Chicken Bog is a classic Southern dish, particularly popular in South Carolina, combining tender chicken, smoky sausage, and perfectly cooked rice in a flavorful, one-pot meal. It gets its name from the fact that the rice is “bogged down” in the rich broth, making it moist and flavorful. This dish is hearty and comforting, with the savory flavors of the chicken and sausage infusing the rice, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether served for a family dinner or a casual gathering, Chicken Bog is sure to please with its rustic and homey appeal.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cut into pieces
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups long-grain rice
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the chicken pieces, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. Remove the chicken, let it cool, and shred the meat, discarding the bones and skin.
- Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables:
- In the same pot, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Add the Rice and Broth:
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot along with the rice, bay leaf, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Pour in 4-5 cups of the reserved chicken broth, ensuring the rice is fully submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf, fluff the rice with a fork, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Chicken Bog is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together the richness of chicken and sausage with the perfect texture of rice. This hearty Southern classic is ideal for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
