These Easy White BBQ Chicken Subs are a tasty twist on your classic sandwich! Tender chicken is coated in a creamy white BBQ sauce, making it juicy and full of flavor.
These subs are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. I love piling on some crunchy veggies for extra color and crunch. It’s so easy, you might just have a new favorite meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and shred. If you’re looking for a quicker option, rotisserie chicken works great too! Just use about 2-3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken instead.
Mayonnaise: This gives the sauce a creamy texture. For a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for creamy richness while reducing calories. It also adds a bit of tang!
Barbecue Sauce: A creamy white BBQ sauce is traditional here, but if you can’t find it, any mild BBQ sauce will do. I personally love using honey BBQ for a touch of sweetness.
Cheese: Mozzarella and provolone melt beautifully. If you want a different flavor, try cheddar or pepper jack for a little kick.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?
Cooking chicken so it’s tender and juicy is key to a good sandwich. Follow these steps:
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken; this helps get a nice sear.
- Cook on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes on each side; avoid flipping too soon!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before shredding. This helps keep the juices inside.
With these tips, you’ll end up with perfectly cooked chicken every time!
Easy White BBQ Chicken Subs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the White BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (white BBQ sauce or a mild creamy variation)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
For the Subs:
- 4 sandwich sub rolls
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- Fresh or dried parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 5-7 minutes to bake. You’ll enjoy delicious, cheesy subs ready in less than half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for when your subs are assembled.
2. Make the White BBQ Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is smoothly mixed. This will be your delicious sauce!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until it’s fully cooked and golden brown. Once done, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes to retain the juices.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should come apart easily after resting!
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the white BBQ sauce until it’s all nicely coated. This makes your chicken tender and flavorful!
6. Prepare the Subs:
Take the sub rolls and slice them lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. You want them to open like a book, ready to be filled.
7. Fill the Rolls:
Divide the sauced chicken among the sub rolls, filling them generously. Top the chicken with shredded cheese, making sure it’s evenly spread.
8. Bake the Subs:
Place the filled subs on a baking tray and pop them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the rolls are light golden and slightly toasted.
9. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh or dried parsley on top for a little color. Now, serve your hot, creamy, and flavorful white BBQ chicken subs, and enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Cooked Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken, you can use about 2-3 cups of shredded chicken. Just mix it with the white BBQ sauce and follow the remaining steps for assembly and baking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Any leftover subs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the sub in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through, but be mindful that the bread may get a bit crusty.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the white BBQ sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before using.
What If I Don’t Have Sub Rolls?
No problem! You can use any type of bread, like hoagie rolls, hamburger buns, or even a pita. Just be sure to adjust the filling accordingly for smaller bread sizes!
