In a large pot over medium heat, sauté garlic, carrots, onion, and celery with butter and oil until the onions soften.
Whisk together half and half and flour in a small bowl. Add this mixture to the pot along with chicken broth. Stir well.
Season the soup with black pepper, Italian seasoning, sweet paprika, nutmeg, red pepper flakes, and salt. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, uncover the pot and add the chicken, parmesan, parsley, red pepper flakes, basil, and gnocchi. Let the gnocchi cook for 6 to 9 minutes until soft.
Finally, add spinach, taste the soup, adjust seasoning if needed, and remove from heat. Optionally, garnish with more parmesan, chopped parsley, and cooked bacon.
Get ready to savor every spoonful of this homemade goodness!