In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the onion, celery, and garlic until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3 tablespoons butter, 1 medium white onion, 1 stalk celery, 3 cloves garlic
Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to combine with the veggies. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3 tablespoons flour
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Slowly add the half-and-half, whisking continuously to ensure smoothness.
4 cups chicken broth, 3 cup half-and-half
Add the cooked chicken, carrots, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld, for about 10 minutes.
2 cups chicken breasts, 1 cup carrots, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes, Salt and pepper
Add the gnocchi to the pot and let them cook according to package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
16 oz potato gnocchi
Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt for about 1-2 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
2 cups fresh spinach
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. This soup pairs well with crusty bread or homemade garlic bread!