Print

Panera Chicken & Wild Rice Soup Recipe – Creamy Copycat Comfort Food

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Panera Chicken & Wild Rice Soup is a rich and creamy copycat recipe featuring tender chicken, hearty wild rice, vegetables, chicken broth, and cream. This comforting homemade soup is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, and cozy cold-weather meals.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Soup

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup wild rice blend
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the wild rice blend according to package directions and set aside.
  2. Cook chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred or dice.
  3. Melt butter in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat.
  4. Add carrots, celery, onions, and mushrooms if using.
  5. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until softened.
  6. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  7. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir continuously to form a roux.
  8. Slowly whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
  9. Add thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  10. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
  11. Add cooked chicken and wild rice.
  12. Stir in milk and heavy cream.
  13. Simmer gently for 10 minutes without boiling.
  14. Add Parmesan cheese if desired.
  15. Taste and adjust seasonings.
  16. Serve hot with bread or crackers.

Notes

  • Cook the rice separately for the best texture.
  • Rotisserie chicken can be substituted for convenience.
  • Do not boil after adding dairy ingredients.
  • Use high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor.
  • Add extra broth if the soup becomes too thick.
  • Fresh herbs can replace dried herbs.
  • Mushrooms add extra depth of flavor.
  • Store leftovers in airtight containers.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat slowly over low heat.
  • The soup often tastes better the next day.
  • Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
  • Perfect for meal prep lunches.
  • Adjust cream quantity to desired richness.
  • Taste and season before serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipeshots.com/panera-chicken-wild-rice-soup/