Chicken Man’s Fowl Tips: The Story of Wade Boggs

When it comes to the world of baseball, few names resonate as strongly as Wade Boggs. But beyond his prowess on the field, there’s a lesser-known side to Boggs that’s equally fascinating: his love for chicken.

In this article, we’ll explore the “Chicken Man’s” fowl tips, exploring his superstitions, and his culinary adventures, and even sharing a delightful summer recipe that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.

The Superstitious Side of Wade Boggs

Wade Boggs, the iconic Red Sox hitter, wasn’t just known for his batting skills. He was also famous for his superstitions.

In “Believing in Magic: The Psychology of Superstition” by Stuart A. Vyse, Boggs’ pregame rituals are described in detail. These rites took him a whopping five hours to complete.

Whether it was the order he batted in or where he stood, Boggs was indifferent. But one thing was certain: he had to eat chicken, run his wind sprints at exactly 7:17 p.m. before every night game, and make the sign of the Chai.

The Birth of the “Chicketarian”

Boggs believed that consuming chicken enhanced his performance on the field. This belief was so strong that he consumed chicken daily for over two decades, dubbing himself a “chicketarian.”

His love for chicken garnered attention from poultry magnate Frank Perdue, who sent Boggs a six-month supply of chickens. However, this supply lasted Boggs only a month.

It’s even said that for every three autograph requests Boggs received, one was a chicken recipe. But being the superstitious man he was, Boggs only tried new recipes during the offseason to avoid any potential jinx.

This chicken-centric lifestyle earned him the nickname “Chicken Man,” and in 1984, he released a cookbook titled “Fowl Tips: My Favorite Chicken Recipes,” featuring illustrations by his father, Winn Boggs.

Fowl Tips: A Culinary Adventure

“Fowl Tips: My Favorite Chicken Recipes” isn’t just a cookbook; it’s a testament to Boggs’ love for chicken. Filled with delightful illustrations by his father, the book offers readers a glimpse into the Chicken Man’s culinary world.

From simple grilled recipes to more intricate dishes, Boggs showcases his mastery over the art of cooking chicken.

Grilled Lemon Chicken: A Summer Delight

As summer approaches, what could be better than a refreshing grilled chicken recipe? Here’s a recipe from Boggs’ cookbook that’s perfect for those warm evenings:

• Ingredients:
  • 2-3 pounds chicken (whole)
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dry mustard
  • A few grains of cayenne pepper
  • ½ cup lemon juice
  • ¼ cup hot water
  • A few drops of Tabasco sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fresh onion – grated
  • Rotisserie (optional)
• Directions:
  1. Melt butter in a saucepan. Add the lemon juice and mix well.
  2. Stir in the paprika, sugar, salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper using a fork. Slowly add the ¼ cup water and stir again. Finish by adding the Tabasco sauce and mixing well.
  3. If using a rotisserie, place the chicken on it. Brush the lemon mixture over the chicken before and during cooking.
  4. Cook the chicken for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes.

The Legacy of the Chicken Man

Wade Boggs will always be remembered as one of baseball’s greats. But his legacy extends beyond the diamond.

His love for chicken, his superstitions, and his culinary adventures have cemented his place as a unique figure in the world of sports. The “Chicken Man” may have retired from baseball after the 1999 season, but his influence lives on.

Whether it’s through his cookbook, the countless chicken recipes he’s inspired, or the tales of his superstitions, Boggs’ fowl tips continue to captivate fans and food enthusiasts alike.

FAQ

Why did Wade Boggs choose chicken as his pre-game meal?

While the exact reason remains a personal preference of Boggs, many believe that he found the chicken to be a light yet protein-rich option that gave him the energy he needed without feeling too heavy during the game.

Are there other athletes known for their unique pre-game rituals?

Yes, many athletes have their own pre-game rituals. For instance, basketball player Michael Jordan wore his college shorts under his NBA uniform for good luck, and tennis star Serena Williams bounced the ball five times before her first serve.

Where can I buy “Fowl Tips: My Favorite Chicken Recipes”?

While the book was published in 1984, you might still find copies in vintage bookstores, online marketplaces like eBay or Amazon, or in libraries.

Did Wade Boggs have any other superstitions?

Apart from his chicken-eating ritual and running sprints at 7:17 p.m., Boggs was known to write the Hebrew word “Chai” (meaning “life”) in the dirt before batting. He believed it brought him good luck.

How did the baseball community react to Boggs’ chicken superstition?

While some found it amusing and others quirky, many respected Boggs’ dedication to his ritual. It became such a staple of his identity that it was affectionately embraced by fans and players alike.

Are there any other famous chicken recipes from baseball players?

While Boggs might be the most famous “chicken man” in baseball, other players have shared their favorite recipes over the years, though none have published a cookbook like Boggs.