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As autumn’s chill sets in, a warm bowl of soup is perfect. Panera’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is loved for its Southwest spices, tender chicken, and crispy tortilla strips. Why not make it at home instead of going to the restaurant?
This guide shows you how to make Panera Chicken Tortilla Soup in 30 minutes. With simple ingredients and a bit of skill, you’ll enjoy a meal as good as the original. It’s great for a quick dinner or meal prep.
So, put on your apron and explore panera chicken tortilla soup. It’s where home comfort meets Southwest flavors. Impress your loved ones with a homemade version that’s just as tasty as the original.
Understanding the Authentic Panera Chicken Tortilla Soup
Panera Bread’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is a favorite among many. It’s inspired by Southwestern flavors. This soup is loved for its balanced taste and satisfying ingredients.
Origins of the Recipe
The Panera Chicken Tortilla Soup comes from Mexico and the Southwestern United States. It combines a chicken broth base with chicken, corn, black beans, and spices. The spices include cumin and chili powder.
Why People Love This Soup
Many love Panera’s Chicken Tortilla Soup for its comforting taste. It has savory, spicy, and tangy flavors. The addition of crispy tortilla strips on top adds a nice crunch.
Key Flavor Components
The Panera Chicken Tortilla Soup starts with a rich chicken broth. This base lets the other ingredients shine. Chicken, corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes make it nourishing. The spice blend adds depth, making it a treat for the senses.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Panera Chicken Tortilla Soup |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Total Sugars | 8g |
| Sodium | 1160mg (50% DV) |
| Protein | 20g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 37g |
| Dietary Fiber | 10g |
| Added Sugars | 1g (2% DV) |
| Calcium | 100mg |
| Iron | 2.8mg |
| Potassium | 610mg (15% DV) |
Essential Ingredients for Your Homemade Version
Making Panera-style chicken tortilla soup at home is simple. Start with fresh, quality ingredients for a flavorful soup. The main parts of this soup are:
- Low-sodium chicken broth or stock for a rich base
- Shredded cooked chicken, like rotisserie, for convenience
- Diced tomatoes for a bit of acidity and sweetness
- Black beans and corn for texture and nutrition
- Lime juice to enhance the flavors
- Fragrant cilantro for a unique herbal taste
- Corn tortillas, cut into strips and crisped, for the classic crunch
To get the Panera taste, use a mix of spices. Include chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. For a spicy touch, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Fresh onion, jalapeño, and garlic add depth and complexity.
Using these tortilla soup ingredients and healthy soup options, you can make Panera’s soup at home. Enjoy the comforting warmth and vibrant flavors of this homemade soup!
Kitchen Equipment and Tools Needed
To make Panera Chicken Tortilla Soup at home, you’ll need some key tools. You’ll need a large 6-7 quart Dutch oven or stockpot for the soup. Also, a sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board are essential for chopping ingredients.
Must-Have Cooking Vessels
- Large 6-7 quart Dutch oven or stockpot
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Optional Tools for Convenience
While the basics are enough, some optional tools can make things easier. An immersion blender or blender helps make the soup smooth. A food processor is great for chopping veggies fast. For crispy tortilla strips, use a Silpat or foil-lined baking sheet.
Lastly, a ladle and serving bowls are needed for serving the soup nicely.
| Essential Soup Cooking Equipment | Optional Convenience Tools |
|---|---|
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With these soup cooking equipment and kitchen tools for soup making, you can easily make Panera Chicken Tortilla Soup at home.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making a tasty how to make chicken tortilla soup at home is simple. Follow this guide to make a delicious easy soup recipe that’s just like Panera’s.
- Begin by cooking diced onions and jalapeños in a large pot or Dutch oven. Use a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Cook until the onions are clear, about 5 minutes.
- Cook for an additional minute after adding the minced garlic to the saucepan. Always stir to prevent scorching.
- Next, pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, shredded chicken, frozen corn, fresh lime juice, and spices like cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Let it boil.
- After boiling, lower the heat and let the chicken tortilla soup simmer for 5-7 minutes. This lets the flavors mix well.
- Adjust the seasoning and stir in the chopped cilantro. Extra lime juice, salt, or pepper can be added as needed.
- Your easy soup recipe is now ready! Serve the warm chicken tortilla soup in bowls. Top with tortilla strips, avocado, cheese, or your favorite toppings.
This how to make chicken tortilla soup recipe cooks in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick dinner on a busy weeknight. For quicker prep, use a pre-shredded rotisserie chicken.
Making the Perfect Tortilla Strips
Start your Panera-style Chicken Tortilla Soup with crispy tortilla strips. These crunchy toppings add texture and flavor. Follow these steps to make the perfect homemade tortilla strips for your soup.
Cutting and Seasoning Tips
First, cut corn tortillas into 1/4-inch thin strips. Then, toss the strips with olive oil and kosher salt. This seasoning helps them become crispy as they bake.
Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the seasoned tortilla strips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
- Let the homemade tortilla strips cool completely before using them as a topping for your Chicken Tortilla Soup.
For convenience, you can make the tortilla strips ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve. This way, you’ll always have homemade tortilla strips to add to your crispy soup toppings whenever you want a comforting bowl of Panera-inspired Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Mastering the Soup Base Technique
Creating a flavorful soup base is key to a delicious Panera-style chicken tortilla soup. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers until they’re lightly browned. This step enhances their natural flavors, setting the stage for a rich, flavorful broth.
Then, add your spices. Mix in cumin, chili powder, and other seasonings. Let them cook in the hot oil for a minute or two. This step blends the flavors into the soup base.
Next, add your soup base recipe. Use low-sodium broth to control the salt. Simmer the mixture for 15-20 minutes. This simmering is crucial for a complex, well-rounded soup base.
Grind a little of the soup to thicken and smooth it up. Pour the mixture into the blender or use a handheld immersion blender. To achieve the desired consistency, adjust the amounts of liquid.
With these techniques, you’ll master the art of a flavorful broth. Your homemade Panera chicken tortilla soup will impress everyone!
Adding the Signature Panera Flavor Profile
Making Panera-style chicken tortilla soup at home is all about the flavor. Key spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika give it a unique taste. These, along with salt and black pepper, make the soup warm and slightly smoky.
Spice Blend Components
To get the real Panera taste, use these spices in your soup:
- Chili powder – It adds a gentle heat and rich flavor.
- Cumin – This spice is earthy and aromatic, key to the Panera flavor.
- Smoked paprika – It brings a subtle smokiness that enhances the other flavors.
- Salt and black pepper – These classic seasonings balance the taste.
- Optional: Cayenne pepper – A pinch of cayenne adds extra heat for those who like it.
Seasoning Balance Tips
When mixing the spice blend, start with small amounts. Taste and adjust as you go. Blooming the spices in oil before adding them can make their flavors richer.
Adding a bit of acidity, like fresh lime juice, brightens the taste. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning at the end. This ensures the panera soup flavors are just right.
By using these tips and the right spice blend for soup, you can make Panera chicken tortilla soup at home.
Garnishing and Serving Suggestions
Make your homemade Panera-style chicken tortilla soup even better with fun garnishes and serving ideas. Let’s see how to turn this cozy dish into a top-notch meal at home.
First, make the crispy tortilla strips – a key part of this soup. Cut corn tortillas into thin strips. Then, toss them with oil and spices, and bake until they’re golden and crispy. These strips give a nice crunch to the rich broth.
- Fresh, diced avocado adds a creamy touch and a burst of fresh flavor.
- Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese melts well, making the soup creamy.
- A dollop of sour cream cools the soup and balances the spices.
- Chopped cilantro adds a fresh, herbal taste.
Offer wedges of fresh lime on the side. This lets guests add a tangy touch to their soup. Serve the soup with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a full meal.
Assemble a “topping bar” to serve your loved ones and visitors. All of the soup’s favorite toppings can be added at once. A lively and participatory dinner is created.
With these classic soup toppings and serving ideas for tortilla soup, you can make your homemade soup as good as Panera’s. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and comforting chicken tortilla soup.
Storage and Reheating Methods
To enjoy your homemade Panera-style chicken tortilla soup, knowing how to store and reheat it is key. This soup stays delicious in the fridge and freezer.
Freezing Guidelines
You can store any extra soup in the freezer for up to six months. Put it in bags or containers that won’t let air in or freeze it. Be sure to allow room for growth. Before reheating, let it thaw in the fridge for at least one night
Best Practices for Leftovers
Use an airtight jar and store in the fridge for 5-7 days. Put it back in the oven or microwave and reheat it. While stirring often, bring it to a simmer over medium heat in a saucepan. Cook in microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each.
Remember to add fresh tortilla strips, avocado slices, and toppings just before serving. This keeps them crispy and flavorful.