead of regular flour.
Ingredient Scaling:
1x, 2x, or 3x Recipe:
Adjust the ingredient quantities to match the number of servings you need. Doubling or tripling the recipe is easy, especially if you’re cooking for a large family or preparing it for meal prep.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to bring this copycat Panera Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup to life. Whether you prefer cooking on the stovetop, using an Instant Pot, or a slow cooker, these step-by-step directions will guide you through each method.
Stovetop Instructions:
Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat butter over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the Flour:
Stir in the flour to coat the vegetables, and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. This step will help thicken the soup.
Add Broth and Rice:
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Add the wild rice, bay leaf, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
Cook the Chicken:
While the soup is simmering, season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a separate pan, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken breasts (or thighs) for 5-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked. Shred or dice the chicken once it’s done.
Combine Chicken and Cream:
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the shredded chicken. Gradually add the heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring continuously until the soup reaches a creamy consistency. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Season and Serve:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Instant Pot Instructions:
Sauté the Vegetables:
Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add butter, and once melted, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the Flour:
- Stir in the flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
Add Broth, Chicken, and Rice:
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add the wild rice, chicken breasts (whole), thyme, and bay leaf.
Pressure Cook:
Lock the Instant Pot lid in place and set it to “Pressure Cook” on high for 30 minutes. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
Shred Chicken and Add Cream:
Remove the chicken breasts, shred them, and return them to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” again and simmer for 5-10 minutes to thicken the soup slightly.
Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.
Slow Cooker Instructions:
Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
Add the diced onions, carrots, celery, garlic, wild rice, chicken breasts, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Cook on Low or High:
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Shred the Chicken:
Remove the chicken breasts, shred them using two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Add Cream:
Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Cover and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes to allow the soup to thicken.
Serve:
Once thickened, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve the soup hot, garnished with parsley or fresh herbs if desired.
Final Tips for All Methods:
- Consistent Texture: If your soup is too thick, you can thin it out by adding extra chicken broth or water, a little at a time.
- Add Veggies Last: For a bit of crunch, add some fresh chopped vegetables (like spinach or kale) just before serving.
- Rice Cooking Tip: If you’re using a wild rice blend that cooks faster, reduce the cooking time to prevent mushy rice.
Tips for Making the Perfect Soup
To ensure that your copycat Panera Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips and tricks to keep in mind. These suggestions will help you enhance the flavor, texture, and overall quality of your soup.
Use High-Quality Ingredients
Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a big difference in the final taste of the soup. Opt for fresh chicken, organic vegetables, and a good quality wild rice blend if possible. High-quality chicken broth also adds depth to the flavor.
Sauté the Vegetables for Maximum Flavor
Taking the time to sauté the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic before adding them to the soup helps release their natural flavors and gives the soup a richer, deeper taste. Don’t skip this step, even if you’re using a slow cooker or Instant Pot.
Cook the Wild Rice Separately (Optional)
While you can cook the wild rice directly in the soup, cooking it separately and adding it toward the end helps ensure that the rice doesn’t overcook or become mushy. This is especially helpful if you’re making a large batch or plan to have leftovers.
Shred the Chicken for Better Texture
Shredding the chicken after it’s fully cooked creates a better texture that blends well with the creamy broth and wild rice. Use two forks to shred the chicken finely for even distribution in every bite.
Be Careful with Cream
When adding cream, do it slowly and at a low temperature to prevent curdling. Heavy cream is more stable than half-and-half, so if you’re concerned about curdling, opt for heavy cream. If you’re using a dairy-free alternative, make sure it’s heat-stable.
Adjust the Consistency
If your soup is too thick, you can easily thin it out by adding more chicken broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water).
Season Gradually
Season the soup in stages. Add a little salt and pepper during the cooking process, but taste and adjust at the end to avoid over-seasoning. The salt content of the chicken broth can vary, so it’s best to season carefully.
Don’t Rush the Simmering Process
Letting the soup simmer slowly allows the flavors to fully develop. If you rush the process, the soup may lack depth and complexity. Whether on the stovetop or slow cooker, give it time to simmer for the recommended duration.
Customize to Your Preference
This recipe is versatile, so feel free to make adjustments based on your taste. Add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or kale for extra nutrients. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or parsley, to tweak the flavor profile.
Make-Ahead for Better Flavor
Like many soups, this Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld. If you’re prepping ahead, you can store it in the fridge and reheat it when ready to serve.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Overcooking the chicken can make it dry, even in a creamy soup. If you’re using an Instant Pot or slow cooker, make sure to monitor the cooking time carefully and shred the chicken as soon as it’s done.
Control the Sodium
Store-bought chicken broth can be high in sodium, which can lead to an overly salty soup. Opt for a low-sodium broth, or make your own at home to control the salt content. You can always add more salt at the end if needed.
Add Fresh Herbs for Brightness
While dried herbs like thyme are great for simmering, adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme at the end can brighten the flavor and add a fresh, vibrant touch to the soup.
Recipe Variations
One of the great things about the Panera Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is its versatility. While the classic recipe is delicious, there are plenty of ways to modify it to suit different dietary needs, preferences, or simply to add some variety. Below are several recipe variations you can try, each offering a unique twist on the original.
Dairy-Free Version
- To make a dairy-free version of this soup, replace the heavy cream or half-and-half with a plant-based alternative. Coconut milk, almond milk, or cashew cream are all excellent substitutes that will still give you a creamy texture.
- Tip: If you’re using coconut milk, opt for full-fat canned coconut milk for a creamier consistency, but note that it will add a slight coconut flavor.
Gluten-Free Option
- For a gluten-free variation, simply swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch as a thickener. To use cornstarch, mix 1-2 tablespoons with cold water and stir it into the soup at the end of cooking to thicken the broth.
- Tip: Make sure to use a gluten-free broth if you’re avoiding gluten.
Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Soup
- If you’re looking to cut down on carbs, you can omit the wild rice entirely or replace it with cauliflower rice. Cauliflower rice will provide a similar texture without the carbs, making this soup more keto-friendly.
- Tip: You can add the cauliflower rice toward the end of cooking, as it cooks faster than wild rice.
Vegetarian or Vegan Version
- To make the soup vegetarian, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, or tofu.
- For a vegan version, in addition to omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth, also use a plant-based cream alternative like cashew cream or soy milk to maintain the creamy texture.
- Tip: Add a dash of nutritional yeast to give the soup a slightly cheesy, umami flavor that complements the creaminess.
Spicy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
- For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables. You can also stir in a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper toward the end of cooking for extra heat.
- Tip: For even more flavor, use spicy sausage or smoked sausage in place of the chicken.
Herb-Infused Soup
- Enhance the herbaceous flavor of the soup by adding fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley. You can even try infusing the soup with a sprig of fresh thyme or a few leaves of bay during cooking and then remove them before serving.
- Tip: Fresh herbs should be added toward the end of cooking to retain their bright flavor, while dried herbs can be added earlier for a more subtle infusion.
Mushroom and Chicken Wild Rice Soup
- Adding mushrooms gives the soup an earthy depth of flavor. Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the other vegetables in the beginning for the best results. You can use cremini, white button, or even wild mushrooms for added flavor.
- Tip: If you love mushrooms, consider using a blend of different types, such as shiitake, oyster, or portobello, to enhance the soup’s complexity.
Extra Veggie Soup
- To make this soup even more nutritious, add a variety of vegetables like spinach, kale, zucchini, or bell peppers. Spinach or kale can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking to wilt, while heartier vegetables like zucchini can be sautéed with the onions, carrots, and celery.
- Tip: Frozen vegetables can also be used and added directly to the soup during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
Lighter Version
- For a lighter take on this recipe, you can substitute the heavy cream with a lower-fat option like evaporated milk, or simply use more chicken broth and skip the cream entirely for a broth-based soup. You can also reduce the amount of butter used for sautéing the vegetables to cut down on fat.
- Tip: If you omit the cream, add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the broth slightly, so the soup still has a rich texture.
Cheesy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
- For a cheesy twist, stir in shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan cheese once the soup is done cooking. This adds a creamy, tangy element to the soup, making it even more comforting.
- Tip: Add the cheese slowly and stir constantly to prevent it from clumping.
What to Serve with Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Pairing your homemade Panera-style Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup with the right sides can elevate the meal, creating a satisfying and well-rounded dining experience. Here are some suggestions for delicious sides that complement the creamy and hearty nature of the soup.
Crusty Bread
- A warm, crusty loaf of bread is the perfect partner for this creamy soup. The bread can be used to soak up the rich broth, adding texture and flavor to every bite.
- Suggestions: Sourdough, French baguette, or artisan multigrain bread.
- Tip: For extra flavor, serve the bread with herbed butter or garlic-infused olive oil for dipping.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- The classic combination of soup and sandwich never disappoints. A gooey, cheesy grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with the creamy chicken and wild rice soup, adding a bit of indulgence.
- Suggestions: Use cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses for the perfect melt.
- Tip: For an elevated twist, add ingredients like caramelized onions, tomatoes, or bacon to your grilled cheese.
Salad
- A fresh salad provides a crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich soup. Choose a light, tangy dressing to balance the creaminess of the soup.
- Suggestions: Caesar salad, mixed greens with vinaigrette, or a spinach salad with berries and nuts.
- Tip: Add croutons or Parmesan cheese to your salad for extra texture.
Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted vegetables make a nutritious and flavorful side dish, adding depth to the meal with their caramelized flavors. The earthy notes of roasted vegetables complement the heartiness of the soup.
- Suggestions: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash.
- Tip: Toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting to enhance their natural sweetness.
Crackers
- For a light, crunchy side, pair the soup with your favorite crackers. They’re great for dipping and provide a different texture without overpowering the soup.
- Suggestions: Butter crackers, multigrain crackers, or seeded crisps.
- Tip: Choose a neutral-flavored cracker to keep the focus on the soup, or opt for something with a bit of seasoning for added flavor.
Garlic Bread or Breadsticks
- Garlic bread or soft, buttery breadsticks are always a hit with creamy soups. The garlicky, buttery flavors work well with the savory notes in the soup.
- Suggestions: Classic garlic bread, cheesy breadsticks, or Parmesan-crusted garlic knots.
- Tip: Serve the breadsticks warm and buttery for the best contrast against the creamy soup.
Cheese Platter
- A simple cheese platter with a variety of cheeses can add richness and variety to your meal. It’s an easy-to-assemble side that complements the soup’s flavors.
- Suggestions: A mix of soft cheeses (like Brie or goat cheese) and harder options (like cheddar or Gruyère).
- Tip: Include some fruit, like apples or grapes, and crackers on the platter for added variety.
Side of Rice
- For a heartier meal, you can serve a side of plain wild rice or a rice pilaf. This adds another layer of texture and flavor while keeping the meal cohesive.
- Suggestions: Wild rice pilaf, brown rice, or even jasmine rice for a mild, fragrant touch.
- Tip: Lightly season the rice with herbs or lemon zest to enhance its flavor without overpowering the soup.
Cornbread
- Sweet and slightly crumbly, cornbread is a wonderful contrast to the savory, creamy soup. It adds a hint of sweetness and a buttery finish to the meal.
- Suggestions: Traditional cornbread, honey butter cornbread, or jalapeño cornbread for a bit of spice.
- Tip: Serve the cornbread warm with a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter.
Fruit Salad
- For a light, refreshing contrast to the rich soup, a simple fruit salad works wonders. The sweetness and acidity of the fruit balance out the creamy texture of the soup.
- Suggestions: A mix of berries, citrus, apples, and grapes tossed in a light honey-lime dressing.
- Tip: Add a few mint leaves for extra freshness.
Pickles or Olives
- For a tangy, salty bite that cuts through the richness of the soup, a small side of pickles or olives is an easy option. They add a burst of flavor that balances the creamy broth.
- Suggestions: Dill pickles, bread-and-butter pickles, or a variety of green and black olives.
- Tip: Pair with crackers or bread for a simple, flavor-packed side.
How to Store and Reheat Panera Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Storing and reheating your Panera-style Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup properly ensures that it stays delicious and fresh, whether you’re enjoying leftovers the next day or meal prepping for the week. Here’s a guide on how to store, freeze, and reheat your soup for the best results.
Refrigerating Leftovers
- After cooking, allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator. Transfer the soup to an airtight container to preserve its freshness.
- How long it lasts: This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
- Tip: If you plan to eat the leftovers in portions, store the soup in individual containers. This makes it easy to grab and reheat only what you need.
Freezing Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
If you have more soup than you can consume within a few days, freezing is an excellent option. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Before freezing: If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to cook the wild rice separately and add it only when serving. Rice tends to absorb liquid and can become mushy when frozen and reheated. Alternatively, freeze the soup without rice and add freshly cooked rice after reheating.
- Packaging: Once the soup has cooled completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. If using bags, lay them flat in the freezer to save space.
- Freezer life: The soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Tip: Label your containers with the date so you can keep track of how long it’s been frozen.
Reheating the Soup
On the Stovetop:
- The stovetop is the best method for reheating larger portions of soup, as it allows you to control the heat and maintain the soup’s creamy texture.
- To reheat, pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened during storage, add a bit of chicken broth or water to thin it out.
- Tip: Stir frequently to prevent the cream from separating or scorching at the bottom of the pot.
In the Microwave:
- For smaller portions, the microwave is a quick and convenient option.
- To reheat, place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent). Heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until the soup is heated through.
- Tip: If the soup becomes too thick, stir in a little extra chicken broth or water after reheating.
Thickening or Thinning the Soup After Reheating
If too thick:
Cream-based soups can thicken as they cool, so don’t worry if your soup looks a bit thicker after storing. You can easily thin it out by adding a splash of chicken broth, milk, or water as you reheat it. Stir well to incorporate the liquid and restore the desired consistency.
If too thin:
If the soup seems too thin after reheating, simmer it on the stovetop for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) to thicken it.
Avoiding Separation
Creamy soups can sometimes separate when stored and reheated, but there are a few ways to prevent this:
- Slow heating: When reheating on the stovetop, heat the soup slowly over medium or low heat, stirring frequently to ensure the cream incorporates smoothly.
- Add cream at the end: If you plan to freeze the soup, you can wait to add the cream until after it’s reheated to avoid curdling or separation.
- Whisking: If you notice any separation, whisk the soup gently to help the ingredients recombine.
Best Practices for Freezing Cream-Based Soups
Use heavy cream instead of milk or half-and-half:
Cream-based soups often freeze better when made with heavy cream because it’s less likely to curdle when reheated. If your recipe calls for milk or half-and-half, you can substitute heavy cream or add the dairy after thawing and reheating.
Reheat slowly:
When reheating a frozen creamy soup, always use gentle heat. Too much heat too quickly can cause the cream to separate.
Don’t freeze with rice:
As mentioned earlier, freezing soups with rice can result in mushy rice upon reheating. If you plan to freeze the soup, cook and store the rice separately or freeze the soup without rice.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Copycat Panera Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Achieving the perfect bowl of Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup requires attention to detail and a few key techniques. Here are some expert tips to ensure your homemade version mirrors the comforting, creamy soup you love from Panera.
Sauté the Aromatics Thoroughly
- Why It Matters: Sautéing onions, carrots, celery, and garlic develops their flavors and adds depth to the soup. This step enhances the overall taste and gives the soup a rich base.
- How to Do It: Cook the vegetables over medium heat until they are softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. This process releases natural sugars and intensifies their flavor.
Use Fresh Herbs and Spices
- Why It Matters: Fresh herbs and spices can elevate the flavor profile of the soup. While dried herbs are effective, fresh herbs add a brighter, more vibrant taste.
- How to Do It: Add fresh thyme or parsley toward the end of cooking for a burst of freshness. Dried herbs like thyme and bay leaves can be added earlier in the cooking process to infuse the soup with flavor.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste
- Why It Matters: The saltiness of chicken broth and cream can vary, so adjusting seasoning is crucial for a well-balanced soup.
- How to Do It: Season the soup in stages—add a bit of salt and pepper during cooking, then taste and adjust at the end. Be cautious with salt, as you can always add more, but it’s difficult to fix an overly salty soup.
Incorporate Cream Gradually
- Why It Matters: Adding cream slowly helps prevent curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- How to Do It: Lower the heat before adding the cream. Stir continuously and avoid boiling the soup after the cream has been added to maintain a smooth consistency.
Control the Soup’s Consistency
- Why It Matters: Achieving the right thickness is key to a satisfying soup. You don’t want it too thick or too thin.
- How to Do It: If the soup is too thick, add a bit of chicken broth or water. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered to reduce the liquid, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water).
Use the Right Type of Rice
- Why It Matters: The texture of the rice can impact the overall mouthfeel of the soup.
- How to Do It: Use wild rice or a wild rice blend, as it adds a chewy texture and nutty flavor. If you prefer a softer texture, you can cook the rice separately and add it to the soup just before serving.
Make the Soup Ahead of Time
- Why It Matters: Like many soups, this recipe often tastes better the next day after the flavors have melded together.
- How to Do It: Prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving, and adjust seasoning as needed.
Customize to Your Taste
- Why It Matters: Personalizing the recipe allows you to cater the soup to your preferences and dietary needs.
- How to Do It: Feel free to add extra vegetables, adjust the seasoning, or incorporate additional herbs and spices based on your taste. For a richer flavor, you can even add a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Avoid Overcooking the Chicken
- Why It Matters: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, detracting from the soup’s overall texture.
- How to Do It: Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once it’s cooked through, shred or chop it and add it back to the soup. Be careful not to cook it too long in the soup to prevent it from becoming dry.
Use a High-Quality Broth
- Why It Matters: The broth is the foundation of the soup, and its quality directly impacts the flavor.
- How to Do It: Use homemade chicken broth or a high-quality store-bought option. For a richer flavor, consider simmering the broth with additional herbs and vegetables before using it in the soup.
Add Texture with Toppings
- Why It Matters: Toppings can enhance the visual appeal and add texture to the soup.
- How to Do It: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of grated cheese, or crispy fried onions. These additions provide a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.
Consider Dietary Substitutions
- Why It Matters: Adapting the recipe to accommodate dietary restrictions ensures everyone can enjoy the soup.
- How to Do It: Substitute dairy-free cream alternatives for a vegan version, use gluten-free flour or thickeners for a gluten-free option, and adjust seasonings to suit dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Panera Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Panera’s Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup has earned its place as a favorite comfort food, and it’s easy to see why. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this creamy, hearty soup and why it deserves a regular spot on your menu.
Rich, Creamy Texture
- What to Expect: This soup offers a velvety, smooth texture that’s incredibly satisfying. The combination of heavy cream and chicken broth creates a luscious base that coats each spoonful.
- Why It’s Great: The creamy consistency makes the soup feel indulgent and comforting, perfect for cozy meals on cold days or when you need a little extra warmth.
Hearty and Filling
- What to Expect: With chunks of tender chicken, chewy wild rice, and a variety of vegetables, this soup is both hearty and nutritious. It’s a complete meal in a bowl that’s sure to keep you full and satisfied.
- Why It’s Great: The substantial ingredients ensure that the soup is not just a light appetizer but a fulfilling meal on its own. It’s ideal for lunch or dinner, especially when you want something that will keep you feeling content for hours.
Balanced Flavors
- What to Expect: The soup strikes a perfect balance between savory chicken, earthy wild rice, and a hint of herbs and spices. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of flavors that’s rich but not overwhelming.
- Why It’s Great: The well-balanced flavors make this soup a crowd-pleaser. It’s complex enough to be interesting but familiar enough to appeal to a wide range of taste preferences.
Versatility
- What to Expect: This soup is incredibly versatile. You can customize it to fit dietary preferences, add extra vegetables, or adjust the seasoning to suit your tastes.
- Why It’s Great: Whether you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions or just looking to mix things up, the soup’s flexibility allows you to adapt it to various needs and preferences.
Nutrient-Rich
- What to Expect: Loaded with chicken, wild rice, and vegetables, this soup provides a range of nutrients including protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
- Why It’s Great: It’s not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet. The combination of ingredients helps to support overall health while satisfying your taste buds.
Convenient and Easy to Make
- What to Expect: Despite its rich flavor, this soup is relatively simple to prepare. With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can have a delicious homemade soup ready in no time.
- Why It’s Great: The ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping. You’ll get a gourmet-quality meal with minimal fuss and effort.
Perfect for Leftovers
- What to Expect: The soup holds up well in the fridge and freezer, making it a great option for preparing ahead of time. Leftovers taste even better as the flavors meld together.
- Why It’s Great: The ability to make and store the soup for future meals adds to its convenience and appeal. You can enjoy the comforting taste of homemade soup even on days when you don’t feel like cooking.
Ideal for Any Occasion
- What to Expect: Whether you’re serving it at a casual family dinner, a holiday gathering, or as part of a larger menu, this soup fits the bill.
- Why It’s Great: Its versatility makes it suitable for a variety of occasions. You can serve it as a cozy meal on a cold night or as an elegant starter at a special event.
Satisfies All Ages
- What to Expect: The mild flavors and creamy texture appeal to both adults and children, making it a family-friendly dish.
- Why It’s Great: It’s a great way to please picky eaters and get everyone to enjoy a wholesome meal together.
A Taste of Panera at Home
- What to Expect: This copycat recipe brings the beloved flavors of Panera’s soup right into your kitchen, allowing you to recreate a favorite restaurant dish at home.
- Why It’s Great: Enjoying the familiar taste of Panera’s Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup without having to go out adds a touch of convenience and personal satisfaction.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Panera’s Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup offers a delightful blend of creamy texture and hearty ingredients that make it a beloved comfort food. By following the recipe and exploring the various adaptations, you can tailor the soup to suit your dietary needs, flavor preferences, and convenience. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner, a special occasion, or meal prepping for the week, this versatile soup delivers both satisfaction and flavor. With tips for perfecting the dish and ideas for creative variations, you’re well-equipped to recreate this Panera favorite right in your own kitchen. Enjoy every comforting bowl of this delicious soup and the warmth it brings to your table.
FAQS
Panera Cream Of Chicken And Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup carrots sliced
- 1 cup celery chopped
- 1 cup wild rice uncooked
- 1 cup cooked chicken shredded or diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Wild Rice: Cook the wild rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the flour is lightly browned.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Gradually add the chicken broth to the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the thyme, rosemary, and sage. Bring to a simmer.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked wild rice and shredded chicken to the pot. Stir well.
- Finish the Soup: Pour in the half-and-half (or milk) and continue to cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through and thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy!