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Panera Chicken & Wild Rice Soup – Easy Creamy Copycat Recipe

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Panera Chicken & Wild Rice Soup is a creamy copycat soup recipe featuring tender chicken, wild rice, vegetables, herbs, and a rich homemade broth. Perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, and comforting family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 cup wild rice blend
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onions, carrots, and celery and sauté until softened.
  3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in chicken broth.
  5. Add wild rice, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  6. Bring to a simmer and cook until rice becomes tender.
  7. Stir in shredded chicken.
  8. In a separate saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour.
  9. Cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
  10. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth.
  11. Cook until slightly thickened.
  12. Add cream mixture to soup.
  13. Simmer for 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.
  14. Adjust seasoning and serve warm.

Notes

  • Rotisserie chicken saves preparation time.
  • Use a wild rice blend for authentic flavor and texture.
  • Add extra broth if soup thickens too much.
  • Do not boil after adding dairy products.
  • Store refrigerated for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently over low heat.
  • Fresh thyme and parsley enhance flavor.
  • Perfect for meal prep lunches and dinners.
  • Serve with crusty bread or rolls.
  • Can be adapted for slow cooker or Instant Pot cooking.
  • Adjust cream levels for desired richness.

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