Name: White Bbq Chicken Subs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp prepared horseradish; 2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp mustard powder; Salt to taste; 4 sub rolls, toasted; Lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and red onion, for serving

There's nothing quite like biting into a White BBQ Chicken Sub: juicy, tender chicken smothered in a tangy white BBQ sauce, tucked into a perfectly toasted sub roll. This sandwich is a delicious twist on a classic BBQ chicken, with its creamy, peppery sauce offering an explosion of flavor in every bite.

I first discovered White BBQ Sauce at a small, family-run restaurant, and it was love at first taste. After a few kitchen experiments, I perfected my own version, which has now become a summer BBQ staple in our home, even when we're pressed for time.

Get ready to dig into a sandwich that’s equal parts comforting and crave-worthy. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special.

Why You'll Love This White BBQ Chicken Sub

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to chicken sandwich recipe. This White BBQ Chicken Sub is everything you want in a weeknight meal or backyard cookout option.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. You’ll have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you’re craving something substantial but don't have time for a complicated meal.

The flavor combination is out of this world. The creamy white BBQ sauce, which balances tangy vinegar with just the right kick of heat, transforms simple grilled chicken into a gourmet experience.

Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also highly customizable. Whether you want to add extra veggies or prefer a spicier kick, the recipe adapts effortlessly to your taste.

Best of all, it’s a complete meal. The warm, toasted sub rolls, juicy chicken, and crisp lettuce or slaw make for a balanced dish that satisfies every craving. You’ll love how filling and wholesome it feels with each hearty bite.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this White BBQ Chicken Sub lies in its fresh, straightforward ingredients. Every element plays an essential role in making this sandwich truly unforgettable.

Chicken breasts are the star of this dish. They’re lean, cook quickly, and take on the flavors of the marinade beautifully. If you prefer even more flavor, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs.

The White BBQ Sauce is the heart of the recipe. Made with creamy mayonnaise, a splash of apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of Dijon mustard, it has a smooth texture and a bold, tangy flavor. Don’t skip the cracked black pepper, which adds a peppery bite that sets this sauce apart.

You’ll want sub rolls that are sturdy enough to hold all the delicious fillings without getting soggy. Toast them lightly to add a bit of crunch and help keep the bread from absorbing too much sauce.

For a burst of freshness, crisp lettuce or a tangy coleslaw works wonders. The fresh veggies add a satisfying crunch and balance out the richness of the chicken and sauce.

You’ll also need a few pantry staples, like garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, to season the chicken perfectly. These spices elevate the flavor of the meat and give it a smoky, BBQ-inspired taste.

How To Make This White BBQ Chicken Sub

Making these White BBQ Chicken Subs is a breeze. Here's how to get everything perfect from start to finish.

Start by prepping your chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season them generously on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let them sit for about 10 minutes while you heat your grill or stovetop pan.

Meanwhile, whip up the White BBQ Sauce. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, cracked black pepper, a pinch of salt, and a bit of sugar for balance. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, then set it aside.

Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should be beautifully charred on the outside and juicy on the inside. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

While the chicken rests, toast your sub rolls. You can do this on the grill or under the broiler for just a minute until the edges are golden brown and crisp. Spread a bit of the White BBQ Sauce on each side of the toasted rolls.

Slice the chicken into thin strips and pile it generously onto the bottom half of each sub roll. Drizzle a bit more White BBQ Sauce over the top, then add lettuce or a crunchy slaw to complete the sandwich. Add the top of the sub roll and give it a gentle press to hold everything together.

These sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately, while the chicken is warm and the rolls are still toasty. You’ll love the contrast between the tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crisp vegetables.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this recipe is easy to store and reheat. For the best results, store the cooked chicken separately from the rolls and sauce.

Keep the grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

The White BBQ Sauce can be stored in a sealed jar or container in the fridge for up to 1 week. The flavors may deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious.

Avoid storing assembled sandwiches, as the bread will become soggy. Instead, toast fresh rolls and assemble when you're ready to enjoy.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment and make it your own.

Want to add more flavor to the chicken? Try marinating it in some lemon juice, olive oil, and crushed garlic for 30 minutes before grilling. The added citrus and garlic will make the chicken even more delicious.

If you’re a fan of spice, add a dash of hot sauce to the White BBQ Sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes on the chicken before grilling. This will give your sandwich an extra kick of heat.

For a healthier twist, you can serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of salad greens instead of using sub rolls. It makes a lighter, gluten-free option that’s still packed with flavor.

Try different veggies to change things up. Sliced tomatoes, pickled red onions, or even thinly sliced cucumbers can add a refreshing element to your subs.

Don’t be afraid to get creative. This recipe is all about bold flavors and hearty textures, so feel free to customize it to your liking. Your taste buds will thank you!