Chicken Bog: A Taste of Tradition in Myrtle Beach

If you've never heard of chicken bog, you’re not alone—but you're missing out on one of the most cherished, yet understated, dishes in the Myrtle Beach area. Whether served as a side, a main course, or the highlight of a community event, chicken bog is a meal that carries history, tradition, and a strong sense of southern pride.

What is Chicken Bog?

Chicken bog is a savory, comforting dish made from three key ingredients: chicken, rice, and sausage. While that sounds simple, the magic lies in how it's prepared. Generations of home cooks, especially in Horry County (where Myrtle Beach is located), have turned this humble trio of ingredients into something that warms the soul. Recipes are typically passed down through families, and the best ones are often closely guarded secrets.

But what really sets chicken bog apart from other Southern staples like meatloaf or BBQ? It’s the deep cultural roots and the role it plays in bringing people together. Think of it as not just a dish, but an experience—especially if you're lucky enough to find yourself at one of the local events where it's the star of the table.

A Personal Discovery

I first learned that chicken bog wasn’t universally known during a conversation with our family minister in the early '80s. Raised in Myrtle Beach, I had assumed chicken bog was as common as pizza or fried chicken. It shocked me when he revealed that outside of our corner of South Carolina, the dish was virtually unknown.

That revelation stuck with me. Over the years, I've traveled far and wide, and while I've sampled countless local delicacies, none quite compares to the nostalgia and comfort of a good chicken bog. Around here, you won’t typically find it on restaurant menus—though there are a few exceptions—but it's a staple at church gatherings, political events, and family reunions.

Chicken Bog at Community Events

In Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas, chicken bog is a dish that frequently appears at local events. One of the most notable occasions is the Galivants Ferry Stump Meeting, where political candidates gather to speak, and chicken bog is served as the main course. Since the late 1800s, this biannual event has been a local institution, and no political fundraiser or church event in Horry County feels complete without a pot of chicken bog on the table.

And let’s not forget the Loris Bog-Off, an annual festival that draws in crowds from all over to celebrate this iconic dish. If you're in the area during fall, this is the place to be for chicken bog lovers.

Where to Find Chicken Bog in Myrtle Beach

While chicken bog is often a homemade dish, there are still a few local spots where you can grab a plate.

• Big D’s BBQ Trough in Conway, affectionately known as "The Trough," is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Their buffet includes chicken bog as a side, but it often steals the show. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or a political event, their chicken bog is guaranteed to please. Their BBQ and fried chicken are also excellent, but nothing beats the combination of chicken bog and southern-style slaw. Here is their online invitation to you: Our buffet is all you can eat! We have been in the BBQ business since 1972. Our recipes have been gathered over generations from our family with strong roots in the south and its tradition of barbeque and soul food. Bring the whole family and experience our down home cookin’ for yourself. You'll never forget your first time! You'll be back for more.

• Simply Southern Smokehouse in Myrtle Beach is another gem. Known for its down-home cooking, this spot offers chicken bog as a side, along with a variety of other Southern favorites. While you're there, be sure to look for one of Myrtle Beach’s local legends, Isaac Collington Jr. Isaac's energy, gospel singing, and incredible life story have made him a beloved figure in the community. He’s worked as a busboy for over 40 years and continues to inspire both locals and tourists with his positivity and story of triumph.

The Local Legend of Isaac Collington Jr.

Isaac isn’t just a part of the Simply Southern Smokehouse experience—he’s an essential part of the Myrtle Beach hospitality scene. Having overcome struggles with addiction and embraced a life of faith and service, Isaac has touched countless lives. Visitors to the restaurant often plan their vacations around the nights he works, eager to meet the man who combines table-clearing with balloon-sculpting and gospel-singing.

His story has spread far beyond Myrtle Beach, thanks to social media. Over the years, posts showcasing Isaac’s joyful spirit, infectious "Woo Woo" catchphrase, and dedication to his job have garnered him a loyal following. In 2017, Isaac was named the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce’s Hospitality Employee of the Year, a testament to the impact he’s had on both locals and visitors alike.

Discovering Chicken Bog for Yourself

If you’ve never tried chicken bog, now’s your chance. Whether you experience it at a local event like the Loris Bog-Off or find it at one of the few restaurants serving it, you’ll be treated to a taste of Myrtle Beach history. And while recipes can now be found online (though some locals might cringe at the idea), nothing beats the real thing—especially when made by a beloved community member or a family cook who’s been perfecting it for generations.

So, on your next trip to Myrtle Beach, take some time to track down this quintessential local dish. You'll be joining generations of Horry County residents in savoring a true taste of Southern hospitality.