Chicken Bog: South Carolina's Iconic Southern Staple and Loris Bog-Off Festival Star
Each year, over 35,000 enthusiasts gather in Horry County—home to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina—to celebrate Chicken Bog, a beloved dish with roots tracing back centuries.
Simple to prepare, hearty as a standalone meal, and ideal for feeding crowds, Chicken Bog remains a cornerstone of Southern cuisine.
Recipes vary, incorporating fresh onions, green peppers, or distinctive spices, but all agree on the essentials: tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory sausage.
At the renowned Loris Bog-Off Festival, expert chefs and home cooks compete for the Bog-Off Champion title with their personal twists. While many adhere to tradition, they credit an extra dash of love for what sets their version apart.
Now in its 42nd year, the festival took place on October 16, 2021, featuring a children's area, over 200 vendors, a car and tractor show, and live entertainment on two stages. Admission is free—don't miss out!
Ready to try Chicken Bog at home? Here's a time-honored recipe from the Loris Chamber of Commerce:
Chicken Bog
Ingredients:
6 cups water
1 Tbsp salt
1 onion, chopped
1 (3-pound) whole chicken
1 cup long-grain white rice
1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
2 Tbsp Italian-style herb seasoning
2 chicken bouillon cubes
Instructions: Place water, salt, and onion in a large pot. Add chicken and bring to a boil; simmer until tender, about 1 hour. Remove chicken, cool, then debone and chop meat into bite-sized pieces. Skim fat from broth and measure 3 1/2 cups into a 6-quart saucepan. Add rice, chicken, sausage, seasoning, and bouillon. Boil, then simmer covered for 30 minutes. If too liquidy, uncover and cook over medium-low heat, stirring often, until desired consistency.
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