Cocky Leekie Soup Recipe

If ever there were a soup that could flirt with your taste buds while telling a centuries-old story, it’s this one. The cocky leekie soup recipe (yep, that’s how we’re spelling it cheeky, isn’t it?) is a classic Scottish comfort food that proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something soul-warming and unforgettable. Think tender chicken, soft simmered leeks, and a gentle barley base all cooked low and slow until the flavors melt together magically. It’s the savory, steamy cousin of cozy dishes like our Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders, but with tartan vibes.

But here’s the plot twist: prunes. Yes, you heard that right. The cocky leekie soup recipe traditionally includes sweet dried prunes that drop into the broth like little flavor bombs, bringing a whisper of sweetness that balances the hearty chicken base. It’s the same kind of unexpected flavor surprise you’ll find in dishes like our Quick Pastele Stew, where sweet and savory meet, shake hands, and become best friends.

Whether you’re chasing away a cold, prepping for Burns Night, or just in the mood for something that feels like a hot water bottle for your soul, this soup delivers. Pair it with a hunk of crusty bread, a cozy blanket, and follow it up with a slice of Italian Hangover Cake because balance is everything.

Get ready to ladle up a bowl of pure Scottish comfort.
This cocky leekie soup recipe brings tender chicken, sweet leeks, and a cozy barley broth together in one legendary pot.
Yes, there are prunes, and yes, they belong there.
It’s hearty, healing, and perfect for chilly nights or lazy Sundays.
Let’s simmer something soul-warming, shall we?

Cocky Leekie Soup Recipe

A traditional Scottish chicken and leek soup with barley and prunes warm, hearty, and full of old-world flavor that’s perfect for chilly days or family dinners.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Healthy Soup, Soups

Cuisine Scottich

Servings 4

Calories 290 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Large Soup Pot For simmering the soup
• 1 Wooden Spoon To stir occasionally
• 1 Ladle For serving
• 1 Cutting Board To prep veggies
• 1 Knife For slicing chicken and leeks

Ingredients

  

• 1 whole chicken 3-4 lbs, cut into pieces or use thighs
• 2 leeks cleaned and sliced (white and light green parts only)
• 2 quarts water or chicken stock for deeper flavor
• ½ cup barley pearl or Scotch barley
• 10 pitted prunes whole or halved
• 1 tsp salt or to taste
• ½ tsp black pepper freshly ground
• 1 bay leaf optional

Instructions

 

• Place chicken and water (or stock) in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and skim off any foam.
• Add leeks, barley, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Simmer uncovered for 45 minutes.
• Add prunes and continue simmering for another 15–20 minutes, until chicken is fully tender.
• Remove chicken, shred or chop meat, and return to the pot (discard bones).
• Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot with crusty bread or oatcakes.

Notes

For deeper flavor, use homemade chicken stock. Not a prune fan? Sub in chopped dates or skip them though tradition lovers might call that soup blasphemy.

Keyword chicken and leek soup, cocky leekie soup recipe, Scottish soup

Share Your Twist on This Cocky Leekie Soup Recipe!

Did you toss in a smoky ham hock? Add extra barley for stew-like vibes? Or maybe skip the prunes and went full savory mode? However you made it your own, we want to see it!

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