Cocky Leekie Soup

5 from 1 vote

cocky leekie soup recipe is a traditional Scottish dish known for its comforting and rich flavors. It combines leeks, chicken, and vegetables, with optional prunes to add a touch of sweetness. The soup is perfect for colder days, offering a hearty, nutritious meal that can easily be made in under an hour.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 1 5

Servings: 6 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: Scottish, British

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter or oil
3 large leeks cleaned and sliced thinly, using only the white and light green parts
1 medium onion finely chopped
2 garlic cloves minced
1 chicken breast or thigh boneless and skinless, or use leftover cooked chicken
4 cups chicken stock homemade or store-bought
2 large carrots sliced thinly
2 celery stalks chopped
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
6 pitted prunes optional, but recommended for a traditional touch
Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Knife and chopping board
Wooden spoon
Slotted spoon (for removing chicken)
Forks (for shredding chicken)
Measuring cups and spoons

Method

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the butter or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the leeks, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add Chicken and Stock: Add the chicken pieces (raw or cooked), then pour in the chicken stock. Stir in the carrots, celery, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Simmer: Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. If you’re using leftover chicken, just heat it through.
Add Prunes (Optional): Add the prunes and continue to simmer for 5 minutes. This will give the soup a sweet, unique flavor.
Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir well.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or thyme if necessary.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or oatcakes.

Notes

Prunes: While traditional, prunes are optional. They add sweetness to balance the savory flavor of the chicken and leeks. You can skip them if you prefer a purely savory soup.
Chicken Options: You can use either raw chicken or leftover cooked chicken in this recipe. For extra flavor, bone-in chicken can be used and shredded after cooking.
Freezing: Cocky Leekie Soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Reheat when ready to enjoy.