These Easy White BBQ Chicken Subs are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is coated in a creamy white BBQ sauce, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
It’s hard not to smile while munching on these delicious subs. I love topping mine with crunchy pickles for that extra zing. Trust me, you’ll be going back for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is great for this recipe. You could use thighs for more flavor and juiciness, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
White BBQ Sauce: This sauce gives the subs their unique taste! If you can’t find white BBQ sauce, mix regular BBQ sauce with mayonnaise to create a similar flavor.
Cheese: I usually go with mozzarella for its meltiness, but Monterey Jack adds a nice kick, too! Feel free to try other cheeses like cheddar if you want a sharper taste.
Sub Rolls: Soft sub rolls work best, but you can swap them for whole grain bread or even lettuce wraps if you’re looking for a low-carb option.
How Do I Make the Chicken Flavorful?
To make juicy chicken breasts, seasoning is key! Here’s how you can maximize flavor:
- First, rub the spice mixture on both sides of the chicken. This helps the spices seep in during cooking.
- Cook on medium-high heat; the high temperature will give a nice sear and lock in juices.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it moist. Slicing too soon lets the juices escape.
Easy White BBQ Chicken Subs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Sandwiches:
- 4 sub sandwich rolls, split
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
For the White BBQ Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce (white BBQ sauce if available)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for sauce)
For the Toppings:
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
- Optional: sliced pickles or coleslaw for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30-35 minutes. You’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken subs ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Cooking Surface:
Start by preheating a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. This will give your chicken a nice sear!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. This adds fantastic flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Drizzle olive oil into the hot pan and add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are fully cooked (no pink inside). Once done, remove from heat, let them rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly into strips.
4. Make the White BBQ Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder until smooth. This creamy white BBQ sauce will add a unique twist to your subs!
5. Toast the Sub Rolls:
Lightly toast the sub rolls on the grill or in the oven until golden and crispy. This adds a nice texture to your subs.
6. Assemble the Subs:
Take each toasted sub roll and layer in sliced chicken. Drizzle a generous amount of the white BBQ sauce over the chicken.
7. Add Cheese and Onions:
Sprinkle shredded cheese and thinly sliced red onions on top of the chicken and sauce. The cheese will melt beautifully!
8. Optional Toppings:
If desired, add sliced pickles or coleslaw for extra crunch and flavor.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish each sub with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately while warm, and enjoy your delicious Easy White BBQ Chicken Subs!
FAQ for Easy White BBQ Chicken Subs
Can I Use Grilled or Rotisserie Chicken Instead?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked grilled or rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the white BBQ sauce before assembling your subs.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover subs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them from drying out.
Can I Make the White BBQ Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The white BBQ sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in the fridge in a sealed container; give it a good stir before using.
What Else Can I Add to the Subs?
Feel free to customize your subs! Add toppings like sliced jalapeños for heat, lettuce for crunch, or even avocado for creaminess in addition to the suggested toppings.
