Panera Bread Reinvents Dipping with Returning French Ciabatta Dipper and New Chicken Pesto Delight

A Delicious Revival: Ciabatta Dippers Return

On September 10, 2025, Panera Bread is bringing back a cherished item that has made waves in the culinary world—the French Ciabatta Dipper. Known for its flavor and excitement, the French Dipper is returning to menus nationwide, joined by an exciting new entrant: the Chicken Pesto Dipper. Captivating fans of all ages, it’s an announcement that culinary enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating.

The return of the French Ciabatta Dipper is particularly noteworthy. This beloved sandwich combines tender and marinated steak, topped with creamy, melted provolone and asiago cheese, accentuated with a drizzle of garlic aioli. It is designed to be savored alongside a dipping portion of Bistro French Onion Soup, creating a comfort food experience that's simply hard to resist. This pairing resonates deeply with Panera guests who appreciate the blend of sandwiches and soups.

Introducing the New Chicken Pesto Dipper

Equally exciting is the introduction of the Chicken Pesto Dipper. This brand-new offering features grilled chicken, adorned with a melt of provolone and parmesan cheeses, accompanied by a spread of fragrant basil pesto. This delectable delight is served with a side of Creamy Tomato Soup, adding a fresh twist to the familiar dipping ritual that customers have come to cherish.

Mark Shambura, the Chief Marketing Officer at Panera Bread, remarked, "Dipping sandwiches into soup is one of our guests' favorite rituals. We love seeing it come to life in our cafes every day. The French Dipper was a fan favorite when first launched last year, and now our new Chicken Pesto Ciabatta Dipper gives guests another crave-worthy reason to ditch the spoon and embrace the dip!"

These Ciabatta Dippers signal more than just a culinary innovation—they represent a growing trend where customers are encouraged to engage with their food in a playful, enjoyable manner. In a world where convenience is prevalent, Panera makes it simpler for guests to indulge in enjoyable meals focused on interaction, taste, and satisfaction.

Both offerings are perfect for dine-in experiences, delivery, Rapid Pick-Up®, or drive-thru where available. Pricing will vary by location, ensuring that everyone can explore these delicious options when dining out or at home.

The Legacy of Panera Bread

Since its inception in 1987, Panera Bread has excelled in providing delicious meal options with a focus on quality ingredients. The dual Ciabatta Dippers are crafted with great care, embodying Panera’s commitment to offering wholesome foods that families can feel good about enjoying, emphasizing flavors that are beloved across generations. As of July 29, 2025, Panera Bread boasts over 2,200 cafes across 48 states and Washington D.C., along with some locations in Ontario, Canada, establishing itself as a cornerstone of the fast-casual dining category.

For those eager to try the refreshed offerings, Panera encourages guests to place their orders via the Panera Bread app or visit PaneraBread.com. With the return of classic flavors and the introduction of new favorites, the culinary adventure at Panera Bread continues.

Panera Bread commits to filling bellies with satisfying meals while building empowered teams and inspiring communities. As the cooler weather makes its way into our lives, there’s no better time to savor and share warm meals with loved ones through these delightful dipping experiences. Nothing beats the joy of breaking bread together, and Panera’s Ciabatta Dippers are here to enhance that experience.

Conclusion

Seize the moment and indulge in these reimagined classics that bring comfort and joy to every bite. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering Panera for the first time, the Ciabatta Dippers promise to elevate your dining experience this season.