Introduction
White BBQ Chicken Subs are a deliciously unique twist on the classic barbecue chicken sandwich. Instead of the traditional tomato-based barbecue sauce, these subs are made with a creamy white barbecue sauce that blends tangy, savory flavors with a hint of sweetness. The tender, juicy chicken is perfectly seasoned and paired with fresh toppings, all piled high on a soft sub roll for a satisfying meal.
I first made these subs when I was looking for a fun variation of the classic BBQ chicken sandwich, and they turned out to be a big hit. The white barbecue sauce adds such a creamy, rich flavor that perfectly complements the tender chicken. You can customize the toppings to your liking—whether you go with crispy bacon, crunchy pickles, or a handful of fresh greens, it’s all about making it your own.
Whether you’re grilling for a summer picnic or making a quick dinner at home, these subs are sure to become a family favorite. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for satisfying everyone at the table.
Perfect for:
- Quick weeknight dinners
- Grilling season
- Casual family gatherings
- Sandwich lovers
- Barbecue fans
Why You’ll Love This White BBQ Chicken Subs
Here’s why White BBQ Chicken Subs will become your new go-to sandwich:
- Tender, Juicy Chicken: The chicken is marinated and cooked to perfection, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
- Creamy White BBQ Sauce: The white BBQ sauce gives these subs a unique twist, offering a creamy and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Customizable Toppings: You can add your favorite toppings, like pickles, onions, or lettuce, to make the sandwich your own.
- Filling and Satisfying: The combination of chicken, sauce, and toppings on a hearty sub roll makes these sandwiches both filling and delicious.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 subs
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400-500 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 18g
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your White BBQ Chicken Subs:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup white barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 sub rolls (soft, hearty rolls)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tomato, sliced
- ½ cup pickles (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- White BBQ Sauce: This unique sauce is made with mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, and spices, giving it a creamy and tangy flavor that complements the chicken.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this recipe as they cook quickly and absorb flavors well.
- Sub Rolls: Use soft, sturdy sub rolls that can hold all the filling without falling apart.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make White BBQ Chicken Subs:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the Chicken: Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the Chicken: Drizzle olive oil on the grill or skillet and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Prepare the White BBQ Sauce:
- Make the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the white BBQ sauce by mixing together mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more vinegar for tang or more mustard for flavor.
- Toss the Chicken: Once the chicken is sliced, toss it in the white BBQ sauce until the chicken is well-coated.
Assemble the Subs:
- Toast the Sub Rolls: Lightly toast the sub rolls in the oven or on a grill for a few minutes until they’re golden brown.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread a bit more white BBQ sauce on the bottom half of each sub roll. Layer the sliced, sauced chicken on top. Add shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, red onion, and pickles (if using). Top with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
Serve:
- Serve Immediately: Close the sandwiches and serve immediately while they’re warm and fresh.
How to Serve White BBQ Chicken Subs
White BBQ Chicken Subs are perfect for serving in a variety of ways:
- As a Quick Dinner: These subs make a great weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
- With Fries or Chips: Serve alongside a side of fries, chips, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.
- At a BBQ or Picnic: These sandwiches are perfect for casual outdoor gatherings like barbecues or picnics.
- For Meal Prep: Make these subs ahead of time and store the chicken and sauce separately. Assemble the sandwiches fresh when ready to serve.
Additional Tips for White BBQ Chicken Subs
Here are some tips to ensure your White BBQ Chicken Subs are perfect every time:
- Grill or Sear the Chicken: For extra flavor, grill the chicken breasts on an outdoor grill or sear them in a skillet for a nice caramelized crust.
- Customize the Toppings: Add extra toppings like avocado, cheese, or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
- Use Homemade White BBQ Sauce: If you have time, homemade white BBQ sauce can elevate the flavor and allow you to adjust the ingredients to your taste.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked through but not overdone to maintain its juiciness and tenderness.
- Toast the Sub Rolls: Toasting the rolls adds an extra layer of flavor and keeps the bread from getting soggy.
Recipe Variations for White BBQ Chicken Subs
Here are 10 variations you can try for this recipe:
- Spicy White BBQ Chicken Subs: Add a tablespoon of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the white BBQ sauce for a spicy kick.
- Pulled Chicken White BBQ Subs: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker, more rustic version of the sandwich.
- BBQ Chicken Subs with Bacon: Add crispy bacon strips for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
- Grilled Veggie White BBQ Chicken Subs: Top the chicken with grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian twist.
- Cheesy BBQ Chicken Subs: Add melted cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella to the subs for a cheesy variation.
- Crispy Fried Chicken White BBQ Subs: Swap grilled chicken for crispy fried chicken for a crunchy, indulgent version.
- White BBQ Chicken Subs with Coleslaw: Add a generous scoop of tangy coleslaw to the subs for added texture and flavor.
- BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Subs: Add grilled pineapple slices for a sweet, tropical twist.
- White BBQ Chicken Wraps: Swap the sub rolls for tortillas and turn the filling into a wrap for a different take.
- BBQ Chicken Subs with Ranch: Mix ranch dressing into the white BBQ sauce for a creamy and herby flavor.
Freezing and Storage for White BBQ Chicken Subs
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken (with or without the sauce) for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in a skillet or microwave.
- Storage: Leftover assembled sandwiches can be wrapped and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The bread may soften, so it’s best to eat them fresh.
Special Equipment for White BBQ Chicken Subs
Here are some special equipment items to make preparing this recipe easier:
- Grill or Skillet: A grill or non-stick skillet is essential for cooking the chicken to perfection.
- Basting Brush: Use a basting brush to coat the chicken with the white BBQ sauce for even coverage.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements when preparing the BBQ sauce.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the chicken and preparing fresh toppings.
- Sub Roll Pan or Tray: For assembling and serving the subs easily.
Frequently Asked Questions for White BBQ Chicken Subs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option. - Can I make the white BBQ sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the white BBQ sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. - Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. - How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or finely chopped jalapeños to the sauce for extra heat. - Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce instead of white BBQ sauce?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite barbecue sauce, though it will change the flavor profile of the subs.
White BBQ Chicken Subs
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
White BBQ Chicken Subs are a deliciously unique twist on the classic barbecue chicken sandwich. Instead of the traditional tomato-based barbecue sauce, these subs are made with a creamy white barbecue sauce that blends tangy, savory flavors with a hint of sweetness. The tender, juicy chicken is perfectly seasoned and paired with fresh toppings, all piled high on a soft sub roll for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re grilling for a summer picnic or making a quick dinner at home, these subs are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup white barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 sub rolls (soft, hearty rolls)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tomato, sliced
- ½ cup pickles (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- White BBQ Sauce: This unique sauce is made with mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, and spices, giving it a creamy and tangy flavor that complements the chicken.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this recipe as they cook quickly and absorb flavors well.
- Sub Rolls: Use soft, sturdy sub rolls that can hold all the filling without falling apart.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the Chicken: Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the Chicken: Drizzle olive oil on the grill or skillet and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Prepare the White BBQ Sauce:
- Make the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the white BBQ sauce by mixing together mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more vinegar for tang or more mustard for flavor.
- Toss the Chicken: Once the chicken is sliced, toss it in the white BBQ sauce until the chicken is well-coated.
Assemble the Subs:
- Toast the Sub Rolls: Lightly toast the sub rolls in the oven or on a grill for a few minutes until they’re golden brown.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread a bit more white BBQ sauce on the bottom half of each sub roll. Layer the sliced, sauced chicken on top. Add shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, red onion, and pickles (if using). Top with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
Serve:
- Serve Immediately: Close the sandwiches and serve immediately while they’re warm and fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 400-500 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 30g
Conclusion
White BBQ Chicken Subs are a flavorful, easy-to-make sandwich that combines creamy white BBQ sauce with juicy chicken and fresh toppings. Whether you’re grilling, cooking on a weeknight, or planning a casual gathering, these subs are guaranteed to satisfy. With endless customization options, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone!
This recipe is as simple as it is delicious, making it perfect for everything from busy weeknight dinners to weekend get-togethers. Whether you’re serving them to friends or enjoying them with your family, these White BBQ Chicken Subs are a tasty and fun meal everyone will love.
I’d love to see how your White BBQ Chicken Subs turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!