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The comfort of a warm bowl of soup can turn an ordinary meal into a cozy experience, especially as the leaves change and the chill of fall settles in. There’s something uniquely comforting about a creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup that hits the spot, and with this Copycat recipe, you can recreate that beloved café experience right in your own kitchen. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a gathering with friends, this soup brings warmth and flavor that everyone can appreciate.

What Makes This Recipe Special

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the best of both worlds—comfort and satisfaction—this Copycat Panera Chicken & Wild Rice Soup is it. What’s fantastic about this recipe is how easily it marries rich, hearty flavors with the simplicity of everyday ingredients. It’s budget-friendly, quick to whip up on a weeknight, and pleasing to even the pickiest eaters. Plus, making it at home means you can enjoy a wholesome meal without the café price tag.

"This soup is my go-to for cold nights! So creamy and rich, just like the one from Panera!" – A satisfied cook

The Cooking Process Explained

To create this delightful soup, you’ll start by sautéing aromatics like carrots, onion, and celery, which will lay a flavorful foundation. Next, you’ll add the stock, cream, and spices, allowing the rich goodness to simmer. Finally, the Rice a Roni brings that beloved wild rice flavor, transforming your meal into something truly special. Here’s how the magic unfolds!

What You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for creating this heartwarming dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 small carrot (finely diced)
1 stalk celery (finely diced)
1 large white onion (finely diced)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 1/2 tbsp minced garlic
2 cups chicken stock
1 cup heavy cream (divided)
2 cups water
2 cups whole milk (divided)
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 dried bay leaf
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 (4.3 oz.) box of Rice a Roni Long Grain and Wild Rice + seasoning packet
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Scallions (for garnish)

Feel free to consider alternatives, such as using low-fat milk or a non-dairy substitute if you’re looking for a lighter version or dietary adjustments.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bowl of homemade copycat Panera Chicken & Wild Rice Soup with fresh ingredients

Sauté the Veggies: In a large stockpot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced carrots, onion, and celery, cooking until the onions are tender—about 10 minutes.
Add Aromatics: Stir in the garlic, then pour in the chicken stock, water, 1 cup of whole milk, and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Blend until well mixed.
Incorporate the Spices: Add the ground black pepper, dried oregano, bay leaf, and the shredded chicken. Let the soup simmer on medium heat for about 15 minutes.
Make the Roux: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of cream, and flour, whisking until smooth.
Thicken the Soup: Gradually pour the flour mixture into the soup, stirring consistently until blended.
Add the Rice: Pour in the Rice a Roni box, including the seasoning packet. Stir well and let it simmer for an additional 20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
Final Touches: Season to taste with salt and pepper and garnish with sliced scallions.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve your Copycat Panera Chicken & Wild Rice Soup piping hot, perhaps alongside crusty bread for dipping or a simple green salad to balance the richness. You could also garnish it with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a little heat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (though this is hard to imagine), they can be stored up to three days in the refrigerator. Just ensure that you cool the soup before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream for that original luscious texture. It’s important to remember that creamy soups often thicken when refrigerated, so adjust the consistency as needed.

Pro Chef Tips

Quality Counts: Use freshly cooked chicken for a deeper flavor, or opt for a rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, consider adding more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the soup.
Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to modify the ratio of cream and milk based on your personal preference for richness.

Creative Twists

Try adding different proteins or experimenting with spices to customize your soup. For a spicy kick, toss in some crushed red pepper. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or mushrooms, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make this soup?

Preparation and cooking time totals about 50-60 minutes.

Can I freeze the soup?

While you can freeze the soup, creamy soups may separate after thawing. To maintain the best texture, it’s better enjoyed fresh.

What can I substitute for the heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a low-fat milk alternative if you prefer a lighter version.

Is there a gluten-free option?

To make this soup gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour and ensure your broth is certified gluten-free.

This Copycat Panera Chicken & Wild Rice Soup is truly a bowl of goodness that offers comfort and warmth, perfect for sharing with loved ones or simply enjoying on your own. Give it a try, and you’ll surely want to make it again and again!