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Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe - Easy Meal Recipe

Chicken noodle soup has a way of making everything better. It’s a universal comfort food that evokes memories of childhood and family gatherings.
 I remember my grandmother stirring a big pot of her famous chicken soup, filling the kitchen with a smell that promised warmth and nourishment. She had her secrets, but what I learned from her is that the right balance of ingredients transforms a simple dish into something extraordinary.
Today, I’m focusing on Panera Bread's version of chicken noodle soup. It’s not just any soup; this one is rich, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients. 
Plus, I'm going to reveal why making your own version at home can be just as satisfying, if not more so. Let’s dive into the delightful world of chicken noodle soup.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups egg noodles
  • 4 cups rich chicken stock
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts whole or halved
  • 4 fresh carrots peeled and chopped into bite-sized rounds
  • 2 crisp celery stalks finely diced
  • 1/2 a medium onion finely chopped
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon garlic seasoning salt
  • 3/4 tablespoon fine sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Broth
  1. In a large pot, combine the chicken stock and water. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. If you're using raw chicken, add the chicken breasts directly into this pot. Let them simmer slowly so they absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
  1. Once the chicken is just about cooked through, add in your finely chopped onion, diced celery, and chopped carrots. Stir this mix well. The aroma at this point will start to fill your kitchen – trust me, it’s wonderful.
Step 3: Season Your Soup
  1. Now it’s time to season. Toss in the bay leaf, thyme, garlic seasoning salt, fine sea salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together. This step is vital; the seasoning creates that unforgettable taste.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
  1. After letting your soup bubble for about 10-15 minutes, add the egg noodles. Keep the heat low and let them cook according to package instructions. They should become tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
  1. When the chicken breasts are fully cooked, take them out and shred them with two forks. Return the chicken back to the pot. Don't forget to remove the bay leaf — it’s not food, just flavor.
Step 6: Finish with Lemon
  1. Lastly, add a splash of lemon juice. It brightens the whole soup. Stir it in, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Notes

  • Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more chicken stock or water.
  • Store Properly: Allow it to cool before transferring to airtight containers. It can last several days in the fridge.
  • Cook the Noodles Separately: If you prefer, cook noodles separately to keep them from soaking up broth over time.
  • Make Ahead: This soup freezes well. Make a batch and store for those days when you crave comfort.
  • Serve Warm: For the best flavor experience, serve the soup hot!