Imagine biting into a soft, toasted sub roll filled with juicy chicken, melted cheese, and the tangy, creamy kick of Alabama-style white BBQ sauce. These White BBQ Chicken Subs are the perfect blend of smoky, savory, and zesty flavors, all wrapped up in a sandwich that's quick, easy, and utterly satisfying.

The first time I tried white BBQ sauce, it was love at first bite. Its tangy richness pairs so perfectly with chicken that it inspired this sub recipe. Now, it’s a go-to for weeknight dinners, game days, and backyard gatherings.

Why You'll Love This White BBQ Chicken Subs Recipe

These White BBQ Chicken Subs are guaranteed to win over your taste buds and your schedule! Here’s why:

Quick and Convenient: Ready in just 25 minutes, these subs are perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast but don’t want to sacrifice flavor.
Incredible Flavor: The white BBQ sauce is a game-changer. Tangy, creamy, and just a little spicy, it turns simple shredded chicken into something extraordinary.
Customizable: Whether you’re adding bacon, swapping in turkey, or using different cheeses, these subs are versatile enough to suit everyone’s preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for serving at casual gatherings or tailgate parties, these sandwiches are hearty, satisfying, and always a hit.

Ingredients Notes

To make these White BBQ Chicken Subs, you'll need a few key ingredients that deliver big flavor with minimal effort.

Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly here. The smoky flavor of grilled chicken complements the tangy BBQ sauce beautifully.
White BBQ Sauce: This Alabama classic is made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, horseradish, and a touch of cayenne pepper. It’s creamy with a tangy kick.
Sub Rolls: Soft, sturdy rolls like hoagie buns or French bread are ideal for holding all that delicious filling.
Cheese: Provolone or mozzarella melts smoothly and adds just the right amount of creaminess. For a spicier kick, use pepper jack.
Toppings: Fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickles add crunch and a touch of acidity to balance the rich flavors.

No special equipment is required—just a skillet for heating the chicken and a baking sheet for toasting the subs.

How To Make White BBQ Chicken Subs

Making these White BBQ Chicken Subs is quick and straightforward. Follow these steps for the perfect sandwich:

Step 1: Prepare the White BBQ Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon horseradish
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then set aside.

Step 2: Heat the Chicken

Place 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add ¼ cup of the prepared white BBQ sauce and stir until the chicken is coated and warmed through.

Step 3: Toast the Rolls

Preheat your oven to broil. Slice the sub rolls in half and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet. Toast under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them—they toast quickly!

Step 4: Assemble the Subs

On each roll, layer:

A generous portion of the BBQ chicken mixture
2 slices of cheese (Provolone or mozzarella works best)
Return to the broiler for another 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Top the cheesy chicken with fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickles. Drizzle more white BBQ sauce over the top for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately with your favorite sides, like chips, coleslaw, or potato salad.

Storage Options

These subs are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components in advance for quick assembly.

Chicken: Store the BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before assembling the subs.
White BBQ Sauce: The sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week. Keep it in a sealed jar or container.
Assembled Subs: Leftover subs can be wrapped in aluminum foil and reheated in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. While they won’t be as crisp as freshly made, they’ll still be delicious.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Spicy Kick: Add a layer of sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat. Spicy lovers will rejoice!
Protein Swaps: Use shredded pork, turkey, or even grilled shrimp for a fun twist on the classic.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the bread and serve the chicken over a bed of greens or in lettuce wraps for a lighter version.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with roasted cauliflower or jackfruit. Both soak up the white BBQ sauce beautifully.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with smoked gouda, sharp cheddar, or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

Don’t hesitate to get creative—these subs are a blank canvas for your culinary imagination!

These White BBQ Chicken Subs are the ultimate combination of simplicity and bold flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or any time you’re craving something delicious, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Try them tonight, and watch them disappear!