There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a White BBQ Chicken Sub. Juicy chicken coated in a creamy, tangy white barbecue sauce is piled high onto toasted rolls and topped with crisp, fresh veggies. It's the ultimate combination of smoky, savory, and refreshing flavors.

This recipe became a household favorite when I was looking for a quick way to upgrade a standard chicken sandwich. With just a few tweaks, it turned into a show-stopping meal that's now a go-to for family dinners and casual gatherings. Ready to learn how to make your new favorite sandwich?

Why You'll Love This White BBQ Chicken Subs Recipe

Get ready to discover your next meal obsession. These White BBQ Chicken Subs are packed with flavor and easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.

First, the sauce is the star of the show. Made with mayo, vinegar, mustard, and a touch of sweetness, it brings a tangy kick that perfectly complements the smoky chicken.

Next, these subs are incredibly versatile. You can load them up with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, or pickled onions, making them customizable for even the pickiest eaters.

If you’re short on time, you’ll love how quickly this meal comes together. From start to finish, you can have these mouthwatering sandwiches on the table in under 30 minutes.

Not to mention, they’re perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch of the chicken and sauce, then enjoy delicious subs all week long.

Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these White BBQ Chicken Subs is in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one works together to create a sandwich that’s anything but ordinary.

The chicken is the heart of the recipe. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work beautifully here. If you have leftover grilled or roasted chicken, this is a great way to repurpose it.

The white barbecue sauce is what sets this sub apart. It’s a blend of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of sugar. For a bit of heat, add a dash of horseradish or hot sauce.

A toasted sub roll makes the perfect base. Choose rolls with a sturdy crust to hold up to the saucy chicken. A quick toasting step adds a delightful crunch and helps prevent sogginess.

Fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and red onion add a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken. Don’t forget the pickles for a tangy bite.

For a smoky flavor, a grill pan or outdoor grill is ideal, but a regular skillet works just as well for cooking the chicken.

How To Make This White BBQ Chicken Subs Recipe

Making these White BBQ Chicken Subs is a breeze, and the payoff is a sandwich you’ll want to make again and again. Let me guide you through it step by step.

Start by preparing the chicken. If you’re using raw chicken, season it generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of paprika for a smoky flavor. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of oil, and cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side.

While the chicken cooks, mix up the white barbecue sauce. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste—add more vinegar for tang, or a touch more sugar for balance.

Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or shredding it. Toss the chicken in the white barbecue sauce until it’s evenly coated.

Toast your sub rolls in the same pan for a minute or two until they’re golden and crisp. This step not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the bread from getting soggy once you add the chicken.

Assemble your subs by layering the saucy chicken onto the toasted rolls. Top with shredded lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, and pickles. Serve immediately and watch them disappear!

From start to finish, you’re looking at about 30 minutes, making this recipe ideal for even the busiest nights.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s rare!), store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the toppings and bread separate to prevent sogginess.

Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling your subs. If you prefer the sauce cold, you can add fresh sauce to the reheated chicken for a flavor boost.

For freezing, skip the toppings and freeze the sauced chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own.

If you’re not a fan of chicken, try it with pulled pork or grilled shrimp. The white barbecue sauce pairs beautifully with other proteins.

Want a spicier sub? Add more cayenne or stir a bit of sriracha into the sauce. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes on the finished sandwich works too.

For a gluten-free option, swap the sub rolls for your favorite gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps.

Looking to add a smoky twist? Brush the chicken with a bit of liquid smoke or smoked paprika before grilling.

Don’t have time to make the sauce? Store-bought white barbecue sauce works in a pinch, though homemade is always best.

These White BBQ Chicken Subs are so easy to customize that you’ll never get bored. Try different combinations of toppings and flavors to find your favorite version!