Warm up your kitchen and your soul with this homemade version of Panera Bread’s beloved creamy chicken wild rice soup. It’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make at home. Let’s dive into the recipe that brings the comfort of Panera right to your dining table.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of wild rice and chicken provides a satisfying texture and protein-packed meal.
- A creamy base made with a blend of butter, flour, and half-and-half ensures a rich and velvety soup.
- Herbs and vegetables add depth of flavor, making each spoonful a delight.
- It’s a versatile recipe that allows for easy substitutions based on dietary preferences or what’s in your pantry.
- Perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Prepare the Wild Rice
Start by cooking the wild rice according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 45 minutes. While the rice is cooking, you can prep the other ingredients. Tip: Cooking the rice separately ensures it doesn’t absorb all the soup’s liquid and become too soft.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion, sautéing until they’re soft and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This builds a flavor base for the soup.
Create the Creamy Base
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
Combine All Ingredients
Add the cooked wild rice, shredded chicken, half-and-half, thyme, and rosemary to the pot. Stir well to combine. Let the soup simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Tip: If the soup is too thick, you can thin it with a little more chicken broth.
Season and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Tip: Letting the soup sit for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to deepen even more.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. To make the soup gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative. For a lighter version, replace half-and-half with whole milk or a milk alternative. Don’t skip sautéing the vegetables; this step adds significant flavor to the soup.
Recipe Variations
- Add mushrooms for an earthy flavor and extra umami.
- Swap the chicken for turkey, especially great after Thanksgiving.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth.
- Add a splash of white wine to the vegetables for a sophisticated twist.
- Include a handful of spinach or kale for added greens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for wild rice, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary. Brown rice tends to be softer, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent it from becoming mushy in the soup.
How can I store leftovers?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little broth if the soup has thickened too much.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Summary
This Panera Bread creamy chicken wild rice soup recipe is a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup in no time.
