There's something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, hearty sandwich that overflows with juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and all the fixings. These White BBQ Chicken Subs deliver that experience in every bite, perfect for lunch or dinner any day of the week.
I remember first trying this unique white barbecue sauce at a small roadside eatery during a road trip. Its tangy, savory, and peppery flavors paired so well with grilled chicken that I knew I had to recreate it. Now, this dish has become a staple in my household, loved by both kids and adults.
Get ready to take your sandwich game to the next level.
Why You'll Love This White BBQ Chicken Subs
Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to sandwich recipe. These White BBQ Chicken Subs are packed with flavors and come together quickly, making them ideal for weeknights.
First, the white barbecue sauce is a refreshing twist on traditional red BBQ sauce. Made with creamy mayonnaise, tangy vinegar, and a generous dash of black pepper, it gives the chicken a bold and unforgettable flavor.
Not only are these subs delicious, but they are also easy to make. From start to finish, you’ll need just 30 minutes, which is perfect for those busy evenings when time is tight.
You'll also love how versatile this recipe is. Serve these subs as a meal on their own, or pair them with a crisp salad or a side of fries. Plus, you can customize the toppings to suit everyone's preferences, making these subs a crowd-pleaser.
The toasted sub rolls complete the package, adding a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender chicken and creamy sauce. Trust me, these will become a family favorite in no time!
Ingredients Notes

The magic of these White BBQ Chicken Subs lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. Every component works together to create a mouthwatering sandwich experience.
The chicken is the star of the show. For the juiciest results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay tender and flavorful during cooking, but if you prefer leaner meat, you can use chicken breasts instead.
The white barbecue sauce is what makes these subs truly special. It’s a mix of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, mustard, and a kick of black pepper. Make sure to use fresh ground black pepper for the best flavor and a bit of heat. If you like a touch of smokiness, you can add a small pinch of smoked paprika.
Sub rolls are the perfect vessel for these sandwiches. I like to use soft hoagie rolls or baguettes that are toasted until golden. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the tender interior adds an extra layer of texture.
For toppings, I love using sliced tomatoes and crisp lettuce to add freshness. You can also include thinly sliced red onions for a bit of sharpness, or pickles for a tangy crunch that complements the sauce.
You'll need a large skillet to cook the chicken and a small bowl for mixing the sauce. If you have a grill pan, you can use it to give the chicken an extra charred flavor.
How To Make These White BBQ Chicken Subs

Making these subs is straightforward and satisfying. Let's walk through the steps to get these on your dinner table.
Start by preparing the white barbecue sauce. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, mustard, honey, black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Stir well until the ingredients are fully blended, and set aside. The sauce will have a creamy, tangy flavor with a peppery kick that’s simply irresistible.
Next, season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the underside is golden brown. Flip the chicken and continue cooking until fully cooked through and juices run clear, about 4-5 more minutes.
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips. While the chicken rests, you can toast your sub rolls. Cut the rolls in half and place them in the skillet, cut side down, until they're golden and slightly crispy.
Now it’s time to assemble the subs. Spread a generous amount of white barbecue sauce on both sides of each toasted roll. Add the sliced chicken, layering it evenly. Top with lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and any other toppings you prefer, like sliced red onions or pickles.
Press the sandwich together gently, slice in half if desired, and serve immediately. The combination of warm chicken, tangy sauce, and crunchy veggies is pure comfort food.
These White BBQ Chicken Subs should take you about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish, making them a fantastic option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers, you’re in luck! These subs can be stored and reheated with ease.
Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the white barbecue sauce separate, also refrigerated, in a sealed jar or container. The sauce will stay fresh for up to a week.
To reheat the chicken, use a skillet over medium heat. This method will help retain the chicken's moisture and prevent it from drying out. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overheat, as the chicken may become rubbery.
If you’ve prepped extra sub rolls, keep them in a bread bag or a zip-top bag at room temperature. To re-crisp them, simply toast them in a skillet before assembling the subs.
Variations and Substitutions
These White BBQ Chicken Subs are incredibly adaptable, and there are plenty of ways to make them your own.
For a lighter version, swap out the mayonnaise in the sauce for a low-fat or avocado-based mayo. You can also use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner protein option.
If you’re craving more spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the white barbecue sauce. You can also include sliced jalapeños as a topping for an extra kick.
Want to add more vegetables? Sautéed bell peppers or caramelized onions would be a delicious addition. You can also swap the lettuce for arugula to bring a peppery bite to your subs.
For a gluten-free option, serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of lettuce or use your favorite gluten-free sub rolls. The flavors will still shine through beautifully.
Feel free to get creative with your toppings and experiment with different flavors. These subs are the perfect canvas for your culinary imagination!
PrintWhite Bbq Chicken Subs Recipe
This White BBQ Chicken Subs recipe features tender grilled chicken breast slathered in a tangy, creamy white barbecue sauce. It’s the perfect blend of smoky, zesty, and savory flavors, served on toasted sub rolls with crisp lettuce and fresh tomatoes. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a weekend cookout!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
- 4 sub rolls, toasted
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.
- In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, and horseradish. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Coat the grilled chicken generously with the white BBQ sauce.
- Slice the sub rolls and toast them lightly on the grill.
- Assemble the subs by layering lettuce and tomato slices, then add the saucy chicken on top.
- Serve immediately with extra white BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and a pinch of salt for 30 minutes before grilling.
- The white BBQ sauce can be made a day ahead and refrigerated for deeper flavor.
- Customize your subs by adding pickles, sliced onions, or shredded cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sub
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 980mg
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