Are you a fan of the creamy and comforting flavors of Panera’s cream of chicken wild rice soup? Do you love the idea of being able to recreate this delicious soup right in your own kitchen? Look no further than this copycat recipe for Panera Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup!

This easy-to-follow recipe captures all the rich and cozy flavors of the original, allowing you to enjoy a homemade version of this soup anytime. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to indulge in a bowl of creamy chicken wild rice soup without ever leaving your home.

Key Takeaways:

• Create a homemade version of Panera’s cream of chicken wild rice soup
• Easy-to-follow recipe with simple ingredients
• Learn how to properly prepare leeks, cook the chicken and rice, and make a creamy base
• Add cooked chicken and rice to the creamy base and simmer to meld flavors
• Customize your copycat recipe with ingredient substitutions, storage, and reheating tips

Ingredients for Cream of Chicken Wild Rice Soup Panera

Get ready to recreate the delicious Panera Cream of Chicken Wild Rice Soup in your own kitchen! Below are the easy-to-find ingredients you will need:

Ingredients	Amount
Butter	5 tbsp
Leeks, sliced	2 cups
Carrots, chopped	1/2 cup
Celery, chopped	1/2 cup
All-purpose flour	1/2 cup
Heavy cream	1 cup
Chicken broth	6 cups
Chicken breasts, cooked and shredded	2 cups
Wild rice blend, cooked	1 cup
Dried thyme	1 tsp
Salt and pepper	To taste

Now that you have all of the necessary ingredients, you’re ready to move onto the next section where you’ll find step-by-step instructions on how to make this delicious copycat soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cream of Chicken Wild Rice Soup Panera

Recreate the comforting flavors of Panera’s Cream of Chicken Wild Rice Soup with this easy copycat recipe. Follow the simple steps below to whip up a batch of creamy soup in no time.

Ingredients

Ingredients	Amount
Butter	½ cup
Chopped Onion	1
All-Purpose Flour	½ cup
Chicken Broth	4 cups
Heavy Cream	2 cups
Cooked Wild Rice	2 cups
Cooked Chicken Breast, shredded	2 cups
Sliced Leeks, white and light green parts only	1 cup
Salt and Pepper	To taste

Note: To make this recipe even easier, you can use pre-cooked chicken and packaged cooked wild rice.

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and leeks to the pot, and sauté until they soften.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the flour starts to brown.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Add the cooked wild rice and shredded chicken to the pot.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Pour in the heavy cream and season to taste with salt and pepper.
8. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to thicken the soup.
9. Remove from heat and serve hot.

That’s it! This easy and creamy Panera copycat soup recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with your favorite crusty bread or in a bread bowl for an extra-special touch.

Preparing the Leeks for Cream of Chicken Wild Rice Soup Panera

If you want to recreate the creamy and delicious flavors of Panera’s Cream of Chicken Wild Rice Soup, it’s essential to properly prepare the leeks. Follow these easy steps to learn how:

1. Cut off the root: Trim the root and the tough dark green leaves off of the leek, leaving the tender white and light green portion.
2. Cut in half: Slice the leek in half lengthwise, then rinse under cold water to remove any dirt or debris trapped between the layers.
3. Chop into pieces: Slice the leek into thin half-moon pieces, about 1/4 inch thick, making sure to separate the layers so they cook evenly in the soup.

Now that your leeks are prepped and ready, you can easily add them to the soup to create that signature creamy flavor and texture.

Cooking the Chicken and Rice for Cream of Chicken Wild Rice Soup Panera

Now that you have prepared the leeks, it’s time to move on to cooking the chicken and rice for your copycat Panera soup. Follow these simple steps for tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice.

1. Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool.
5. Add 2 cups of water and 2 cups of chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Add 1 cup of uncooked wild rice to the pot and return to a boil.
7. Reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer until tender, about 30-40 minutes.
8. Once the rice is cooked, use two forks to shred the cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces.

With the chicken and rice cooked, you’re one step closer to enjoying a delicious bowl of creamy chicken wild rice soup, just like Panera’s.

Making the Creamy Base for Cream of Chicken Wild Rice Soup Panera

Now it’s time to create the velvety smooth base that sets Panera’s creamy chicken wild rice soup apart. Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect creamy texture:

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add flour and whisk until a paste forms.
3. Slowly add chicken broth while whisking continuously, until the mixture is smooth.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add heavy cream and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

You can use this creamy base for many other soups as well, so make sure to keep this recipe handy.

You’ll find that this step is the key to creating the perfect copycat Panera soup in the comfort of your own kitchen. With just a few easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a deliciously creamy base that will take your soup to the next level.

Next up: Adding the chicken and rice to complete your copycat Panera creamy chicken wild rice soup.

Adding the Chicken and Rice to Cream of Chicken Wild Rice Soup Panera

Now that your creamy base is ready, it’s time to add in the cooked chicken and rice. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken pieces to the soup pot along with the cooked rice. Mix well to ensure that the chicken and rice are fully coated with the creamy sauce.

If the soup appears too thick, you can add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until the flavors have fully melded together.

As the soup simmers, it’s important to continue stirring occasionally to prevent the rice and chicken from settling and sticking to the bottom of the pot. This will also ensure an evenly distributed flavor throughout the soup.

Once the soup has simmered to perfection, it’s time to do a final taste test and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Add more salt or pepper if needed, or a pinch of thyme for extra flavor.

Now that your Panera inspired Cream of Chicken Wild Rice Soup is ready, ladle it into your favorite soup bowls and serve hot. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley and cracked black pepper over the top for an extra touch of flavor.

Simmering and Seasoning Cream of Chicken Wild Rice Soup Panera

After adding the chicken and rice to the creamy base, it’s time to simmer your copycat Panera soup. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and delicious soup that’s perfect for any cozy night in.

Simmer the soup on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This will ensure that the flavors come together and create a velvety smooth texture that will keep you coming back for more.

Once the soup has finished simmering, it’s time to season it to perfection. Add salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to add other herbs or spices that you love. For a little extra kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Remember to taste as you go, adding more seasoning if needed. The beauty of this copycat recipe is that you can customize it to your taste preferences, ensuring a delicious and satisfying bowl of soup every time.

Serving Cream of Chicken Wild Rice Soup Panera

Now that you’ve successfully recreated the creamy chicken wild rice soup from Panera, it’s time to serve it up and enjoy! Here are some tips on how to elevate your dish:

• Transfer the soup to a beautiful serving bowl and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for an extra pop of color and flavor.
• Pair your soup with a crusty baguette or a warm grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.
• If you’re looking to recreate the full Panera experience, serve your soup in a bread bowl for a fun and tasty twist.
• If you’re in the mood for takeout, pack the soup in a leak-proof container and bring it to work or on a picnic for a cozy and comforting meal on the go.

Whichever way you choose to serve it, this homemade Panera chicken wild rice soup is sure to satisfy your cravings for a warm and cozy dish.

Tips and Variations for Cream of Chicken Wild Rice Soup Panera

Now that you have mastered the easy and creamy Panera copycat recipe for the Cream of Chicken Wild Rice Soup, it’s time to get creative with some variations and additional tips. Here are some ideas to help you customize your homemade soup to your liking:

1. Ingredient Substitutions

If you or your family have any dietary restrictions or preferences, feel free to substitute some ingredients in the recipe. For example, you can use almond milk or coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the soup. You can also add some veggies like carrots, celery, or mushrooms to boost the nutrition and flavor of the soup.

2. Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftovers from the soup, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat the soup, you can use a microwave or a stovetop pot. Make sure to stir the soup and add a splash of water or milk to maintain the creamy consistency.

3. Garnishes and Sides

To elevate the presentation and taste of your soup, you can add some optional garnishes on top. Some popular choices include chopped parsley, croutons, shredded cheese, or bacon bits. You can also pair the soup with some crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad for a complete meal.

4. Experiment with Spices

If you like your soup with a bit more kick or spice, you can experiment with some seasoning blends or herbs. For example, you can add some cayenne pepper, paprika, or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist. You can also add some thyme, rosemary, or sage for a herbal note.

With these tips and variations, you can make the Panera Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup copycat recipe your own and enjoy it in different ways. Bon Appetit!

Conclusion

By following this Panera Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup copycat recipe, you can indulge in the comforting flavors of Panera right from your own kitchen. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you’ll be able to enjoy a cozy, homemade bowl of creamy chicken wild rice soup anytime you want.

Tips for Future Soup-Making Endeavors

If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different ingredient substitutions. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein. You can also add extra veggies or spices to tailor the recipe to your taste.

When storing leftovers, be sure to transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. The soup will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply transfer the soup to a pot and warm over low heat, stirring frequently.

Enjoy the Panera Experience at Home

Thanks for following along with this recipe! We hope that you enjoy your homemade Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup as much as you would at Panera. Takeout orders aren’t necessary when you can create the same delicious dish right in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!