There's nothing quite like biting into a warm, toasty White BBQ Chicken Sub, packed with tender, juicy chicken and slathered in a tangy, creamy white BBQ sauce. The first time I made this recipe, I was inspired by a picnic-style gathering where we needed something quick and satisfying. It's become a staple meal that everyone gets excited about, perfect for weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for something deliciously simple, this recipe will have you serving up a crowd-pleaser in no time.
Why You’ll Love These White BBQ Chicken Subs
Get ready to fall head over heels for these subs. They’re everything you want in a sandwich and more.
First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. From the marinated chicken to the homemade white BBQ sauce, every step is simple and designed for maximum flavor. You can have these subs on the table in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy evenings or when you’re short on time.
The flavors are absolutely irresistible. The white BBQ sauce is creamy, zesty, and slightly spicy, perfectly complementing the grilled or pan-seared chicken. It brings a refreshing twist to classic BBQ that will make your taste buds dance with every bite.
Not only are these subs bursting with flavor, but they’re also highly customizable. You can adjust the toppings and spice level to your liking, making it ideal for family dinners where everyone has their preferences.
Finally, they’re great for meal prep. Make a batch of the chicken and sauce ahead of time, and you’ll have lunch or dinner ready to assemble all week. It’s a meal prep game-changer that will keep your lunches exciting.
Ingredients Notes
The secret to these White BBQ Chicken Subs lies in the perfect balance of flavorful, wholesome ingredients. Let’s break down the key components that make this dish shine.
Chicken
You’ll want to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Chicken breasts give a leaner option, while thighs stay juicier and more tender. Marinating the chicken beforehand is crucial for infusing it with flavor. A simple blend of yogurt, garlic, and spices tenderizes the meat beautifully.
White BBQ Sauce
The star of this dish is the homemade white BBQ sauce. Made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey, it’s tangy, creamy, and slightly sweet. Freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of cayenne add the right amount of kick. You’ll be surprised how quickly this sauce comes together and how much it elevates the subs.
Sub Rolls
Choose soft yet sturdy sub rolls that can hold all the fillings without falling apart. Look for options that have a slightly crusty exterior but a soft, fluffy interior. Lightly toasting them brings out their flavor and gives the perfect crunch.
Fresh Vegetables
Crunchy lettuce, crisp sliced cucumbers, and juicy tomato slices add a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken and sauce. Feel free to add thinly sliced red onions for a bit of sharpness. These veggies not only enhance the flavor but also add a satisfying crunch.
Special Equipment
While no fancy gadgets are required, having a grill pan or a cast-iron skillet will help get a good sear on the chicken. A small mixing bowl for the sauce and a sharp knife for slicing veggies will make your prep work much smoother.
How To Make These White BBQ Chicken Subs
Making these delicious subs is simpler than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting them perfect every time.
Start by marinating your chicken. In a bowl, combine plain yogurt, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated, and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. This quick marinade tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor.
Next, prepare your white BBQ sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, a generous amount of black pepper, and a dash of cayenne. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference. The sauce should be creamy and tangy with a hint of spice.
Heat your grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it heat until it shimmers. Place the marinated chicken on the hot pan, cooking for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and nicely charred. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Once done, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
While the chicken rests, slice your sub rolls in half and toast them lightly on the same pan until golden and crisp. This step adds texture and prevents the bread from getting soggy.
Now it’s time to assemble. Spread a generous layer of the white BBQ sauce on both sides of each roll. Layer with sliced chicken, fresh lettuce, cucumbers, tomato, and red onion. Add another drizzle of sauce on top for extra flavor. Press the sandwich together gently and serve immediately.
These subs take about 30 minutes from start to finish, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual lunches. Each bite is a delightful mix of creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors.
Storage Options
If you’re planning on making these subs ahead of time, you’ll be happy to know they store beautifully.
Store the cooked chicken separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The white BBQ sauce can be kept in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. This way, you can assemble fresh subs whenever you need a quick meal.
To reheat the chicken, place it in a hot skillet for a few minutes until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can dry out the meat. Reheat only as much as you plan to use to maintain the best texture.
Keep your sub rolls and fresh veggies stored separately. The bread can be wrapped and left at room temperature, while the vegetables should be kept in the refrigerator to stay crisp.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking.
For a spicier version, add more cayenne pepper or drizzle on your favorite hot sauce. If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, try adding a touch of liquid smoke to the marinade or sauce.
You can also switch up the protein. Grilled shrimp or even spicy roasted cauliflower make excellent alternatives for a different twist on the subs.
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free sub rolls. You’ll still get the same delicious flavor and texture without any gluten.
For a lower-fat option, use Greek yogurt instead of regular mayonnaise in the white BBQ sauce. It will be tangier but still delicious. Feel free to experiment and find what works best for your preferences.
No matter how you choose to enjoy these White BBQ Chicken Subs, don’t be afraid to get creative and make them your own. Enjoy!
PrintWhite Bbq Chicken Subs Recipe
These White BBQ Chicken Subs are perfect for a flavorful, quick meal. Tender, marinated grilled chicken is smothered in a zesty white BBQ sauce and served on a toasted sub roll. This recipe is packed with flavor and ideal for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 subs 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 sub rolls, toasted
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Remove and let rest.
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, prepared horseradish, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to make the white BBQ sauce.
- Slice the grilled chicken into strips. Toss with a generous amount of the white BBQ sauce.
- Assemble the subs by placing lettuce, tomato slices, and pickle slices on the toasted sub rolls. Add the saucy chicken strips.
- Drizzle extra white BBQ sauce on top if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in some of the BBQ sauce for 30 minutes before grilling.
- You can add additional toppings like sliced onions or shredded cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sub
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
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