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Cock-a-Leekie

A classic Scottish chicken soup simmered with sliced leeks, rice, and prunes for a sweet and savory finish.

65 minEasyServes 4320 cal/serving

BritishSoupStovetopHigh ProteinGluten-FreeDairy-FreeNut-FreeEgg-FreeSoy-FreeShellfish-FreeSesame-FreeAlcohol-FreeCorn-Free

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Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs, trimmed
  • 6 cups chicken stock
  • 4 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 4 leeks, sliced
  • 1/4 cup white rice, rinsed
  • 1/2 cup pitted prunes, chopped
  • 1 tsp fine salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper, ground

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine 6 cups chicken stock, 2 lbs trimmed chicken thighs, and 4 fresh thyme sprigs in a pot over medium-high heat and bring to a boil.

  2. 2

    Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F, about 25 minutes.

  3. 3

    Transfer chicken to a cutting board, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.

  4. 4

    Stir in 4 sliced leeks, 1/4 cup rinsed white rice, 1/2 cup chopped pitted prunes, 1 tsp fine salt, and 1/2 tsp ground black pepper.

  5. 5

    Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes until leeks are tender and rice is cooked through.

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Questions

What is Cock-a-Leekie?

A classic Scottish chicken soup simmered with sliced leeks, rice, and prunes for a sweet and savory finish. This reference files it under British soup: made on the stovetop, rated easy and about 65 minutes start to finish.

How much time should I plan for Cock-a-Leekie?

As written, 65 minutes: 15 of prep and 50 of cooking. The longest single stretch is step 2 (25 minutes): "Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F, about 25 minutes."

What internal temperature should Cock-a-Leekie reach?

For Cock-a-Leekie, the target internal temperature is 165 F (about 75 C), given in step 2. A probe thermometer removes the guesswork.

Is there a substitute for leeks in Cock-a-Leekie?

The entry for Cock-a-Leekie calls for 4 leeks, sliced. In its place: Yellow onion or the white parts of scallions, cooked gently. Use a little less by volume.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs in Cock-a-Leekie?

Yes, with care. Breasts dry out sooner: pull them at 165 F, which usually means a few minutes less than the thighs would take. As written, the entry for Cock-a-Leekie uses 2 lbs chicken thighs, trimmed.

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