This comforting Chicken Noodle Soup is just like the one from Panera! Packed with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and fresh veggies, it warms up any day.
Whenever I make this soup, I feel like a kitchen superhero! 🦸‍♂️ It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you’re feeling under the weather. Trust me, it’s a big hug in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor base. If you’re out of it, you can use canola oil or butter instead. Both will work well without changing the taste too much.
Onion: A medium onion is perfect for this soup. However, if you don’t have one, shallots or leeks can be good substitutes, adding a slight sweetness.
Celery and Carrots: These veggies bring crunch and flavor. You can replace celery with bell peppers or even green beans if you prefer. For carrots, sweet potatoes or parsnips also make a great swap.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic touch. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used but start with less, about 1/4 teaspoon, as it’s more concentrated.
Chicken Broth: Homemade is awesome, but store-bought works just fine too. If you prefer a vegetarian version, vegetable broth is a great alternative.
Cooked Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you have leftover grilled or baked chicken, that’s a great option too!
Egg Noodles: While egg noodles are traditional, feel free to swap them with any pasta you have on hand, like fusilli or penne. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
How do I make sure my veggies are perfectly sautéed?
SautĂ©ing veggies right is crucial to build the soup’s flavor. Start by heating the olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Once hot, add your onion, celery, and carrots.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft but not brown. This will keep them flavorful and tender.
- Add minced garlic and cook for just 1 more minute; you want it fragrant but not burnt.
This first step sets the foundation for your soup, so don’t rush it! Enjoy those rich flavors coming together.
How to Make CopyCat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken noodle soup will take about 10 minutes to prep, plus another 30 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at approximately 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced celery, and sliced carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are nice and tender. This will bring out their flavors!
2. Add the Garlic:
Now, add the minced garlic to the pot and sautĂ© for an additional minute. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to smell fragrant and delicious!
3. Pour in the Broth:
Carefully pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. This is where the soup begins to come together!
4. Combine Chicken and Seasonings:
Once the broth is bubbling, add in the shredded chicken along with the dried thyme, dried parsley, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to make sure all the ingredients are mixed together.
5. Let It Simmer:
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let the soup cook for about 15 minutes. This lets all those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully.
6. Cook the Egg Noodles:
Next, add the egg noodles to the pot. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, until they are al dente. Stir occasionally so they don’t stick!
7. Adjust the Seasoning:
After the noodles are cooked, taste your soup. You can add more salt or pepper if you’d like to enhance the flavor. Make it just right for your taste!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, and if you’d like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a lovely presentation. Enjoy your homemade copycat Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup!
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can use other types like rotini, penne, or even gluten-free noodles. Just cook them according to package instructions and add them to the soup in the final steps. Keep an eye on the cooking time as some noodles may take longer than others!
How Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Great idea! You can prepare the soup and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to cook the noodles separately and add them just before serving, as they can become soggy if left in the soup for too long.
What Should I Do with Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the noodles soak up too much broth during storage, just add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up when reheating.
Can I Customize the Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand. Peas, corn, or green beans would be delicious additions. Just be mindful of cooking times – add quicker-cooking veggies later in the process to keep them tender and bright!
