Authentic Southern Chicken Bog

Name: Chicken Bog
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 100 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: South American
Ingredients: 3 pounds of cut into pieces whole chicken meat; 1 pound of sliced smoked sausage; 2 cups of long-grain rice; 1 chopped onion; 1 chopped bell pepper; 3 cloves of minced garlic; 4 cups of homemade or store bought chicken broth; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; 1 teaspoon of salt; 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper; 2 bay leaf

Experience a taste of authentic Southern Chicken Bog recipe. This hearty, flavorful dish combines tender chicken, aromatic rice, and savory spices for a comforting meal.

South American Cuisine

December 18, 2023

Difficulty Medium

Servings 6 people

Preparation 30 mins

Cooking 70 mins

Total 100 mins

Recipe Contents

Ingredients Directions Nutrition Equipments Tips

Ingredients

3 pounds of cut into pieces whole chicken meat
1 pound of sliced smoked sausage
2 cups of long-grain rice
1 chopped onion
1 chopped bell pepper
3 cloves of minced garlic
4 cups of homemade or store bought chicken broth
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
2 bay leaf

Directions

In a large pot, add the chicken pieces and cover with water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until the chicken is cooked.
Take the chicken out of the pot, let it cool, then shred the meat, discarding the bones and skin.
In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
Put the sliced sausage into the pot along with salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and bay leaves. Stir for a few minutes.
Add the uncooked rice to the pot, stirring to mix with the vegetables and sausage.
Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken. Stir to combine everything well.
Bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for about 10 minutes. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1 Chicken Bog

Serves 6

Amount Per Serving

Calories500

% Daily Value*

Protein 35 g70%

Total Fat 25 g32.1%

Sodium 1000 mg43.5%

*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Tips

Use a good-quality, fresh chicken for the best flavor. Free-range or organic chickens often yield a richer taste.
Be cautious not to overcook the rice. It should be fluffy and tender, not mushy. For more, check out our ‘How To Cook Fluffy Rice?’ article.
You can use homemade or store bought chicken broth. Using homemade chicken broth can elevate the flavor, but store-bought broth works well for convenience.
Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference. The dish should have a little warmth but not be overly spicy.
Smoked sausage adds depth to the dish. Andouille sausage can also be a great choice for an extra kick of flavor.
Chop the onion and bell pepper into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Allow the dish to rest after cooking. This helps the flavors to settle and the rice to absorb any remaining liquid.
Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness just before serving.

Rate This Recipe

Dive into the heart of Southern cuisine with this traditional Chicken Bog recipe. A beloved dish from South Carolina, Chicken Bog is a savory, soulful mix of rice, chicken, and sausage, simmered to perfection with rich spices and flavors. It’s more than just a meal; it’s comfort in a bowl, bringing together friends and family over a dish that's steeped in tradition and homestyle goodness.

Equipment for this recipe

Measuring Cup

Mixing Bowls

Cutting Board

Chef Knife

Origin of The Chicken Bog

Chicken Bog, a staple in Southern cooking, particularly in South Carolina, has a rich history that adds to its charm. The dish is believed to have originated in the Lowcountry, a region known for its unique culinary traditions influenced by African, French, and Spanish cuisines. The name 'bog' comes from the dish's characteristic consistency, which is somewhere between a soup and a pilaf – moist and boggish, yet not too wet or dry.

Traditionally, Chicken Bog was a communal meal, prepared in large quantities and meant to be shared at gatherings, family reunions, and community events. It symbolizes more than just a meal; it's about bringing people together. The dish's simplicity, requiring just one pot, made it popular for large outdoor cookouts and remains a favored choice for feeding a crowd. The combination of chicken, rice, and sausage, slow-cooked to perfection, provided a hearty and filling meal that was both economical and delicious.

Over the years, Chicken Bog has seen numerous variations, with each cook adding their personal touch. Some add a variety of spices and vegetables, while others stick to the basic, traditional recipe. It's a versatile dish that allows for creativity but always stays true to its comforting, home-cooked roots. Chicken Bog continues to be a beloved dish in Southern cuisine, cherished for its rich flavors, simplicity, and the sense of community it brings to the table.

How To Serve Chicken Bog?

Serving Chicken Bog properly enhances its homely and comforting appeal. Here are some tips on how to serve this hearty Southern dish:

Serve Chicken Bog in a large, shallow dish or a family-style serving bowl to showcase its hearty and rustic nature. Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top for a burst of color and freshness. This not only adds to the presentation but also introduces a fresh element to the dish.

Serving Chicken Bog is all about comfort and simplicity, reflecting its humble roots and the warmth of Southern hospitality. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

What To Serve with Chicken Bog?

Chicken Bog pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a side of collard greens, coleslaw, or a simple garden salad to add some greens to your meal. Cornbread or biscuits are also great for soaking up any extra juices.

Complement Chicken Bog with sweet iced tea, lemonade, or a light beer for a true Southern dining experience. For dessert, you can serve with a slice of pecan pie or peach cobbler to round off the meal.

Here are our delicious recipes that you can serve with Chicken Bog:

How To Store Chicken Bog?

Storing Chicken Bog properly is essential to maintain its flavor and ensure it remains safe to eat. Here’s how to store this hearty dish:

Refrigerating Chicken Bog:

Allow the Chicken Bog to cool to room temperature before storing. However, don’t leave it out for more than two hours to avoid bacterial growth.
Transfer the Chicken Bog into airtight containers. This helps to retain moisture and flavor and prevents the rice from drying out.
Store the containers in the refrigerator. Properly stored, Chicken Bog can last for 3 to 4 days.

Freezing Chicken Bog:

If you have a larger batch, you can freeze Chicken Bog. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Consider dividing it into individual portions before freezing. This way, you can thaw only as much as you need for future meals.
When stored in the freezer, Chicken Bog can last for up to 3 months.
Label the containers with the date of storage. This helps keep track of how long it has been stored and ensures you use it within an optimal timeframe.

Thawing and Reheating:

Thaw frozen Chicken Bog in the refrigerator overnight. For quicker thawing, you can use the microwave, but ensure even heating.
Reheat Chicken Bog in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a little water or chicken broth to moisten the rice. You can also reheat it in the microwave. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Storage Tips:

Avoid Repeated Reheating: Reheat only the amount of Chicken Bog you plan to consume. Repeated reheating can affect the taste and texture, and it’s not recommended for food safety reasons.
Stir While Reheating: Stir the dish occasionally while reheating to ensure even warmth throughout.

Recipe byPetite Gourmets