Bowl of delicious copycat Panera Chicken & Wild Rice Soup with garnishes.

Why Make This Recipe

Copycat Panera Chicken & Wild Rice Soup is a cozy dish that brings comfort to the table. It combines tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and colorful vegetables in a creamy broth. Making this soup at home not only saves you a trip to the restaurant but also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Plus, it’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.

How to Make Copycat Panera Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup wild rice blend, cooked
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups milk or cream
1/4 cup flour
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook until softened.
Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Gradually add chicken broth, whisking to avoid lumps.
Add cooked chicken, wild rice, thyme, salt, and pepper; simmer for 20 minutes.
Stir in milk or cream and heat through.
Serve warm.

How to Serve Copycat Panera Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Serve this soup in bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for garnish. It pairs nicely with crusty bread or a warm roll on the side. For an extra touch, you can add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese right before serving.

How to Store Copycat Panera Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

To store the soup, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove over low heat until heated through.

Tips to Make Copycat Panera Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing garlic along with the onions, carrots, and celery.
If you prefer a thicker soup, add a bit more flour or reduce the amount of broth.
Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to boost nutrition and flavor.

Variation

You can use leftover turkey instead of chicken for a delightful twist. Additionally, substitute half of the milk with sour cream for a tangy taste. For a lighter version, swap cream for low-fat milk.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use canned chicken if you’re short on time. Just make sure to drain and rinse it first.

What type of wild rice blend should I use?
You can use any wild rice blend available at your grocery store. The blend adds wonderful texture and flavor to the soup.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients except for the milk or cream and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the milk or cream just before serving.