There's something irresistibly comforting about biting into a White BBQ Chicken Sub—tender, smoky chicken smothered in a tangy white BBQ sauce, tucked into a soft, toasted roll. The combination of flavors is a bold twist on the classic BBQ sandwich, offering creamy tanginess with a hint of spice.

I discovered this recipe during a backyard barbecue experiment and was hooked from the first bite. It’s now a family favorite, perfect for everything from game days to weeknight dinners. Let’s dive into what makes these subs a must-try meal.
Why You'll Love This White BBQ Chicken Subs Recipe
Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with these White BBQ Chicken Subs. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they're also surprisingly easy to prepare.
First, the creamy Alabama-style white BBQ sauce is a game-changer. With a tangy base of mayo, zippy vinegar, and a touch of spice, it brings a unique twist that pairs perfectly with smoky grilled chicken.
These subs are also incredibly versatile. You can customize the toppings, use different bread, or even swap out the protein to suit your preferences. Whether you're cooking for picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this recipe has you covered.
And don't forget the speed and convenience. Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can cut your prep time in half, making this an excellent option for busy nights or last-minute gatherings.
Finally, they’re just plain fun to eat! Served warm with melty cheese, crisp veggies, and a drizzle of sauce, each bite is a perfect balance of texture and flavor.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its balance of bold flavors and simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make your White BBQ Chicken Subs truly shine.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully. Grill them for a smoky flavor, or use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- White BBQ Sauce: The star of the show, this sauce combines mayo, apple cider vinegar, horseradish, and a touch of cayenne pepper. It’s creamy, tangy, and just a little spicy.
- Bread: Choose soft hoagie rolls or sub buns that can hold up to the juicy filling. Toasting them lightly adds a delicious crunch.
- Cheese: Provolone or mozzarella melt beautifully and complement the tangy sauce without overpowering it.
- Veggies: Sliced pickles and crisp lettuce add freshness and texture, while thinly sliced onions or slaw can be included for extra crunch.
- Optional Additions: Add crispy bacon, jalapeños, or even avocado slices for a personalized twist.
No special equipment is needed for this recipe, but a grill or grill pan will enhance the smoky flavor of the chicken.
How To Make These White BBQ Chicken Subs

Making White BBQ Chicken Subs is as simple as assembling a delicious puzzle. Here’s how to put it all together.
- Prepare the Chicken
Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and a dash of smoked paprika. If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until it’s fully cooked. Alternatively, bake or pan-sear the chicken until golden and juicy. Once done, shred or slice it into bite-sized pieces. - Make the White BBQ Sauce
While the chicken cooks, whisk together 1 cup of mayo, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of prepared horseradish, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. - Toast the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Slice the rolls lengthwise, leaving one side intact, and place them on a baking sheet. Brush the inside with a little melted butter or olive oil, then toast for 5 minutes until warm and slightly crisp. - Assemble the Subs
Layer the shredded chicken onto the toasted rolls, then drizzle generously with white BBQ sauce. Add a slice of provolone or mozzarella cheese on top and return to the oven for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese. - Add Toppings
Finish your subs with sliced pickles, crisp lettuce, and any additional toppings you like. Close the sandwiches and serve immediately.
These subs come together in about 30 minutes, making them a great option when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (though it's unlikely!), you can store the components separately to keep everything fresh.
- Chicken: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or a skillet.
- White BBQ Sauce: The sauce can be refrigerated in a jar or airtight container for up to a week. Stir well before using.
- Bread: Keep rolls in a bread bag or container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
When reheating, assemble the sandwiches as usual and warm them in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to refresh the flavors and texture.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some creative ways to make it your own:
- Protein Swap: Use pulled pork, shredded beef, or even crispy tofu as an alternative to chicken.
- Bread Options: Swap hoagie rolls for ciabatta, brioche buns, or even tortillas to turn these into wraps.
- Spice It Up: Add a splash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce or top with sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Cheese Choices: Try sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, or pepper jack for a bolder flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or jackfruit for a plant-based alternative.
Don't be afraid to experiment! This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious, so feel free to tailor it to suit your tastes.
With their tangy white BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese, these White BBQ Chicken Subs are sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking for a quick dinner idea, this recipe delivers on every front. Give them a try, and prepare to watch them disappear from the table!
PrintWhite Bbq Chicken Subs Recipe
Enjoy these mouthwatering white BBQ chicken subs made with tender chicken, creamy white barbecue sauce, and fresh toppings. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch, this recipe combines tangy flavors with soft, toasted bread to create a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 subs 1x
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Assemble
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4 sub rolls, toasted
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or sliced)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp horseradish sauce
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup sliced pickles
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, horseradish sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to create the white BBQ sauce.
- Toss the cooked chicken in the prepared sauce until evenly coated.
- Layer shredded lettuce and sliced pickles on toasted sub rolls.
- Add the white BBQ-coated chicken to the rolls.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful white BBQ chicken subs!
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust the sauce ingredients to taste for more tang or spice.
- These subs pair well with coleslaw or a side of chips.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sub
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
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