This tasty chicken noodle soup is just like the one from Panera, but made right at home! It’s packed with tender chicken, fluffy noodles, and colorful veggies in a yummy broth.
You’ll love how warm and comforting it is, perfect for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up. I like to make a big pot and enjoy leftovers for lunch—so comforting and easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing because it has a nice flavor. If you’re out, you can use vegetable or canola oil instead—just keep it light.
Chicken Broth: I prefer low-sodium broth to control the salt level. You can also use homemade broth if you have some on hand or swap it for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian.
Chicken: For the chicken, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully to save time. If you have leftover cooked chicken, that’s perfect too! Just make sure it’s shredded small.
Egg Noodles: While egg noodles give a comforting texture, you can use whole wheat pasta, or even gluten-free pasta for a healthier or dietary option.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary add great flavor, but if you don’t have them, Italian seasoning can also work well. Fresh herbs will shine too!
How Do I Ensure My Vegetables Are Perfectly Tender?
Getting those vegetables just right is key to a delicious soup! Here’s how to do it:
- Start by sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil. This technique softens them while developing flavor.
- Keep an eye on them—5-7 minutes is usually enough until they are tender but not mushy.
- Don’t rush adding the garlic; just one minute at the end will keep its wonderful flavor strong!
Easy Copycat Panera Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles (medium or wide)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This warming and hearty soup will take you about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes total to cook. It’s quick to whip up, making it a perfect weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add in the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, or until the veggies are softened and the onion is translucent. This is where the flavor starts to build!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, mix in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen smells amazing!
3. Create the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth, and toss in the dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, lower the heat a bit and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Cook the Chicken and Noodles:
Stir in the shredded chicken and egg noodles. Cook everything together for about 7-8 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked through. Give it a good stir occasionally to keep the noodles from sticking.
5. Final Touches:
Once everything is cooked, take out the bay leaf. Taste the soup and add a little extra salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your homemade chicken noodle soup just like Panera’s!
FAQ for Easy Copycat Panera Chicken Noodle Soup
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds wonderful flavor. Just shred or chop it up and add it during the last few minutes of cooking to warm it through.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add more vegetables or even some beans for added protein.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles as they can become mushy. Just add freshly cooked noodles when reheating!
What Else Can I Add to the Soup for Extra Flavor?
You can customize this soup by adding ingredients like fresh spinach, peas, or corn for more color and nutrition. A splash of lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the flavors beautifully!