White BBQ Chicken Subs Recipe

Craving something different from the usual tomato-based BBQ? These White BBQ Chicken Subs offer a refreshing twist on classic barbecue flavors. The tangy, creamy white sauce originated in Alabama and transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary.

This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a zesty white BBQ sauce that’s both creamy and bright. Served on fresh sub rolls with crisp vegetables, these sandwiches deliver comfort food satisfaction with a gourmet twist that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

What is “White BBQ Chicken Subs”?

White BBQ Chicken Subs feature tender chicken breast coated in Alabama’s famous white barbecue sauce, served on toasted sub rolls. Unlike traditional red BBQ sauce, white BBQ sauce is mayonnaise-based with vinegar, creating a tangy, creamy coating that perfectly complements grilled or baked chicken.

The white sauce was invented in the 1920s by Big Bob Gibson in Alabama and has since become a beloved regional specialty. This sandwich brings that distinctive flavor to your kitchen, creating a memorable meal that’s both familiar and exciting.

Ingredients List for White BBQ Chicken Subs

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

For the White BBQ Sauce:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon horseradish (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

For Assembly:

• 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
• 2 cups coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• Dill pickle slices
• Butter for toasting buns

How to Cook White BBQ Chicken Subs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these delicious White BBQ Chicken Subs involves preparing the sauce, cooking the chicken, and assembling everything for maximum flavor. Here’s my detailed guide to ensure perfect results:

1. Prepare the White BBQ Sauce:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice until smooth.
• Add Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic, mixing thoroughly.
• Season with horseradish (if using), salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
• Whisk until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the sauce is creamy.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

2. Season and Prepare the Chicken:

• Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place on a cutting board.
• If breasts are thick, pound them to an even ¾-inch thickness for uniform cooking.
• Drizzle both sides with olive oil and rub to coat evenly.
• In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme.
• Season chicken breasts generously on both sides with the spice mixture.

3. Cook the Chicken:

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Cook chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on the first side without moving them.
• Flip and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
• Slice chicken into ½-inch thick pieces against the grain.

4. Prepare the Vegetables:

• Wash and slice the tomato into ¼-inch rounds.
• Thinly slice the red onion and separate into rings.
• If using fresh cabbage instead of coleslaw mix, shred it finely.
• Arrange all vegetables on a platter for easy assembly.

5. Toast the Sub Rolls:

• Split sub rolls lengthwise and lightly butter the cut sides.
• Toast under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
• Watch carefully to prevent burning.

6. Assemble the Subs:

• Spread a generous amount of white BBQ sauce on both sides of each toasted roll.
• Layer sliced chicken on the bottom half of each roll.
• Add coleslaw mix, tomato slices, red onion rings, and pickle slices.
• Drizzle additional white BBQ sauce over the toppings.
• Close with the top half of the roll and serve immediately.

Substitutions and Variations

I love how versatile this White BBQ Chicken Subs recipe is. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try to customize it to your taste:

• Chicken: Use chicken thighs for juicier meat, or substitute with pulled pork or grilled shrimp for different flavors.
• Bread: Try brioche buns, ciabatta rolls, or even wraps for a different texture experience.
• Sauce Base: Make it lighter by using Greek yogurt mixed with mayonnaise, or go dairy-free with vegan mayonnaise.
• Heat Level: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the white BBQ sauce for extra kick.
• Vegetables: Include avocado slices, sprouts, or grilled bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese: Add provolone, Swiss, or white cheddar for extra richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making White BBQ Chicken Subs, I’ve learned to avoid these common mistakes that can affect the final result:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F but doesn’t dry out from overcooking.
• Not Resting the Chicken: Allow cooked chicken to rest before slicing to prevent juices from running out.
• Making Sauce Too Thin: The sauce should coat the back of a spoon; add more mayonnaise if it’s too thin.
• Skipping the Chill Time: The white BBQ sauce needs time for flavors to develop and meld together.
• Soggy Bread: Toast the rolls to create a barrier that prevents the sauce from making them soggy.

How to Serve White BBQ Chicken Subs

I recommend serving White BBQ Chicken Subs as the centerpiece of a casual meal. They pair beautifully with classic sides like crispy sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad.

For beverages, try sweet tea, lemonade, or a cold beer to complement the tangy flavors. If you’re hosting a party, cut the subs in half and serve as appetizers alongside other barbecue favorites.

Presentation Ideas for White BBQ Chicken Subs

To make your White BBQ Chicken Subs look as appealing as they taste, consider these presentation ideas:

• Rustic Serving: Wrap each sub in parchment paper and secure with kitchen twine for a deli-style presentation.
• Colorful Garnish: Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Side Arrangement: Serve with a small cup of extra white BBQ sauce for dipping and colorful vegetable sticks.
• Platter Style: Cut subs diagonally and arrange on a wooden board with pickles and chips for sharing.

White BBQ Chicken Subs Recipe Tips

Here are my best tips to ensure your White BBQ Chicken Subs turn out perfectly every time:

• Make Sauce Ahead: The white BBQ sauce tastes even better after sitting overnight in the refrigerator.
• Temperature Control: Don’t cook chicken over too high heat, as this can cause the outside to burn before the inside cooks through.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemon juice and garlic for the brightest, most vibrant sauce flavor.
• Quality Mayonnaise: Since mayonnaise is the base of the sauce, use a good-quality brand for best results.
• Proper Storage: Keep the sauce refrigerated and use within one week for food safety and optimal taste.

How to Store White BBQ Chicken Subs

Store leftover components separately for best results. Place cooked chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the white BBQ sauce in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Assembled subs should be eaten immediately, but you can store the prepared chicken with sauce for 2-3 days. When ready to serve, toast fresh rolls and add vegetables just before eating to maintain texture and freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make the white BBQ sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it at least a few hours ahead or even the day before. The flavors improve as they meld together in the refrigerator.

Q: What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
A: White wine vinegar or rice vinegar work as substitutes, though apple cider vinegar provides the most authentic flavor for Alabama-style white BBQ sauce.

Q: Can I use this sauce on other meats?
A: Yes! This white BBQ sauce is delicious on pork, turkey, or even grilled vegetables. It’s particularly good with smoked meats.

Q: How spicy is the white BBQ sauce?
A: The sauce has a mild heat level from the cayenne pepper. You can adjust the spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne to suit your taste.

Q: Can I grill the chicken instead of using a skillet?
A: Definitely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the tangy sauce perfectly. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover chicken?
A: Gently reheat sliced chicken in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.

Conclusion

White BBQ Chicken Subs offer a delightful departure from traditional barbecue flavors, bringing the unique taste of Alabama’s famous white sauce to your dinner table. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a complex, satisfying flavor that’s both tangy and creamy.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and the way the white BBQ sauce transforms ordinary chicken into something special. Whether you’re looking for a new weeknight dinner option or planning a casual gathering with friends, these subs deliver both comfort and excitement in every bite.

I encourage you to experiment with the recipe, adjusting seasonings to match your preferences and trying different variations to make it your own. The white BBQ sauce alone is worth mastering, as it opens up a world of flavor possibilities beyond just these subs. Happy cooking, and enjoy discovering this Southern treasure!