Panera Bread Calories and Nutrition: A Comprehensive Guide

Panera Bread has become a popular destination for wholesome meals, offering a wide range of soups, salads, sandwiches, and bakery items. While Panera is known for its fresh and high-quality ingredients, understanding the calories and nutritional content of their menu can help you make healthier choices. Whether you're counting calories, watching carbs, or aiming for a protein-packed meal, this guide has everything you need to know.

Popular Panera Menu Items and Their Nutrition Facts

Here’s a breakdown of some favorite Panera menu items and their calorie and nutrition information:
Salads

1. Green Goddess Cobb Salad with Chicken

Calories: 530
Protein: 42g | Carbs: 28g | Fat: 33g

2. Caesar Salad with Chicken

Calories: 470
Protein: 33g | Carbs: 26g | Fat: 26g

3. Fuji Apple Salad with Chicken

Calories: 560
Protein: 30g | Carbs: 41g | Fat: 29g

Sandwiches

1. Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt

Calories: 860
Protein: 45g | Carbs: 78g | Fat: 43g

2. Tuna Salad Sandwich

Calories: 740
Protein: 34g | Carbs: 54g | Fat: 40g

3. Roasted Turkey & Avocado BLT

Calories: 750
Protein: 40g | Carbs: 58g | Fat: 38g

Soups

1. Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Cup)

Calories: 230
Protein: 9g | Carbs: 17g | Fat: 15g

2. Chicken Noodle Soup (Cup)

Calories: 120
Protein: 9g | Carbs: 13g | Fat: 3.5g

How to Make Healthier Choices at Panera Bread

Panera’s menu offers something for everyone, but it’s easy to exceed your calorie goals if you’re not careful. Follow these tips for a balanced meal:

1. Opt for Half Portions: Panera allows you to customize your order, like choosing a half sandwich or salad to save calories.
2. Skip the Sides: While bread, chips, or an apple are tempting, skipping them can reduce your calorie intake significantly.
3. Focus on Protein: Look for meals with high protein content to stay fuller longer.
4. Customize Your Order: Remove calorie-dense toppings like cheese or creamy dressings, or swap for lighter options like balsamic vinaigrette.

Healthy Meal Ideas at Panera Bread

If you’re watching your calorie intake, try these meal combos:

1. Half Caesar Salad with Chicken + Cup of Chicken Noodle Soup
Calories: ~350
2. Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich + Seasonal Greens Salad (Half Portions)
Calories: ~420
3. Bowl of Ten Vegetable Soup + Apple Side
Calories: ~300

Panera Bread Nutrition Highlights

High Protein Options: Many sandwiches and salads include high-protein ingredients like chicken, turkey, or eggs.

Whole Grains: Panera offers whole-grain breads that provide more fiber and nutrients compared to refined options.

Vegetarian Choices: Panera has a variety of plant-based soups, salads, and sandwiches to suit vegetarian diets.

Conclusion

Panera Bread offers a variety of meals that can fit into a balanced diet. Whether you’re grabbing a quick soup and salad or indulging in a sandwich, understanding the calorie and nutritional content of their menu allows you to make smarter choices. Use this guide to enjoy Panera Bread while staying aligned with your health goals.