There's nothing quite like the smoky, tangy goodness of White BBQ Chicken Subs to elevate an ordinary lunch or dinner into something unforgettable. The creamy, zesty sauce pairs perfectly with tender, juicy chicken, all nestled in a crusty, toasted sub roll. These sandwiches strike the perfect balance of savory and indulgent.

I first discovered white barbecue sauce during a family trip to Alabama, and it was love at first bite. Over the years, I’ve adapted it into this sandwich recipe that’s now a staple in our home, perfect for quick meals or casual gatherings. Let’s dive in and see why these subs deserve a spot on your table.

Why You’ll Love This White BBQ Chicken Subs Recipe

Get ready to savor the ultimate blend of flavors in a sandwich that’s anything but ordinary. These White BBQ Chicken Subs are sure to become a family favorite.

First, they’re incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Ideal for those nights when you’re short on time but still want a hearty, satisfying meal.

The star of the show is the homemade white barbecue sauce. Creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy, it’s a flavor explosion that sets this recipe apart from traditional BBQ sandwiches.

These subs are also endlessly versatile. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or grilling fresh breasts, you can adapt the recipe to suit your preferences. Plus, they’re perfect for feeding a crowd or packing up for a picnic.

Best of all, they deliver a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen. Serve them with a side of chips or coleslaw, and you’ve got a meal that feels special without the hefty price tag.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these White BBQ Chicken Subs lies in the simplicity of their ingredients. Each one contributes to the bold, tangy, and satisfying flavor.

Chicken is the base of these subs. You can use grilled chicken breasts, rotisserie chicken, or even leftover roasted chicken. Whatever you choose, aim for tender, juicy pieces that soak up the sauce beautifully.

Mayonnaise forms the base of the white barbecue sauce. Its creamy texture is key to achieving the rich, velvety consistency that coats the chicken perfectly.

Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy kick to the sauce, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise with just the right amount of acidity.

Horseradish brings a subtle heat and a distinctive bite to the sauce. If you prefer milder flavors, you can adjust the quantity or substitute with a pinch of mustard powder.

Sub rolls are the perfect vessel for this recipe. Look for rolls with a sturdy crust and soft interior that can hold up to the juicy chicken and sauce without falling apart.

Optional but highly recommended: a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a touch of smoky heat.

For equipment, you’ll need a medium bowl for the sauce, a skillet or grill for the chicken, and a toaster or oven to warm up the rolls.

How to Make White BBQ Chicken Subs

Making these subs is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps to bring this delicious recipe to life.

Start by preparing your chicken. If using fresh chicken breasts, season them lightly with salt and pepper, and cook on a preheated grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let the chicken rest before slicing into thin strips or shredding. If using pre-cooked chicken, simply shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.

While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, horseradish, a pinch of salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. For extra spice, add a dash of cayenne pepper.

Lightly toast the sub rolls in an oven or toaster. This step enhances the texture of the bread and helps it hold up against the juicy filling.

In a large bowl, toss the cooked chicken with the prepared white barbecue sauce until well coated. Be generous with the sauce—it’s the key to making these subs irresistible.

Assemble the subs by layering the sauced chicken onto the toasted rolls. Add toppings like shredded lettuce, thinly sliced onions, or pickles for extra crunch and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect combination of textures and flavors.

Storage Options

While these subs are best enjoyed fresh, you can store the components separately for easy assembly later.

Refrigerate any leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store the white barbecue sauce in a jar or sealed container in the fridge for up to a week.

If you plan to make the subs in advance, toast the rolls just before serving to maintain their texture. You can reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

When reheating, avoid assembling the subs beforehand to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. Instead, keep the components separate until ready to serve.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Here are a few ways you can customize these White BBQ Chicken Subs to suit your preferences:

For a lighter option, swap the mayonnaise in the sauce for Greek yogurt or a combination of yogurt and light mayo. This tweak reduces calories without sacrificing creaminess.

Spice things up by adding diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. It’s a simple way to turn up the heat for spice lovers.

If you’re looking for a smoky twist, use grilled chicken thighs instead of breasts. Their natural juiciness and flavor make them a fantastic choice for this recipe.

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted cauliflower. Both options pair beautifully with the tangy white barbecue sauce.

Experiment with toppings like crispy fried onions, coleslaw, or thinly sliced avocado for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make it your own, these White BBQ Chicken Subs are guaranteed to delight. Try them out and see how quickly they become a household favorite!