Panera Bread prides itself on being one of the healthiest fast food restaurants in America. They have one of the most diverse menus that is constantly growing and are most famously recognized for their bread bowls and you-pick-two option. 

Whether you’re stopping for breakfast, lunch or dinner, Panera never disappoints. That’s why it’s my favorite place to stop for a quick meal. But, not all meals are created equally; while some of Panera’s options are good, others are state of the art (for a chain restaurant). And, since I’ve tried almost every choice on the menu, you don’t have to. Here are the top eight Panera Bread menu items ranked by taste.

8.Chicken Caesar Salad 

Coming in at number eight is the chicken caesar salad. This salad is great if you are looking for something light. The lettuce is always fresh and you can ask for extra dressing if needed. However, this is a traditional meal and a boring choice among the plethora of other meals and salads available. 

7.Bacon Turkey Bravo Sandwich

The Bacon Turkey Bravo is solid and will surely fill you up. The sandwich is built on tomato basil bread. Its turkey, bacon, lettuce, and cheese are complemented with tomato and a signature sauce. Essentially, the sandwich is a level up from the classic sandwich that you might make at home. It always is made from fresh ingredients, tastes fresh, and is guaranteed satisfy your hunger.

6.Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl

The teriyaki chicken and broccoli bowl is something you might not expect to find on the Panera menu. The bowl contains cilantro lime brown rice and quinoa, teriyaki chicken, broccoli, and sesame seeds, and it’s topped off with a teriyaki glaze at the end. Whenever I’ve ordered this dish, it has always come out warm and delicious. However, chicken teriyaki is not Panera’s specialty, and there is room for improvement on the flavor scale. 

5.Steel Cut Oatmeal with Strawberries & Pecans 

If you happen to be at a Panera for breakfast (before 10:30), you should give the steel cut oatmeal with strawberries and pecans a try. This option is among the healthier breakfast options and will give you a great start to the day. The strawberries, pecans, and cinnamon complement each other perfectly, keeping your breakfast fresh and flavorful.

4.Mac and Cheese

It’s difficult to mess up mac and cheese, but personally, I think Panera goes the extra mile with theirs. The cheese sauce is flavorful and creamy and it supplements the perfectly cooked shell noodles to create the perfect dish. You can either eat this as a meal, choose it as a side, or even order it in one of Panera’s famous bread bowls; whichever choice you make, Panera’s delicious  mac and cheese will leave you satisfied.

3. Toasted Frontega Chicken 

If you’re looking for the perfect lunch, the toasted frontega chicken sandwich has you covered. This panini includes smoked pulled chicken, tomatoes, onions, mozzarella, and chipotle sauce on black pepper focaccia. Even though the ingredients are simple, Panera gets them right every time. This is a reliable choice and remains one of the favorites on Panera’s menu.

2. Chicken Noodle Soup

Once again, Panera hits the spot with classic comfort food. Simple ingredients and traditional flavors make a delicious meal every time. Paired with a salad, sandwich, or baguette, you can’t ever go wrong with Panera’s chicken noodle soup.

1.Green Passion Fruit Smoothie 

And finally, I present to you the best Panera menu item of all: the green passion fruit smoothie. This seems like an odd choice, but don’t knock it till you try it. Even though it’s green, it’s absolutely delicious. Once you get past its look, this smoothie is sweet and filling. It will leave you feeling energized for the rest of the day.

 

** This post DOES NOT include new Panera Bread menu items as of January 2023 **