For many years, people looking for quick and healthful meal options have turned to eating healthy at Panera Bread. The restaurant makes it simpler to eat well while on the go by offering a selection of salads, soups, and bowls.
But how can you maximize your time there and select meals that support your health objectives? To help you stay on track, Halal Tummy has created this guide on healthy eating at Panera Bread, including a seven-day meal plan.
Healthy Options at Panera Bread
Fresh and Nutritious Salads
Selecting a salad is one of the best ways to eat healthy at Panera Bread. Fresh greens, lean proteins, and balanced dressings make up their salad selection.
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Green Goddess Cobb Salad
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Mediterranean Veggie Salad
These salads are rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making them filling yet nutritious.
Warm and Filling Soups
Panera’s soups are another wholesome option, especially when paired with a whole-grain side.
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Autumn Squash Soup
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Chicken Tortilla Soup
Pro Tip: Avoid heavy cream-based soups. For balance, try the “You Pick Two” combo (half salad + half soup).
Bowls: Fiber & Protein Power
Panera Bread bowls are perfect for a heartier meal. Options like the 7 day healthy eating plan and Baja Grain Bowl are loaded with fiber, whole grains, and healthy fats — keeping you full and energized all day.
Sandwiches: Better Choices
While sandwiches can be calorie-heavy, smart swaps make them healthier:
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Choose whole-grain/multigrain bread
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Request less cheese & dressing
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Opt for grilled proteins over fried
Healthier picks include:
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Avocado Melt
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Chipotle Chicken
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Toasted Turkey Sandwich
Panera Bread’s 7-Day Healthy Eating Plan
Eating healthy doesn’t have to be difficult. Here’s a simple 7-day Panera-friendly plan:
Day 1
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Breakfast: Steel Cut Oatmeal + Fresh Fruit
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Lunch: Mediterranean Veggie Salad + Tomato Basil Soup
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Dinner: Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken
Day 2
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Breakfast: Avocado Toast (Whole Grain)
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Lunch: Green Goddess Cobb Salad + Apple
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Dinner: Baja Grain Bowl with Steak
Day 3
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Breakfast: Greek Yogurt with Honey & Almonds
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Lunch: Turkey Chili + Whole Grain Roll
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Dinner: Toasted Chicken Avocado Melt
Day 4
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Breakfast: Spinach, Bacon & Egg White Wrap
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Lunch: Chicken Caesar Salad (light dressing)
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Dinner: You Pick Two (Veggie Soup + Half Sandwich)
Day 5
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Breakfast: Protein Smoothie
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Lunch: Chicken Cobb Salad (light dressing)
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Dinner: Baja Grain Bowl with Grilled Chicken
Day 6
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Breakfast: Whole Wheat Bagel + Light Cream Cheese
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Lunch: Green Goddess Cobb Salad + Broccoli Cheddar Soup
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Dinner: Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Day 7
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Breakfast: Egg White & Avocado Wrap
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Lunch: Mediterranean Veggie Salad + Hummus
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Dinner: Grilled Chicken Sandwich (Multigrain Bread) + Apple
Crucial Advice for Eating Healthy at Panera Bread
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Choose Grilled Proteins – Skip fried options.
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Watch Dressings & Sauces – Request them on the side.
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Pick Whole Grains – Go for multigrain bread & bowls.
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Add Extra Veggies – Boost fiber and nutrients.
Balance Taste & Nutrition at Panera Bread
Dining out can be tricky, but Panera makes it easier to balance taste and health.
✅ Order dressings on the side.
✅ Choose lighter sides (fruit cups, apples, whole-grain rolls).
✅ Skip calorie-heavy bakery treats if staying strict.
Customizing Your Meals
One of the best parts of Panera is customization:
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Swap fried for grilled chicken
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Choose whole-grain bread
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Check Panera’s nutrition info online before ordering
This makes sticking to dietary needs simple without sacrificing taste.
Conclusion
Knowing what to order makes it simple to eat healthy at Panera Bread. From fresh salads to hearty bowls and lighter sandwiches, the menu offers plenty of balanced options.
With the 7-day healthy eating plan, you can stay on track with your health goals while still enjoying delicious meals. At Halal Tummy, we believe healthy eating should always be satisfying!
FAQs About Eating Healthy at Panera Bread
1. Can I eat healthy at Panera Bread?
Yes! Panera offers salads, soups, bowls, and other nutritious options.
2. What are some good breakfast options?
Try Steel Cut Oatmeal with fruit or the Spinach, Bacon, & Egg White Wrap.
3. How do I make a healthier sandwich?
Opt for whole-grain bread, grilled proteins, and lighter sauces.
4. Can I follow a 7-day healthy eating plan at Panera?
Absolutely! With balanced choices from their menu, it’s easy to plan a full week.
