Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup – Experience the indulgence of the velvety and luscious flavors found in the Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup. It’s a combination of tender chicken, wild rice, and a comforting broth that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart. This soup boasts vegetables and an alluring blend of herbs and spices making it an absolute must-try for any food enthusiast.

this Recipe

I can still vividly recall the first time I prepared this soup. It was a chilly evening. I had a longing, for something comforting. Inspired by my visit, to Panera I decided to recreate their Chicken and Wild Rice Soup. To my delight not only did I adore it but my husband and little one couldn’t get enough! It swiftly became our family dish bringing back memories with every serving.

What makes this Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup truly comforting?

What sets this Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup apart? Firstly it captures the essence of Panera’s soup experience right in your own home. Furthermore, each spoonful guarantees the goodness derived from ingredients without any additives or preservatives. Its versatility shines through well; whether you desire a main course or a delightful appetizer this soup fits the bill flawlessly.

What You Need To Make This Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe?

Carrots, Celery, and Onions: Carrots, celery and onions are the ingredients, for creating a great soup. It’s important to finely chop them so that their flavors are evenly distributed, providing an experience with every spoonful.

Chicken: For our soup, we’ll be using boneless and skinless chicken breasts which give it chunky bites. Remember, the quality of the chicken you choose will directly impact the taste so opt for the best you can find!

Rice a Roni: To add a touch to our soup we’ll be using Rice a Roni. It’s not just any rice. It has a wild texture along with a seasoning packet that takes our soup from good to spectacular.

Olive Oil & Minced Garlic: Let’s not forget about the heroes of our dish; olive oil and minced garlic. These ingredients add depth and aromatic layers that create a base from the first whiff.

Chicken Stock: The soul of our soup comes from the chicken stock. Make sure to select a high-quality stock that adds that savory note we’re looking for.

Heavy Cream & Milk: To achieve a velvety texture, in our soup we’ll be adding heavy cream and milk. Their richness beautifully balances out the nature of the rice.

Spices: The pepper, oregano and bay leaf may appear basic. They play a role in adding delicate undertones that transform every bite into a harmonious blend of flavors.

Spring onions: Beyond being decoration they provide a crunchy contrast elevating each mouthful with an intriguing and multi-dimensional experience.

Steps To Make Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup:

Step 1: Start by heating up your trusty stock pot over medium heat. Pour in that olive oil and let those carrots, onions, and celery dance and sauté. You’ll know they’re doing their magic when those onions look tender, about 10 sweet minutes.

Step 2: Now, let’s stir in the aromatic garlic, comforting chicken stock, water, 1 cup of milk, and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Ah, the symphony of flavors begins!

Step 3: Here comes the seasoning trio – pepper, oregano, and bay leaf. Don’t forget the star: the chicken. Let them all mingle and simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining milk, cream, and flour until it’s velvety smooth. This mix is going to give our soup that rich, creamy texture.

Step 5: Pour this mixture into the pot and feel the transformation.

Step 6: Time for the wild card – add that box of Rice a Roni along with its seasoning packet. Another 20 minutes of simmering and you’re almost at the finish line.

Step 7: Season with salt and pepper, sprinkle those fresh scallions, and there you have it – a bowl of pure comfort.

Tip:

When you’re cooking the Rice a Roni in the soup make sure to keep an eye on the liquid levels. Sometimes the rice can soak up more liquid than you expect. If you notice the soup getting thicker than desired go ahead. Add an extra chicken stock or water. This way you’ll maintain that texture while ensuring that the rice is cooked perfectly. Remember everyone has their preference, for how thick they like their soup so adjust it to suit your taste and that of your loved ones!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different brand of wild rice?

Sure you can use a different brand of rice. However, keep in mind that Rice a Roni adds a flavor to this recipe. If you choose to use another brand make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

Can this soup be frozen?

Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing it. Remember to leave some room at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

If stored in an airtight container this soup will remain fresh for 3 to 4 days when refrigerated.

5 from 1 vote

Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Indulge, in the Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, a creation that beautifully combines tender chicken and the rustic allure of wild rice. With every spoonful you'll experience a blend of flavors from the broth infused with aromatic herbs to the finely diced vegetables that provide texture and richness. This isn't any soup; it's a heartwarming voyage that brings back memories of evenings and treasured moments shared around the dining table.

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Ingredients

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• ▢ 1 small carrot finely diced
• ▢ 1 stalk celery finely diced
• ▢ 1 large white onion finely diced
• ▢ 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ▢ 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic
• ▢ 2 c chicken stock
• ▢ 1 c heavy cream divided
• ▢ 2 c water
• ▢ 2 c whole milk divided
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• ▢ 1 dried bay leaf
• ▢ 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts cooked and shredded
• ▢ 1/2 c all-purpose flour
• ▢ 1 box 4.3 ounces of Rice a Roni Long Grain and Wild Rice + seasoning packet
• ▢ Salt and pepper to taste
• ▢ Scallions for garnish

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Instructions

 

1. In a pot heat some olive oil, over medium heat. Sauté the carrot, celery and onion until the onions become tender.
2. Next add in the garlic, chicken stock, water, 1 cup of milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Give everything a stir.
3. Now it's time to introduce the pepper oregano, bay leaf and shredded chicken. Let it all simmer for 15 minutes.
4. In a bowl mix together the remaining milk, cream and flour until you get a smooth mixture. Add this mixture to the pot.
5. Incorporate the Rice a Roni along with its seasoning packet into the pot. Allow it to simmer for another 20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked.
6. Finally season, with salt and pepper according to your taste preference. To add some freshness and color to your dish garnish it with some chopped scallions before serving it warm.

Notes

For those looking to savor the comfort of our Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup without the gluten, fret not! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch as a thickener. Make sure to whisk it well with cold milk to prevent lumps. Additionally, be cautious while choosing the wild rice mix—some may contain gluten or be processed in facilities with gluten products. Opt for a certified gluten-free brand. The result? A bowl filled with the same rich, comforting flavors, but tailored to suit your gluten-free lifestyle.

Audrey

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Bitty

I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!

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