Lowcountry Southern Chicken and Rice: Chicken Bog

Chicken Bog is a hearty Southern dish combining chicken, rice, sausage, and spices, simmered to perfection for a flavorful one-pot meal.

You may already know this simple dish as just a Southern Chicken and Rice but here in the Lowcountry, we call it chicken bog or chicken pilau.

Pilau is pronounced like per-lo or pih-lo, it is also sometimes phonetically spelled like purlough and is just another name for the classic Southern-style chicken and rice recipe believed to be descended from the pilaf of ancient Persia.

Just how this recipe arrived from Ancient Persia to the Lowcountry is subject to much debate but people say it came here with the French Huguenots who landed here in about 1690.

 

This one-pot chicken bog is naturally gluten-free. To make sure you have a completely gluten-free chicken and rice recipe be sure to check the product packaging for the sausage you choose. 

What ingredients are in Chicken Bog?

Chicken bog is a simple dish and takes only a few ingredients to produce robust flavors.

• Shredded chicken – I use leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken.
• Smoked Sausage – I use Adelle’s Andouille sausages which are also gluten-free. 
• Bell pepper – red, yellow, or green – use whichever is your favorite or that you have on hand.
• Onion – I use sweet onions like Vidalia but you can also use a brown onion if you prefer.
• Carrot – We use fresh carrot rounds that we quarter, but you can also use frozen carrots. 
• Celery – We enjoy the flavor of the celery, if you do not have a stalk or two of celery, you can omit it without substitution.
• Rice – Do not use quick-cooking rice. You need whole long-grain rice for the recipe. 
• Chicken Stock – I use unsalted chicken cooking stock that is gluten-free. You may use your favorite brand but if you use salted chicken stock, remember to decrease the salt in your overall dish.
• Parsley – I use fresh slat-leaf Italian parsley that has been minced. I stir this in right at the end and enjoy the pop of brightness it gives to the dish. 
• Hot Sauce – optional. Your favorite brand is always the best. 

How do I make Chicken Bog?

All in all, this Gluten-free Chicken pilaf recipe takes just about 45 minutes to complete from start to finish. Twenty-five minutes of that time is the inactive simmer time on the stove. It is totally worth the extra time because the resulting flavors are amazing.

1. Saute the vegetables. Photo 1 below.
2. Brown the rice. Photo 2 below.
3. Add the chicken stock and simmer. Photo 3 below.
4. Stir in the chicken and sausages. Photo 4 below.

Why this Recipe Works

This recipe works due to the harmonious blend of tender chicken, savory sausage, aromatic spices, and rice, creating a comforting and flavorful Southern classic.

1. Tender Chicken: The use of tender chicken adds a succulent and juicy texture, enhancing the overall eating experience.
2. Savory Sausage: The addition of savory sausage imparts richness and depth of flavor, complementing the chicken and rice components.
3. Aromatic Spices: The aromatic spices infuse the dish with a captivating aroma and a balanced flavor profile, making each bite enticing.
4. Rice: The rice acts as a hearty base, absorbing the flavors from the chicken, sausage, and spices, resulting in a satisfying and filling dish.
5. One-Pot Convenience: The one-pot cooking method ensures that flavors meld together, while also simplifying the cooking process and reducing cleanup.
6. Southern Tradition: The combination of these ingredients reflects the traditional Southern culinary heritage, invoking a sense of nostalgia and comfort.

Recipe Tips and Kitchen Tricks

1. Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables, slice sausage, and measure spices before you start cooking to streamline the process.
2. Sausage Selection: Choose a high-quality, flavorful sausage like Andouille for an authentic Southern taste.
3. Layer Flavors: Sauté onions, celery, and garlic after removing the chicken. This builds a flavor base for the dish.
4. Deglaze the Pot: Add a splash of broth or wine to the pot after sautéing vegetables to release flavorful browned bits.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Delight: Skip the meat and use mushrooms or tofu for protein. Load up with veggies like bell peppers, okra, and peas.
2. Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or smoked sausage for a delightful smoky undertone in your dish.
3. Cajun Kick: Amp up the spice with Cajun seasoning and andouille sausage for a zesty Creole-inspired version.
4. Tex-Mex Twist: Add black beans, diced tomatoes, and chili powder for a Tex-Mex fusion of flavors.
5. Mediterranean Fusion: Introduce Mediterranean elements by using Mediterranean spices, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.
6. Wild Rice Extravaganza: Swap white rice for wild rice to create a nuttier, earthier variation of the dish.
7. Spicy Heat: Introduce chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that balances the richness.

Serving Suggestions

1. Cornbread: Serve Chicken Bog with freshly baked cornbread or corn muffins to soak up the flavorful juices.
2. Green Salad: Pair with a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
3. Pickled Delights: Accompany with pickled vegetables like okra, cucumbers, or pickled onions for a tangy contrast.
4. Collard Greens: Serve alongside braised collard greens for a classic Southern duo.

Storing, freezing, and reheating instructions

By following these storage, freezing, and reheating instructions, you can enjoy your Chicken Bog multiple times while maintaining its flavor and texture.

Storing:

1. Allow any leftover Chicken Bog to cool down to room temperature before storing.
2. Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Ensure that the container is suitable for both the fridge and freezer.
3. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

Freezing:

1. To freeze Chicken Bog, portion it into individual servings or in family-sized portions based on your needs.
2. Wrap the portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in airtight freezer bags.
3. Label each package with the date of freezing to keep track of its freshness.
4. Chicken Bog can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Chicken Bog, follow these steps to reheat it:

From the Fridge:

1. If reheating from the refrigerator, transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe dish.
2. Microwave on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until thoroughly heated. This helps prevent uneven heating.

From the Freezer:

1. If reheating from the freezer, thaw the Chicken Bog in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
2. Once thawed, transfer the portion to a microwave-safe dish.
3. Microwave on medium power, using 1-minute intervals and stirring in between, until heated through.

On the Stovetop:

1. For a stovetop reheating method, transfer the thawed Chicken Bog to a pot.
2. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. Add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
3. Once heated through, serve and enjoy.

Oven Reheating:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer the thawed Chicken Bog to an oven-safe dish.
3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
4. Heat in the preheated oven for about 20-30 minutes or until thoroughly heated.

Remember to use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to consume. Reheating times may vary based on portion size and reheating method, so monitor closely to avoid overcooking..

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Chicken Bog? Chicken Bog is a traditional Southern dish made with chicken, sausage, rice, and aromatic spices, simmered together to create a flavorful one-pot meal.

2. Can I use different types of rice? Yes, you can experiment with different rice varieties. However, adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio accordingly based on the type of rice you choose.

3. Can I make Chicken Bog in advance? Yes, Chicken Bog can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

4. How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy? To prevent mushy rice, use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio, avoid over-stirring, and cook the Chicken Bog over low to medium heat.

Wine & Cocktail Pairings

Remember, personal preferences play a significant role in pairings. Feel free to experiment and find the combination that pleases your palate the most.

Wine Pairings:

1. Chardonnay: A buttery and oaked Chardonnay complements the richness of Chicken Bog, while its acidity cuts through the flavors.
2. Pinot Noir: A light to medium-bodied Pinot Noir offers red fruit notes that harmonize with the savory and slightly smoky flavors of Chicken Bog.
3. Zinfandel: A fruity and slightly spicy Zinfandel pairs well with the hearty and flavorful components of the dish, enhancing its taste.

Cocktail Pairings:

1. Southern Sweet Tea: A classic Southern sweet tea complements the comfort of Chicken Bog with its refreshing sweetness.
2. Bloody Mary: The bold flavors of a Bloody Mary, with its tangy tomato base and spice, contrast well with the dish’s richness.
3. Mint Julep: The minty freshness of a Mint Julep balances the savory and hearty elements of Chicken Bog, making for a pleasant pairing.