The Highest Protein Option at Panera
When searching for the single item with the most protein on the Panera menu, the current champion is the Chicken Cordon Bleu Melt, boasting an impressive 73 grams of protein. This hearty sandwich is a powerful choice for anyone looking to maximize their protein intake in a single meal. Made with smoked, pulled chicken, Black Forest ham, Swiss cheese, and creamy Dijon mustard on a toasted baguette, it is a filling and protein-packed option that stands out on the menu. While it delivers significantly on protein, it's also important to be aware of other nutritional information, such as high sodium content, which is common in many fast-casual sandwiches. For those with specific dietary goals, customization is key to enjoying this meal while balancing overall nutrition.
Other Excellent High-Protein Sandwiches
Beyond the top contender, Panera offers a variety of other sandwiches with strong protein counts. It’s a good idea to consider these alternatives based on your personal taste and macro goals.
- Toasted Italiano: This sandwich is another solid choice, reported with 60 grams of protein in some nutritional reviews. It includes a variety of cured meats, provolone, and spreads, making it a savory, protein-heavy option. However, similar to the Chicken Cordon Bleu Melt, it comes with a significant sodium load.
- Steak & Egg on Ciabatta: For a high-protein breakfast, this sandwich is a top performer. The combination of steak, egg, and cheese delivers a substantial 33 grams of protein to start your day. It's a great warm meal option for mornings.
- Toasted Frontega Chicken: A fan-favorite, the Toasted Frontega Chicken sandwich offers a respectable 45 grams of protein from its smoked chicken, making it a classic high-protein meal.
High-Protein Salads and Bowls
For those seeking lower-calorie or fresher high-protein options, Panera's salads and bowls are excellent alternatives. Grilled chicken is a lean protein source that can be added to many items.
- Green Goddess Chicken Cobb: A full-sized Green Goddess Cobb salad with chicken contains 37 grams of protein, a substantial amount for a lighter meal. The ingredients, including chicken, bacon, and egg, contribute to its high protein content.
- Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl: This warm bowl delivers a solid 46 grams of protein. It features sliced chicken, brown rice, broccoli, and a teriyaki glaze, offering a different flavor profile than the typical sandwich.
- Asian Sesame Chicken Salad: This popular salad provides 35 grams of protein from grilled chicken and toasted almonds. It’s a lighter, flavorful option that doesn’t skimp on protein.
Comparison of High-Protein Panera Items
| Item | Meal Type | Protein (g) | Key Ingredients | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Cordon Bleu Melt | Sandwich | 73 | Smoked chicken, ham, Swiss | Highest protein, high sodium |
| Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Bowl | Bowl | 46 | Sliced chicken, brown rice, broccoli | Balanced option |
| Toasted Frontega Chicken | Sandwich | 45 | Smoked chicken, cheese | Classic, solid protein |
| Green Goddess Chicken Cobb (Full) | Salad | 37 | Chicken, bacon, egg, greens | Lighter, lower-calorie meal |
| Steak & Egg on Ciabatta | Breakfast Sandwich | 33 | Steak, egg, cheese | Excellent breakfast choice |
| Turkey Chili with Beans | Soup/Bread Bowl | 41 (in bread bowl) | Turkey, beans | Hearty, savory |
| Asian Sesame Chicken Salad (Full) | Salad | 35 | Chicken, almonds, wontons | Popular, lighter option |
Customization Strategies for Maximum Protein
To increase the protein in your Panera meal, consider these simple customizations:
- Add Extra Protein: Requesting extra grilled chicken, steak, or hard-boiled eggs is an easy way to boost the protein content of almost any salad, bowl, or sandwich.
- Choose the Right Bread: Opting for a whole-grain or bagel base over a croissant can impact the overall nutritional balance, with some bagel options adding notable protein.
- Consider Sides: Adding a side of hard-boiled eggs to a bowl or salad can increase your total protein count by 13 grams. Greek yogurt is another excellent protein-rich side.
- Mind the Sodium: Many of the highest-protein sandwiches are also very high in sodium. To reduce this, consider forgoing extra spreads or asking for lighter dressings. Pairing a high-sodium item with a simple, fresh side like an apple or extra greens is also a good strategy.
Conclusion
When answering the question 'what has the most protein at Panera,' the Chicken Cordon Bleu Melt is the clear winner with 73 grams. However, Panera offers a wide array of high-protein menu items catering to different tastes and nutritional needs, from hearty sandwiches to lighter salads and warm bowls. By using customization techniques like adding extra protein or choosing specific sides, you can further optimize your meal. It's always beneficial to review the official Panera nutrition guide to make the most informed choices for your diet, especially concerning total calories, sodium, and fat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What has the most protein at Panera in the soup category?
The Turkey Chili with Beans is the highest-protein soup option, especially when served in a sourdough bread bowl, which brings the total protein to 41 grams.
Is it possible to increase protein in a Panera salad?
Yes, you can easily increase the protein in any Panera salad by asking for extra grilled chicken or a side of hard-boiled eggs.
What is a high-protein vegetarian option at Panera?
While Panera's highest protein options are meat-based, the Greek Yogurt with Mixed Berries provides a good 16 grams of protein for a vegetarian snack or breakfast.
Does adding a bread bowl to my soup increase the protein?
Yes, a sourdough bread bowl adds 27 grams of protein to any soup, significantly boosting the total protein content of your meal.
Are Panera's high-protein items also healthy?
High-protein items at Panera, especially some sandwiches, can be very high in sodium and saturated fat. While protein is good, it's essential to consider the overall nutritional profile for a balanced diet.
How can I find the official nutrition information for Panera menu items?
You can find the official nutritional information by visiting the Panera Bread website and checking their allergen and nutrition information guide.
What's a good high-protein breakfast option at Panera?
The Steak & Egg on Ciabatta is a top-tier breakfast choice, packing 33 grams of protein.
What is a high-protein, lower-carb option?
The Green Goddess Chicken Cobb Salad is a great lower-carb, high-protein option, especially if you ask for it without the croutons and use less dressing.
