There’s nothing quite like the combination of tangy, creamy white barbecue sauce and tender, smoky chicken in a warm, toasted sub. These White BBQ Chicken Subs are a bold twist on a classic sandwich, offering layers of flavor and texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
I first came across the idea of white barbecue sauce on a trip to Alabama, where it’s a regional staple. Pairing it with juicy chicken and fresh toppings tucked into a crusty sub roll makes for a meal that’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This White BBQ Chicken Subs Recipe
Get ready to meet your new go-to sandwich. These subs are easy to make, packed with bold flavors, and versatile enough to please everyone at the table.
First, this recipe is all about speed and simplicity. With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for those hectic evenings.
The white barbecue sauce is the star here, offering a creamy tang with a hint of spice that sets these sandwiches apart. It’s a unique flavor that elevates the dish while still being approachable and crowd-pleasing.
Not only are these subs delicious, but they’re also customizable. Whether you want to add extra toppings, swap the protein, or go vegetarian, the possibilities are endless.
Plus, this recipe uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients, making it as budget-friendly as it is tasty.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of these White BBQ Chicken Subs lies in the balance of simple ingredients that deliver big flavor. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the perfect bite.
The chicken is the foundation of this recipe. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for their quick cooking time and juicy texture. Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor, but you can also use a stovetop skillet or even leftover rotisserie chicken.
The white barbecue sauce is the game-changer here. Made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of horseradish, it’s tangy, creamy, and slightly spicy. Feel free to adjust the horseradish and vinegar to suit your taste.
Sub rolls are key for the perfect sandwich experience. Look for sturdy rolls that can hold up to the sauce and toppings without getting soggy. Toasting the rolls adds a nice crunch and helps prevent the dreaded soggy sandwich.
Optional toppings like shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, pickles, or even crispy bacon take these subs to the next level. Choose your favorites to customize each sandwich.
If you’re grilling the chicken, a trusty grill or grill pan is your best friend for that signature charred flavor. For stovetop cooking, a cast-iron skillet works wonders.
How to Make White BBQ Chicken Subs

Making these subs is easier than you might think. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready to serve.
Start by preparing the white barbecue sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, prepared horseradish, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to taste, then set the sauce aside to let the flavors meld.
While the sauce rests, season your chicken with salt, pepper, and a dash of smoked paprika for added depth. Heat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, turning once. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Toast your sub rolls for a minute or two, either on the grill or in the oven. This step is optional but highly recommended for added texture and flavor.
Assemble the subs by spreading a generous amount of white barbecue sauce on each roll. Layer on the sliced chicken, then add your desired toppings. Finish with a drizzle of extra sauce for good measure.
Serve immediately while the rolls are warm, and the chicken is juicy. The entire process, from prep to plate, takes about 25-30 minutes.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers, store the components separately to maintain their freshness. Keep the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The white barbecue sauce can be stored in a sealed jar or container in the fridge for up to a week.
To reheat the chicken, use a microwave or skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid reheating the assembled subs to prevent soggy bread—build fresh sandwiches when you’re ready to eat.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or thinly sliced steak for a different protein option.
- Go vegetarian by using grilled portobello mushrooms or crispy fried tofu as the main filling.
- Add a spicy kick with sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the barbecue sauce.
- Try different types of bread, like ciabatta or baguette, for a twist on the classic sub roll.
- Experiment with toppings such as avocado, caramelized onions, or shredded cheese for added flavor.
With so many ways to customize this dish, it’s easy to make it your own. Have fun experimenting and enjoy the delicious results!
PrintWhite Bbq Chicken Subs Recipe
This White BBQ Chicken Subs recipe combines tender chicken with a tangy white BBQ sauce, served in a fresh sub roll. Perfect for a quick, flavorful meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Assembling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp prepared horseradish
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 4 sub rolls
- Lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles (for topping)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, horseradish, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to create the white BBQ sauce.
- Toss the shredded chicken in the white BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
- Toast the sub rolls lightly.
- Assemble the subs by layering lettuce, sauced chicken, tomato slices, and pickles.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 10-15 minutes before assembling.
- Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sub
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 670mg
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