Panera Bread's Chicken Noodle Soup (Copycat Recipe)

This comforting Chicken Noodle Soup is a classic rendition inspired by Panera Bread, featuring tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and egg noodles simmered in a flavorful broth. It's a perfect dish for chilly days, offering a warm, nourishing experience that is both satisfying and wholesome. This recipe adheres to traditional cooking methods and is suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 bay leaf
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken, thyme, parsley, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Once boiling, add the egg noodles and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the noodles are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.