Ultimate Copycat Panera Chili Recipe

Panera Bread’s chili is a beloved dish known for its hearty ingredients and comforting flavors. Did you know that this popular dish contains approximately 19 grams of protein per serving, making it both delicious and nutritious?

Panera chili in a bowl
A hearty bowl of Panera chili ready to satisfy your cravings.

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What You’ll Make

This recipe will yield a pot of flavorful Panera chili packed with lean turkey, wholesome beans, and a medley of spices.

Ingredients for Panera chili
Key ingredients for the famous Panera chili.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 jalapeno, minced
  • 1 can kidney beans
  • 1 can garbanzo beans
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

To make this chili, you’ll need a durable stockpot, reliable tongs, and sturdy mixing bowls.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in your stockpot over medium heat. Cook the turkey until browned, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add onions and jalapenos to the pot, and sauté until they soften.
  3. Stir in the kidney and garbanzo beans, followed by the crushed tomatoes and chili powder.
  4. Season with salt and pepper, and let the chili simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Panera chili
The process of cooking Panera chili to perfection.

Tips & Troubleshooting

  • Adjust the spice levels by adding more or less chili powder to suit your preference.
  • If your chili is too thick, add a bit of water or broth to reach the desired consistency.

Variations

  • For a vegetarian version, replace turkey with extra beans or chopped veggies.
  • Enhance flavor by adding smoked paprika or cumin.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

FAQ

  • Can I freeze Panera chili? Yes, this chili freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw and heat before enjoying.
  • What toppings go well with chili? Consider cheese, sour cream, or green onions as tasty additions.
Served Panera chili with toppings
A delicious serving of Panera chili with vibrant toppings.

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