Top Healthy Choices At Panera Bread: A Complete Guide - The Chicken Noodle Soup is a classic option that’s both light and satisfying. Made with whole-grain noodles and lean chicken, it’s a great choice for those trying to keep their calorie count low. One of the healthiest breakfast options on the menu is the Steel Cut Oatmeal. Packed with fiber, this dish is ideal for maintaining digestive health and keeping you full until lunchtime. It’s often served with toppings like almonds and fruit, adding natural sweetness and crunch.
The Chicken Noodle Soup is a classic option that’s both light and satisfying. Made with whole-grain noodles and lean chicken, it’s a great choice for those trying to keep their calorie count low.
Soups are a comforting and nutritious choice, especially during colder months. Panera offers several low-calorie options that don’t skimp on flavor.
This salad is a fantastic vegan option that incorporates quinoa for added protein and texture. It’s topped with cucumbers, olives, and a light dressing for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Panera also allows for a high degree of customization. You can modify almost any dish to accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences, such as opting for a whole-grain bread or skipping the cheese. This flexibility makes it easier to stick to your health goals while enjoying a meal out.
While Panera has some gluten-conscious options, it’s not a certified gluten-free facility. Cross-contamination is possible.
The Ten Vegetable Soup is the healthiest option, as it’s low in calories and packed with nutrients.
Another thing that makes Panera a standout is its transparency. The menu includes detailed nutritional information for every item, helping you make informed decisions based on your dietary needs. Whether you're watching your calorie intake, reducing sodium, or increasing protein, the data is readily available.
Here are some tips for staying on track while dining at Panera:
Many of Panera’s drinks are high in sugar, but there are healthier options available. Unsweetened iced tea, black coffee, and water are great choices. You can also customize your drink by reducing the sugar or opting for almond milk.
Panera Bread has made a commitment to using “clean” ingredients, meaning their menu items are free from artificial preservatives, sweeteners, flavors, and colors derived from artificial sources. This ensures that you're consuming food that's as close to its natural state as possible.
The Mediterranean Grain Bowl is another protein-packed option. It’s made with a base of quinoa and brown rice and topped with grilled chicken, hummus, and fresh vegetables. The dish is flavorful and filling, making it a great choice for those with a bigger appetite.
Absolutely. Panera’s customizable menu allows you to build a vegan bowl with ingredients like quinoa, fresh vegetables, and plant-based proteins. Don’t forget to skip the cheese and choose a vegan-friendly dressing!
The whole-grain bread options, like sprouted grain rolls, are the healthiest choices.
Panera’s whole-grain bagels are a great breakfast or snack option. Pair them with almond butter or avocado for a nutrient-dense meal that keeps you energized.
Ask for dressings and sauces on the side, and avoid items like soups and sandwiches with high sodium content.