Panera Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Calories by Serving Size
The number of calories in Panera's Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice soup varies significantly depending on the serving size. It is important to know this information, as the options range from a small cup suitable for a side to a full bread bowl that can constitute an entire meal.
Cup
A standard cup of Panera's Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice soup contains approximately 180 calories. This portion is often selected as part of the 'You Pick Two' menu, offering a lighter option compared to a full bowl. The nutritional breakdown for the cup typically includes about 10g of fat, 18g of carbohydrates, and 6g of protein.
Bowl
For a larger and more satisfying portion, the bowl of this soup is a popular choice. The caloric content for a bowl is 280 calories. This size provides a heartier meal, with its nutrition facts reflecting the increased volume of soup. It contains 16g of fat, 27g of carbohydrates, and 8g of protein.
Bread Bowl
The most substantial and calorie-dense option is the bread bowl. When you order the Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice soup in a bread bowl, the calorie count jumps dramatically due to the addition of the large, hollowed-out bread. The soup and bread bowl together contain an estimated 860 calories, though sources may vary slightly. This version is a full-fledged, high-calorie meal, transforming the soup into a much more indulgent experience.
A Detailed Look at Panera's Soup and Bread Bowl
The bread bowl's impact on the overall nutritional profile is significant. It's not just a vehicle for the soup; it's a major component of the meal itself. The thick, crusty sourdough bread adds a substantial amount of carbohydrates and calories, making the bread bowl version a far cry from the relatively light cup option.
Here is a comparison of the different serving sizes based on information from Panera and calorie tracking sites:
| Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cup | 180 | 10 | 18 | 6 |
| Bowl | 280 | 16 | 27 | 8 |
| Bread Bowl | ~860 | 15 | 149 | 32 |
*Note: The Bread Bowl nutrition values reflect the combined calories of the soup and the sourdough bread bowl itself, explaining the significant jump in carbohydrates and overall calories.
Making Healthier Soup Choices
If you are watching your caloric intake, choosing the cup or bowl over the bread bowl is the most direct way to reduce calories. You can also make other choices to reduce the impact of your meal.
Alternatives to the Bread Bowl
- Pair with a salad: Instead of a heavy bread bowl, opt for a cup of the soup paired with a garden or Caesar salad. This provides a more balanced meal with additional nutrients.
- Order with a side baguette: For a lighter bread option, get the cup or bowl with a side of the French baguette. The baguette adds a modest number of calories compared to the full bread bowl.
- You Pick Two: This menu option allows for portion control. Combining a cup of soup with a half salad or half sandwich helps manage calories while still enjoying a varied meal.
The Impact of Ingredients
The cream base is a significant contributor to the fat and calorie content of this particular soup. For those seeking lower-calorie soup options at Panera, alternatives like the Low-Fat Vegetarian Black Bean or the Chicken Noodle soup are better choices. It's important to remember that 'creamy' often implies a higher fat and calorie count.
The Panera at Home Version
For those who enjoy the soup but want more control over the ingredients or portion size, Panera also offers its Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup for purchase at home. A 16 oz container of the retail version contains 480 calories. This option is useful for home preparation, where you can pair it with your own sides and control the overall meal's nutritional profile.
- Controlled Portions: You can portion out the soup into smaller servings to better manage calorie consumption throughout the week.
- Add Your Own Sides: Pairing the at-home soup with a light side salad or whole-wheat crackers allows you to customize your meal for specific dietary needs.
Conclusion
When ordering Panera's Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice soup, your serving size choice is the biggest determinant of the final calorie count. The cup is the lightest option at 180 calories, the bowl provides a moderate 280 calories, and the bread bowl, with its large portion of sourdough, comes in at a substantial 860 calories. Being mindful of these differences empowers you to make informed decisions that align with your dietary goals. For those looking for maximum flavor with minimum impact, the cup or bowl paired with a healthier side is the recommended path. For full nutritional transparency, Panera's official website provides the most up-to-date information.
