Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe – Cozy Homemade Bowl

This Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is warm, comforting, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have. You can cook it on the stovetop in just one pot, and it turns out rich and flavorful every time.

Whether you want a nourishing lunch or a cozy dinner option, this classic chicken noodle soup homemade version is perfect. It’s also a great way to use leftover or cooked chicken, making your weeknight dinners a little easier.

Simple to prep and ready in 30 minutes, this chicken noodle soup easy recipe is one you’ll turn to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Best Easy Chicken Noodle Soup

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own bowl of chicken noodle soup, especially when it comes together with so little effort. Here’s why this stovetop chicken noodle soup easy recipe deserves a spot in your meal rotation.

• It’s fast, flavorful, and full of real ingredients
• Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully
• Easily adaptable with pantry staples
• Perfect for cold days or whenever you need a reset meal
• Tastes even better the next day

Whether you’re feeding your family or prepping a big batch for the week, this chicken noodle soup with cooked chicken provides cozy satisfaction without the hassle. The broth is seasoned just right, the noodles stay tender, and the vegetables offer color and nutrition. Unlike some soups that require complicated steps, this one uses a straightforward method that delivers results every time. The result is a better-than-Panera chicken soup that’s full of depth, flavor, and comfort. You’ll love how it fills your kitchen with the aroma of garlic, thyme, and simmered broth, making it a go-to recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients for Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

This Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe uses wholesome ingredients to bring comforting flavor in every spoonful. Choose fresh and colorful produce for the best result. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing the vegetables)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced (adds sweetness and depth)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (for rich aroma)
• 3 medium carrots, sliced thin (adds natural sweetness and color)
• 2 celery stalks, sliced (classic for texture and balance)
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (base of the soup)
• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or leftover chicken works great)
• 2 cups wide egg noodles (traditional and hearty)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (gives the soup its signature taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (for freshness and subtle flavor)
• 1 teaspoon salt, more to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice (brightens the broth at the end)

For the chicken, you can use any cooked chicken you have, roasted, boiled, rotisserie, or even leftover grilled chicken. It’s a great way to avoid waste while making a homemade meal.

For the broth, choose a good-quality stock for the deepest flavor. The wide egg noodles are traditional, but feel free to try spiral or whole wheat pasta for a different texture.

This soup is flexible and forgiving, making it perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a quick classic meal.

If you’re looking for another traditional soup, try this Home Made Chicken Noodle Soup.

How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup on the Stove

Making this chicken noodle soup easy recipe is simple and can be done in one large soup pot. The steps are short and clear, with minimal prep required.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables in the seasoning.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the cooked chicken and noodles. Simmer for another 8 to 10 minutes until the noodles are cooked through. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Optional: stir in lemon juice for a touch of brightness before serving.

That’s all it takes to get this soup on the table. The result is a warm, soothing bowl of classic chicken noodle soup homemade that’s ready in about 30 minutes. The longer it sits, the more the flavors blend and deepen. You can also add extra broth if the noodles absorb too much liquid.

Want more from-scratch inspiration? Check out this Chicken Noodle Soup from Scratch.

What to Serve with Panera Chicken Soup

This chicken noodle soup pairs well with a variety of sides and toppings. Whether you’re serving it as the main course or a starter, here are some great options to complete the meal.

Bread Sides

• Crusty sourdough or baguette slices
• Buttery garlic toast
• Warm dinner rolls or biscuits

Salad Pairings

• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Caesar salad with crunchy croutons
• Tomato cucumber salad for freshness

Toppings and Extras

• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
• Grated parmesan or shredded cheddar cheese
• A splash of hot sauce or lemon juice for extra flavor

Serving Tips

• Serve it with a sandwich for a full lunch
• Pour into a thermos for school or work lunches
• Use smaller bowls for a multi-course dinner

This soup is satisfying on its own but becomes even more enjoyable when paired with the right sides. You can also make it a meal prep staple by storing it in individual containers and grabbing it for quick meals throughout the week.

If you prefer a slower-cooked flavor profile, try this Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup.

Chicken Noodle Soup With Leftover Chicken (Variations)

This classic recipe is easy to customize depending on your taste and what’s in your fridge. Here are some creative and simple ways to switch it up.

Use Different Proteins

• Leftover rotisserie chicken
• Grilled chicken breast sliced thin
• Shredded turkey after a holiday meal

Vegetable Boosts

• Add baby spinach or chopped kale near the end
• Stir in frozen peas for sweetness
• Use diced zucchini or squash for extra veggies

Noodle Swaps

• Substitute with orzo, ditalini, or elbow macaroni
• Use brown rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option
• Cook noodles separately to avoid them getting mushy

Broth Upgrades

• Stir in a splash of cream for richness
• Add a pinch of turmeric for color and health benefits
• Finish with a swirl of olive oil or a dollop of Greek yogurt

Spice Options

• Red pepper flakes for heat
• Dash of smoked paprika for depth
• Sprinkle of Italian seasoning for herb blend

Customizing your soup allows you to cater to dietary needs or simply switch things up for variety. Whether you’re cooking for kids, picky eaters, or soup lovers, this recipe adapts beautifully.

Chicken Noodle Soup Easy Storage and Reheating

Making a large batch of this Panera chicken soup means you’ll likely have leftovers. The good news? It stores and reheats wonderfully.

Storage Instructions

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• For longer storage, freeze up to 3 months in freezer-safe bags or containers
• If freezing, consider storing the noodles separately to avoid sogginess

Reheating Tips

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through
• Add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore consistency if needed
• Microwave in a microwave-safe container for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway

This soup is a meal prep favorite because it maintains its flavor even after freezing. Just make sure to stir well when reheating and taste again for seasoning. If the noodles seem too soft, cooking and storing them separately is the best approach for preserving texture.

Pro Tips for Making Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup Easy

Even simple recipes benefit from a few helpful tips to make them more foolproof. These are tried-and-true strategies to ensure your chicken noodle soup turns out great every time.

Use Quality Broth

• Choose a good low-sodium broth or homemade stock
• Taste your broth before adding salt, as some brands are already salty

Don’t Overcook the Noodles

• Add noodles at the end so they don’t become mushy
• If meal prepping, cook noodles separately and add when reheating

Prep Ahead

• Chop vegetables and store them in containers for quick access
• Use pre-cooked or shredded chicken to save time

Fresh Herbs at the End

• Stir in fresh parsley or dill just before serving
• This brightens the soup and adds fresh flavor

Adjust Seasoning Last

• Taste after cooking and adjust salt and pepper
• Add lemon juice to enhance overall flavor

These tips will help you achieve the best easy chicken noodle soup without overcomplicating the process. Little adjustments go a long way in flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Veggie and Chicken Soup

Even a classic dish like chicken noodle soup can go wrong without a little attention. Avoid these mistakes to ensure success in every bowl.

Using Bland Broth

• Avoid water or low-quality broth. Use flavorful stock for the best results.

Overcooking the Chicken

• If using fresh chicken, cook only until done. Overcooked chicken becomes tough.

Adding All Ingredients at Once

• Add noodles and herbs toward the end to maintain texture and flavor

Overseasoning Too Soon

• Wait until near the end to adjust seasoning. Ingredients may concentrate as they cook.

Forgetting to Stir

• Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking and uneven cooking

Skipping the Aromatics

• Garlic, onion, and herbs give this soup depth. Don’t skip the sauté step.

Not Letting It Rest

• Let the soup sit a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors settle

By keeping these tips in mind, you can enjoy consistent results every time. This soup is meant to be simple, but it shines when made with just a little attention to detail.

Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Homemade Conclusion

Now you’ve got everything you need to make the best version of this Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe in your own kitchen. It’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for any time of year.

Whether you’re making it from scratch or using up leftovers, this stovetop recipe delivers warm, satisfying results every time.

Pin this recipe to your dinner board or share it with friends, everyone loves a cozy bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup.

FAQ: Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

What kind of chicken is in Panera chicken noodle soup?

Panera uses white meat chicken breast in their soup. For this homemade version, any cooked chicken will work, including shredded breast, thigh, or rotisserie.

What type of noodles does Panera use in their chicken noodle soup?

Panera uses ribbon-style egg noodles. Wide egg noodles are the closest substitute and work well in this recipe.

Can I make chicken noodle soup with leftover chicken?

Yes, this recipe works perfectly with leftover chicken. It saves time and adds flavor, especially if the chicken is already seasoned.

Is Panera chicken noodle soup healthy?

Panera chicken noodle soup is considered a lighter soup option. This homemade version gives you full control over ingredients, making it easy to keep it healthy with lean protein and low-sodium broth.

Panera Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe – Cozy Homemade Bowl

Author: Ellie Courses: Soups