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Creamy Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Panera chicken and wild rice soup - featured image
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A quick and easy comfort food recipe that mimics the popular Panera soup. This creamy, hearty dish uses simple pantry staples and takes less than 30 minutes of active prep time to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1 cup uncooked wild rice blend
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 stalks celery, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried sage leaves
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the wild rice blend according to package instructions (approx. 45-60 minutes), drain excess water, and set aside.
  2. Heat butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and onions are translucent.
  3. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried sage to the pot. Stir constantly for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
  5. Stir in the cooked wild rice and shredded chicken. If using raw chicken, add it now and simmer for 10-15 minutes until cooked through.
  6. Whisk cornstarch and cold water together until smooth. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering soup while stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
  7. Remove pot from heat and stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best texture, cook rice separately and add to soup just before serving to prevent mushiness. If making ahead, store rice separately. The soup will thicken as it cools; add broth when reheating. Can be made dairy-free by substituting cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: Panera copycat, chicken and wild rice soup, comfort food, easy soup, creamy soup, weeknight dinner, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://twirltaste.com/creamy-copycat-panera-chicken-and-wild-rice-soup-15-minute-easy-recipe/