If you love Panera Bread's Chicken Noodle Soup, you’re in for a treat with this cozy Chicken Noodle Soup copycat recipe. My son, Jake, always asks for this soup when he’s feeling under the weather, and it warms his heart (and tummy) every time. Let’s dive into making this comforting classic at home.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s quick and easy to whip up.
- You can customize it with your favorite veggies.
- It’s a family favorite that everyone enjoys.
Pure Comfort
This Chicken Noodle Soup is pure comfort in a bowl. The tender chicken, hearty noodles, and vibrant veggies create a delightful harmony that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up.
What You Need
- 1 1 tablespoon olive oil – or any cooking oil you prefer.
- 1 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 2 medium carrots, sliced – or 1 cup frozen carrots.
- 2 2 celery stalks, diced – or 1 cup frozen celery.
- 3 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 64 8 cups chicken broth – homemade or store-bought.
- 2 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – rotisserie chicken works great.
- 1 1 teaspoon dried thyme – or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme.
- 1 1 teaspoon dried parsley – or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley.
- 8 8 oz egg noodles – or any pasta of your choice.
- to taste Salt and pepper to taste
Time to Cook
Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Total: 45 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored.
Steps to Make It
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. This will fill your kitchen with a lovely aroma.
- Next, toss in the sliced carrots and diced celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the veggies soften. You want them to be vibrant and bright.
- Add the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should just be lightly golden.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. As it heats, the broth will bubble and steam, creating a cozy atmosphere in your kitchen.
- Once boiling, add the shredded chicken, thyme, and parsley. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. The flavors will meld beautifully during this time.
- Stir in the egg noodles and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. They should be soft but not mushy, perfect for slurping.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir and take a moment to enjoy the comforting aroma wafting through your home.
- Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. It’s best enjoyed with a slice of crusty bread.
Make It Perfect
- For extra flavor, consider adding a bay leaf during the simmering stage; just remember to remove it before serving.
- If you want a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving.
- Feel free to add other veggies like peas or corn for added nutrition.
Mix It Up
- Try using whole wheat noodles for a healthier option.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Pair it with a warm baguette or grilled cheese sandwich.
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FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
How can I make it more flavorful?
Adding fresh herbs at the end can really enhance the flavor.
Conclusion
This Panera Bread Soup Copycat recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, you’ll want to make it again and again. Enjoy every warm, cozy spoonful!

Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the sliced carrots and diced celery and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the shredded chicken, thyme, and parsley, reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the egg noodles and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and stir well.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley.