Chicken & Gnocchi Soup

I LOVE all kinds of soup!!! I have quite the collection of stews, chili and various soup recipes. I'm always on the lookout for an easy soup that comes together perfectly! Especially one that the whole family enjoys and asks for seconds!! This recipe for Chicken & Gnocchi soup is one of my favorites when I'm craving something different. It is a comfort food that blends the yumminess of chicken soup with the chewy taste of a potato dumpling.....so good and quick to make!!!

Chicken & Gnocchi Soup

adapted from CopyKat recipes

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 tablespoons butter

1 cup diced carrots

1 cup diced onion

1/2 cup diced celery

2 teaspoons minced garlic

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 quart half-and-half

2 (14oz.) cans chicken broth

1/2 teaspoon dried Parsley flakes

1/2 teaspoon dried Thyme

salt & pepper, to taste

2 cups diced cooked chicken breast

1-2 cups fresh spinach leaves

1 (16oz.) package gnocchi 

In a large soup pot, melt the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the carrots, onion, celery and garlic and cook; stirring occasionally until the veggies are tender. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Whisk in the half-and-half.  Simmer until thickened.  Whisk in the chicken broth and simmer until thickened again.  Stir in the parsley, thyme, salt, pepper, chicken, spinach and gnocchi. Simmer until the soup is heated through.  

I wish the close up picture of this soup could truly show the belly warming goodness of this recipe.  To up the flavor I like to use shredded rotisserie chicken. In the past I've also added cooked ground Italian sausage.  You can replace some or all of the half-and-half with milk if desired.  Before serving, top each bowl with a small amount of your favorite shredded cheese....such as parmesan or cheddar cheese. Enjoy!

Carissa