introduction

This soup tastes warm and bright. It uses simple items and cooks fast. You can make it at home and feel good. See a similar recipe post for more ideas.

why make this recipe

You will make this soup because it fills the house with good smells. It feeds a group and keeps well. The soup uses plain ingredients that you can find in any shop. For a step by step guide, check an easy guide.

how to make Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

You cook the veg first. Then you add the broth and rice. You add the cream last. This keeps the cream smooth. A creamy method can help if you like a rich soup.

Ingredients :

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup wild rice
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups half-and-half or cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

You can read more on rice and broth choices in this ingredient guide.

Directions :

In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
Add chicken broth, cooked chicken, wild rice, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until rice is tender.
Stir in half-and-half or cream and heat through.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

how to serve Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Serve the soup hot in deep bowls. Add a dash of fresh pepper. Put green salad or crusty bread on the side. For more serve ideas see this serve ideas.

how to store Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Let the soup cool to room temp. Store in a closed container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge. Reheat on low heat and stir so the cream stays smooth.

tips to make Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Use cooked chicken from a roast or rotisserie.
Rinse the wild rice before you cook.
Cook the rice until it feels soft but not mushy.
Add cream at the end and do not boil after you add it.
Taste and add salt at the end.

variation (if any)

Use half milk and half cream for a lighter soup.
Add mushrooms for a deep flavor.
Stir in cooked bacon for a smoky note.
Swap thyme for rosemary if you like.

FAQs

Q: Can I use brown rice or white rice instead of wild rice?
A: Yes. Brown rice will take a bit less time. White rice cooks faster. Watch the rice so it does not get mushy.

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Add all items except cream. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. Stir in cream at the end and heat through.

Q: Can I use milk instead of half-and-half?
A: Yes, but the soup will be thinner. Use cream for a rich taste.

Q: How do I keep the rice from soaking up the broth overnight?
A: Store soup separate from rice, or add a little extra broth when you reheat.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Use vegetable broth and omit chicken. Add cooked beans or tofu for protein.

Conclusion

If you want a guide that matches a popular cafe taste, see this Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup – Gal on a Mission.

Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup