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

Cook Time 1

Total Time 1 15

Servings: 4

Course: Healthy Soup, Soups

Cuisine: Scottich

Calories: 290

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

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

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

Method

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.