Cream of Chicken & Wild Rice Soup (Copycat Panera) Recipe
Cream of Chicken & Wild Rice Soup (Copycat Panera) Recipe is wholesome, and satisfying.
With chicken, wild rice, and a creamy soup base, it’s a hearty choice for any lunch or dinner. It’s easy to prepare and versatile, pairing well with everything from a light salad to a slice of your favorite bread.
This recipe is all about bringing a touch of comfort food to your table with minimal fuss.
Whether you’re winding down after a long day or just craving something hearty, this soup delivers warmth and flavor in every spoonful.
Tips and Tricks
Perfect Shredded Chicken
To make shredding chicken easier, use a hand mixer or stand mixer. Place the cooked chicken breasts in the mixing bowl and mix on low speed until shredded. This method saves time and effort compared to using forks.
Creamy Consistency
For an extra smooth cream mixture, make sure your butter is fully melted and bubbling before adding the flour. This helps to avoid lumps in your roux. Additionally, ensure you whisk constantly while adding the cream to achieve a perfectly smooth texture.
Flavor Boost
Add a bay leaf to the broth while cooking the chicken for an enhanced flavor. Remember to remove it before adding the rice. You can also add a splash of white wine to the broth for a richer taste.
Thickening the Soup
If you prefer a thicker soup, let the cream mixture cook a bit longer, stirring frequently to avoid burning. You can also reduce the amount of water added to the broth for a thicker consistency.
Rice Cooking Tip
Make sure to follow the instructions on your rice package closely. Some quick-cooking rice varieties may require slightly different water ratios or cooking times. Adjust accordingly to ensure your rice is perfectly cooked.
Seasoning Adjustments
Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want to add more salt or pepper based on your preference. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also add a burst of fresh flavor to the final dish.
Related Recipes
Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat)
Easy Buffalo Chicken Soup
Copycat Outback Steakhouse Baked Potato Soup
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Cream of Chicken & Wild Rice Soup (Copycat Panera)
Ingredients
- 2 cooked boneless chicken breast halves shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 package (4.5 ounce) quick cooking long grain and wild rice with seasoning packet
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
Instructions
- Place the chicken, broth, and water in a large pot. Set the pot over medium heat.
- Once the mixture starts boiling, add the rice. Remember to keep the seasoning packet aside for now. After adding the rice, cover the pot and turn off the heat.
- In a small bowl, mix together flour, salt, and pepper.
- Next, heat butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in the seasoning packet that was set aside earlier. Keep stirring until the mixture gets bubbly.
- Turn the heat to low. Now, gradually add the flour mixture to the butter. Do this a few tablespoons at a time. Keep stirring all the while, so you get a smooth mixture called a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the cream into this roux. Add it a little at a time and keep whisking until it's fully mixed in and smooth.
- Cook this cream mixture for about 5 minutes, or until it gets thicker.
- Now, it's time to add the flour and cream mixture to the broth and rice in the large pot.
- Cook everything together over medium heat for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until it's all heated through and ready to serve.
Nutrition
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