Step 1

Cook the chicken: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven set over medium heat add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil begins to shimmer, add chicken thighs and cover with a lid. Cook on one side for 4 minutes. Remove the lid, flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 4 minutes, or until the thighs are completely cooked. Remove the chicken and place on a cutting board.

Step 2

Cook the vegetables: To the Dutch oven, add the carrots, celery, onion, bay leaves and salt and pepper. Let it sit without stirring for about 8 minutes. You want to develop a little color on those vegetables and some fond (brown stuff) on the bottom of the pan.

Step 3

Deglaze the pan: Add the white wine, thyme and rosemary. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the fond off the bottom of the pan, while the wine reduces. Add the garlic and quartered mushrooms. Stir to combine. Cook everything together for about 5 to 10 minutes, until the carrots are soft and the mushrooms have shrunken in size.

Step 4

Finish the soup: Add the stock and simmer for 15 minutes, giving the flavors a chance to meld. While everything simmers, use two forks to shred the chicken thighs.

Step 5

Add the gnocchi and the shredded chicken to the simmering soup. Cook for 5 minutes until the chicken is warmed through and the gnocchi is cooked. Remove the bay leaves and rosemary sprig. Stir in the spinach, if using until wilted.

Step 6

Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve with crusty bread and a simple salad.