5 Must-Try Items on the Panera Dinner Menu
If you’re craving a savory meal at Panera, you’ve got to try the Bistro French Onion Soup with its rich caramelized onion broth and melty Gruyère cheese.
The Bacon Turkey Bravo Sandwich brings crispy bacon and smoky turkey with signature sauce on toasted bread.
Don’t miss the bold Smokehouse BBQ Chicken Sandwich or the creamy, comforting Mac & Cheese.
For a healthier option, the Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Bowl offers tender chicken and fresh veggies over grain.
Keep exploring to discover what makes each a standout choice.
Bistro French Onion Soup
If you’re looking for a comforting starter or a hearty main, Panera’s Bistro French Onion Soup is a must-try. This top-ranked Panera soup features a rich caramelized onion broth simmered with beef stock, delivering a hearty savory taste that’s both deep and satisfying.
What sets it apart is the perfect blend of melted Gruyère cheese and toasted breadcrumbs layered on top, adding a delightful texture and rich flavor with every spoonful. Served in a warm bread bowl, the soup becomes even more indulgent, soaking up the broth for a truly comforting starter or meal.
Its deep, sweet onion notes capture the essence of traditional French recipes, something you won’t easily replicate at home. Whether you’re stopping in for a light appetizer or a full dinner, the Bistro French Onion Soup offers a classic experience that stands out among Panera soups. It’s a delicious choice that’s worth every bite.
Bacon Turkey Bravo Sandwich
After enjoying the rich, comforting flavors of the Bistro French Onion Soup, you might be ready for something hearty and satisfying like the Bacon Turkey Bravo Sandwich. This Panera favorite stands out with its savory blend of ingredients that promise a protein-packed meal.
Here’s why you’ll love it:
Here’s why you’ll love it: a perfect blend of crispy, creamy, and savory flavors that satisfy every craving.
- Crispy bacon and sliced turkey create a smoky, hearty base.
- Melted cheese adds a creamy, savory touch that complements the meats.
- Signature sauce brings a unique flavor that ties all the elements together.
- Served on toasted bread, usually a baguette or ciabatta, offering a perfect crunch and texture.
You can even customize it with avocado or extra bacon for an enhanced taste. The bacon turkey bravo sandwich is a satisfying choice when you want something flavorful and filling at Panera without sacrificing quality or taste.
Smokehouse BBQ Chicken Sandwich
When you want a sandwich that packs a smoky punch with a touch of tangy sweetness, the Smokehouse BBQ Chicken Sandwich is a perfect choice. This Panera dinner menu favorite features tender smoked chicken tossed in apple cider vinegar BBQ sauce, balancing smoky flavor with tangy and sweet notes.
Served on thick white miche bread, it offers a hearty bite enhanced by crispy fried onions and fresh red onions, adding satisfying crunch and texture.
Here’s a quick look at what makes this sandwich stand out:
| Feature | Description | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Smoked Chicken | Tender, smoky meat | Smoky |
| BBQ Sauce | Apple cider vinegar-based | Tangy, sweet |
| Bread | Thick slices of white miche | Hearty |
| Onions | Crispy fried and fresh red onions | Crunchy |
| Overall Experience | Messy but flavorful | Bold, smoky, tangy, sweet |
This sandwich is perfect if you crave bold, smoky taste with a delightful tang.
Mac & Cheese
Though it’s a simple dish, Panera’s Mac & Cheese stands out with its perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a creamy, velvety cheese sauce that hits just the right balance of flavor and comfort.
This rich, cheesy delight is made from a blend of high-quality cheeses, giving it a satisfying depth that makes it a top choice on the menu.
Here’s why you’ll love Panera’s Mac & Cheese:
- The pasta is al dente, providing a perfect bite every time.
- The creamy cheese sauce is silky smooth, coating each noodle with rich flavor.
- You can customize it with hot sauce or toppings to suit your taste.
- It’s a nostalgic comfort food that appeals to both kids and adults.
If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy meal, this Mac & Cheese delivers warmth and indulgence in every spoonful.
Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Bowl
If you’re looking for a meal that’s both flavorful and healthy, the Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Bowl is a perfect choice. This Panera menu item features tender teriyaki chicken marinated in a mildly sweet sauce, served over cilantro lime brown rice and quinoa.
Crunchy broccoli florets add a fresh vegetable element, balancing the savory, protein-rich grilled chicken. Seasoned lightly with lime and cilantro, it’s a balanced meal that satisfies without weighing you down.
Perfect as an on-the-go meal, it fits seamlessly into your busy schedule while delivering a healthy dinner option.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Teriyaki Chicken | Flavorful, protein-rich |
| Broccoli Bowl | Fresh vegetables |
| Brown Rice & Quinoa | Balanced grains |
This bowl combines grains, vegetables, and grilled chicken for a nutritious, flavorful dish that’s both convenient and satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Best Thing to Get at Panera?
If you’re wondering what to get at Panera, you can’t go wrong with the Bistro French Onion Soup in a bread bowl. It’s warm, cheesy, and comforting.
If you’re craving something hearty, try the Smokehouse BBQ Chicken Sandwich for that smoky, tangy flavor. For a lighter option, the Greek Yogurt Parfait with berries is fresh and satisfying.
Whatever you choose, Panera’s got something tasty to fit your mood and appetite.
Is There a Secret Menu at Panera Bread?
You could say Panera has a “hidden treasure” rather than a secret menu. While there’s no official list, you can definitely create your own special orders by mixing and matching ingredients.
If you know exactly what you want and how to ask for it, the staff can usually help you whip up something unique. Just be clear with your instructions since these custom creations aren’t standard across all locations.
What Is Panera Famous For?
Panera’s famous for its freshly baked bread, which you’ll notice is made daily right in the store. You’ll definitely want to try their sourdough or ciabatta.
They’re also known for hearty soups, especially the French Onion Soup in a bread bowl, super comforting. Plus, Panera focuses on clean, quality ingredients and offers healthy choices like salads and wraps, so you can enjoy fresh, transparent meals that fit your lifestyle.
What Not to Order at Panera?
You might want to skip the Caesar Salad if you don’t like salty dressings because it can be pretty heavily seasoned. The Greek Salad’s quite light, so it won’t fill you up if you’re hungry.
The Tuna Salad Sandwich can taste bland without extra toppings or seasoning. If you’re watching sodium or artificial ingredients, the Mac & Cheese might not be your best bet. Also, the Frozen Chocolate Cold Brew can be way too sweet if you prefer less sugary drinks.
Conclusion
Next time you’re at Panera for dinner, don’t miss these five must-try items. Imagine winding down after a long day with a warm bowl of Bistro French Onion Soup, just like Sarah did after her late work meeting. It instantly lifted her spirits.
Whether you crave the smoky BBQ chicken or creamy Mac & Cheese, these dishes promise a satisfying, cozy meal you’ll want to revisit again and again.