Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s also incredibly easy to make? Look no further than this crock pot chicken bog recipe! Chicken bog, a South Carolina staple, is a hearty stew packed with tender chicken, savory sausage, and fluffy rice. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with a delicious and satisfying dinner with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It's one of those healthy meals that feels incredibly indulgent.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced (andouille or kielbasa recommended)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a deeper flavor base for your bog.
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Brown the Chicken (Optional): For extra flavor, you can brown the chicken pieces in the skillet with the onions and garlic. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a nice depth of flavor. If browning, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot: Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic (and browned chicken, if applicable) to your slow cooker. Add the sliced smoked sausage, rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
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Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. Stir halfway through cooking to ensure even distribution of ingredients and prevent sticking.
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Serve: Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve hot. This dish is delicious on its own or with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for the Best Chicken Bog:
- Don't overcook the rice: Overcooked rice can become mushy. Follow the cooking time guidelines closely, and check for doneness before serving.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your liking. You can also add other spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Use good quality sausage: The quality of your sausage will greatly impact the flavor of your chicken bog. Opt for a flavorful smoked sausage like andouille or kielbasa for the best results.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables such as chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with pork, turkey, or even beef.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier bog.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. A general estimate for a serving of chicken bog is around 350-400 calories, with varying amounts of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. For a more precise nutritional analysis, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient quantities.
This easy crock pot chicken bog recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking recipes. It's a delicious dish that's perfect for a comforting family meal, and it’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of Southern cuisine. Enjoy!