Panera Bread’s sandwich options can be overwhelming, especially when you’ve found a go-to favorite. However, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut and miss out on some amazing alternatives. In an effort to shake things up, I’ve put together a ranking of Panera’s sandwiches, from decent to exceptional. While no one is perfect (I’m looking at you, deli turkey sandwich!), the majority are fantastic lunch options. Curious if your usual order made the cut? Read on to find out which sandwich reigns supreme!
Toasted Frontega Chicken Sandwich
In a masterclass of contrasting flavors, the toasted Frontega chicken sandwich from Panera Bread strikes the perfect harmony. The smoldering shredded chicken is perfectly complemented by its chipotle mayo counterpart, delivering a bold and spicy kick that’s expertly tempered by the subtle crunch of black pepper focaccia. This unique sandwich shines with the harmonious union of juicy tomatoes, onion, and greens alongside the robust flavors of the chicken and chipotle mayo.
And the pièce de résistance? Panera Bread doesn’t spare any punches when it comes to the filling factor – this is one satisfyingly packed sandwich!
Napa Chicken Salad Sandwich
Panera’s delectable chicken salad is crafted with tender white meat chicken, crunchy celery, juicy red grapes, and toasted almond slivers. A departure from traditional mayo-based recipes, Panera’s signature dressing adds a sweet and tangy twist. This scrumptious salad is so satisfying that it can be enjoyed on its own, sans bread. However, when paired with Panera Bread’s signature sourdough, the result is a match made in heaven – a refreshing light lunch that belies its filling nature.
Bacon Turkey Bravo Sandwich
Indulge in Panera Bread’s Bacon Turkey Bravo for a harmonious deli sandwich experience. The union of their turkey, crispy bacon, and signature sauce elevates the flavors to new heights. A surprise addition of smoked gouda injects an extra layer of creamy richness, while the tomato basil bread provides a subtle sweetness that masterfully balances the smoky and savory notes.
Roasted Turkey and Avocado BLT
Panera’s roasted turkey and avocado BLT is a satisfying sandwich that packs a nutritional punch. The use of roasted turkey strips instead of deli meat evokes Thanksgiving feelings, while the turkey itself is full of flavor. What takes it to new heights are the added avocado, crispy bacon, and fresh greens, which provide a delightful combination of textures. The smooth, creamy avocado and satisfying crunch from the bacon make this sandwich truly stand out.
Overall, Panera has knocked it out of the park with their roasted turkey and avocado BLT.
Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich
When I’m in the mood for a satisfying meal without breaking the calorie bank, my trusty go-to is the Mediterranean veggie sandwich. This beloved Panera Bread classic has earned its reputation as one of the most popular diet-friendly options that defies its healthy status with its incredible flavor profile. The star of the show is a vibrant medley of crisp veggies, including cucumber, pickled onion, red peppers, tomatoes, and leafy greens.
But what truly elevates this dish to new heights are the judicious additions of creamy hummus and salty feta cheese, which beautifully harmonize in a symphony of savory, tangy, and rich notes. And let’s not forget the star-spangled tomato basil bread that serves as the perfect canvas for this delightful combination.
Toasted Steak & White Cheddar Sandwich
Imagine a gourmet take on the classic Philly cheesesteak – a toasted steak and white cheddar sandwich that’s elevated to new heights. This indulgent creation combines savory seared steak with the tanginess of horseradish, the creaminess of melted white cheddar, and the crunch of pickled red onions. The latter addition is nothing short of brilliant, as it cleverly balances out the richness of the ingredients.
Meanwhile, the toasted ciabatta provides a sturdy yet tender base that pairs beautifully with the steak – much like Panera Bread’s own take on this beloved sandwich.
Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt
Slipping into the top three, Panera’s chipotle chicken avocado melt earns a bronze medal with its unique fusion of flavors. This artisanal sandwich seamlessly blends Tex-Mex flair with the richness of a satisfying meal. The tender chicken strips are smothered in a velvety chipotle sauce, tempered by the creaminess of ripe avocado. However, it’s the judicious addition of peppadew peppers that truly sets this sandwich apart.
Their tangy, spicy kick imbues the dish with an added layer of depth and complexity. As the crowning glory, Panera’s focaccia bread provides a delightfully chewy texture, expertly absorbing the savory sauce to create a harmonious union of flavors.
Smokehouse BBQ Chicken Sandwich
In a surprising twist, Panera Bread has managed to master the art of BBQ. Their smokehouse BBQ chicken sandwich is a game-changer, with a flavor profile reminiscent of a local pit stop. The harmonious blend of smoky BBQ, melted cheese, and tangy apple cider BBQ sauce strikes the perfect balance. The generous fillings are so bursting with flavor that even the humble toasted white bread can’t help but elevate the dish.
Yes, it may get a little messy, but that’s all part of the charm – after all, the best sandwiches often require a few extra napkins. It’s no wonder Panera Bread is the go-to spot for this mouthwatering treat.
Signature Take Chicken Sandwich
While Panera Bread’s healthy take on a fried chicken salad shows promise, it ultimately falls short due to mismatched ingredients. The signature chicken sandwich is lacking in crunch compared to its traditional fried counterpart. The garlic aioli and Parmesan crisps are bold flavors, but they overpower the dish. On a positive note, the sweet brioche bun provides a delightful contrast. Unfortunately, the overall combination doesn’t quite hit the mark.
Deli Turkey Sandwich
While the deli turkey sandwich at Panera Bread may seem like a straightforward choice, it’s hard to get excited about its uninspired combination of ingredients. The unremarkable deli turkey, paired with tomato, lettuce, onion, mayo, and mustard, fails to deliver any real wow factor. However, there is one redeeming quality that elevates this sandwich: the sourdough bread.
With a perfect balance of tanginess and a delicate texture that’s both spongy and crispy, it’s the sole bright spot in an otherwise unremarkable meal.
Smoky Buffalo Chicken Melt
The Smoky Buffalo Chicken Melt from Panera Bread is an intriguing creation that prioritizes texture over substance. At first glance, the combination of shredded chicken tossed in smoky buffalo sauce and thinly sliced red onions seems like a winning formula. However, things take a surprising turn when they add a slice of American cheese to the mix. The result is a sandwich where the bread, in this case, a toasted baguette, overshadows the protein.
While not inherently problematic, this imbalance leaves the dish feeling less than satisfying.
Tuna Salad Sandwich
While Panera’s tuna salad sandwich once held a top spot on many menus, its popularity has waned in recent years. One reason for this decline may be the chain’s tendency to overdo it with the mayo – a flavor that while pleasant, can quickly become overpowering. Additionally, portions have been scaled back significantly, leaving some customers feeling a bit shortchanged. However, there is one redeeming quality to this sandwich: the pepper focaccia bread, which is richly buttery and satisfying.
Despite its flaws, the tuna salad sandwich remains a decent option for those looking for a quick and easy bite.
Spicy Take Chicken Sandwich
When it comes to Panera’s chicken sandwich, skip the signature version and opt for the spicy rendition instead. The spicy take may still feature the same seared chicken breast, but the sauce and toppings elevate the dish significantly. The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and crunchy fried pickle chips is a winning combination. Moreover, the slightly sweet brioche bun provides a delightful contrast to the bold flavors.
While some might argue that the garlic aioli adds an extra layer of depth, I recommend holding off on it for now – the sandwich can still shine without it. Overall, Panera’s spicy chicken sandwich is a must-try.
Deli Ham Sandwich
When it comes to cold deli sandwiches for lunch, I’m a big fan of opting for ham over turkey. Panera’s Black Forest Ham is a surprising standout – its salty, smoky flavor is perfectly balanced by a hint of sweetness. A few simple toppings like fresh tomatoes, onion, and mustard add a burst of freshness without overpowering the star of the show: the delicious ham.
I’m particularly fond of pairing this classic combo with Panera’s tangy sourdough bread, which adds a satisfying depth to the sandwich. Overall, Panera Bread is a great destination for a light and satisfying lunch that won’t disappoint.
Pepperoni Mozzarella Melt
Indulge in the savory fusion of pepperoni and melted mozzarella on a crispy baguette. This toasty sandwich embodies the essence of pizza, with salty pepperoni and creamy cheese harmonizing in perfect balance. While it’s true that the bread-to-filling ratio may not be ideal for those who prefer a thin crust, this panini-style delight will undoubtedly satisfy deep-dish enthusiasts. If you’re craving a comforting, satisfying snack, look no further than Panera Bread.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
At the heart of Panera’s menu lies a harmonious marriage between soup and sandwich, specifically grilled cheese. The crispy bread is a perfect complement to the generously applied American cheese, which oozes with each bite. This comforting combination is ideal for dipping into your favorite soup, making it a match made in heaven.
While customization options like bacon, extra cheese, or veggies are available, sometimes simplicity reigns supreme – and Panera’s grilled cheese sandwich is the epitome of straightforward satisfaction.