Print

Cozy Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup - featured image
Print Recipe

A comforting, creamy chicken and wild rice soup that mimics the popular restaurant version. This easy-to-make dish uses simple ingredients and wholesome techniques to create a rich, satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 package wild rice mix (approx. 1 cup dry)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prep the vegetables by washing, peeling, and dicing the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic.
  2. Cook the wild rice mix according to package instructions until tender but chewy. Set aside.
  3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
  4. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the chicken breasts and chicken broth to the pot. Ensure chicken is submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
  6. Remove chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set aside.
  7. Return the shredded chicken to the pot along with the cooked wild rice and dried thyme. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  8. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes without boiling.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. If the soup is too thick after storing, add more broth when reheating. This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Ensure your rice mix and broth are certified gluten-free if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: Panera copycat, chicken and wild rice soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, winter soup, healthy soup, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://lindabake.com/cozy-copycat-panera-chicken-and-wild-rice-soup-best-easy-recipe/