Name: White BBQ Chicken Subs- Easy & Delicious Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup real mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons white vinegar; 1/2 tablespoon freshly cracked white pepper; 1/2 tablespoon Creole mustard; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons sugar; 2 large garlic cloves, pressed or finely minced; 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 14 ounces chicken tenders; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 large shallots, thinly sliced; 1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded

White BBQ Chicken Subs are more than just a sandwich; they’re a culinary embrace, a taste of Southern hospitality in every bite. If you’ve ever found yourself yearning for that perfectly balanced blend of smoky, tangy, and creamy, then you’re in for a treat. This isn’t your average chicken sandwich. What truly sets these White BBQ Chicken Subs apart is the Alabama-style white barbecue sauce, a revelation in itself. Unlike its red counterpart, this sauce boasts a mayonnaise base, brightened with vinegar, a hint of mustard, and a whisper of spice. It clings beautifully to tender, shredded chicken, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that will have you reaching for seconds before you’ve even finished your first. Prepare to discover why this simple yet sensational combination has captured the hearts and appetites of so many, transforming an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup real mayonnaise
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1/2 tablespoon freshly cracked white pepper
1/2 tablespoon Creole mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons sugar
2 large garlic cloves, pressed or finely minced
2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon paprika
14 ounces chicken tenders (about 6-8 tenders)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 large shallots, thinly sliced
1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded

Preparing the White BBQ Sauce

Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, begin by whisking together the real mayonnaise, white vinegar, and fresh lemon juice. This forms the creamy and tangy base of our signature White BBQ sauce. Ensure these ingredients are thoroughly combined before moving on. The acidity from the vinegar and lemon juice will help to emulsify the mayonnaise, creating a smooth consistency.

Step 2: Add Dry Seasonings and Aromatics

Next, incorporate the flavor-building elements into the mayonnaise mixture. Add the freshly cracked white pepper, Creole mustard, salt, sugar, pressed garlic, prepared horseradish, and paprika. Whisk everything together until all the spices are evenly distributed and the sauce is a uniform pale color. Taste the sauce at this stage and adjust seasonings if necessary. If you prefer a bit more tang, add a touch more white vinegar or lemon juice. For a touch of sweetness, a pinch more sugar can be added. The prepared horseradish will offer a subtle kick without overwhelming the other flavors.

Step 3: Allow Flavors to Meld

Once all the sauce ingredients are combined, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This crucial step allows the flavors to meld and deepen. The garlic will become less pungent and more integrated, and the spices will have time to bloom in the creamy base. This resting period is what truly elevates a good sauce to a great one. You can even make the sauce a day in advance, as the flavors will continue to develop beautifully overnight.

Cooking the Chicken and Shallots

Step 4: Sear the Chicken Tenders

Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This is an important step for achieving a good sear and preventing the chicken from steaming. Season the chicken tenders generously on all sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken tenders to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside on a clean plate. You may need to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which would lead to steaming rather than searing.

Step 5: Sauté the Shallots

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium. Add the thinly sliced shallots to the skillet. If there’s any excess oil, you can drain some of it off, leaving just enough to sauté the shallots. Cook the shallots, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are softened, translucent, and just beginning to turn golden brown around the edges. Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor than regular onions, making them ideal for this recipe. They will add a delicate sweetness and depth to the overall flavor profile of your subs.

Assembling the White BBQ Chicken Subs

Step 6: Shred the Chicken and Mix with Sauce

Once the chicken tenders are cooked and slightly cooled, shred them using two forks or your hands. You want them to be in bite-sized pieces. Transfer the shredded chicken to a clean bowl. Pour about half of your prepared White BBQ sauce over the shredded chicken. Gently toss to coat the chicken evenly. You can add more sauce if you prefer a saucier chicken mixture, but be careful not to make it too wet. Reserve the remaining sauce for drizzling on top.

Step 7: Assemble and Melt the Cheese

Preheat your broiler or oven to a medium-high setting. Slice your sub rolls in half lengthwise, but do not cut all the way through, leaving them hinged. You can lightly toast the inside of the rolls under the broiler for a minute or two if you like. Fill each sub roll generously with the sauced shredded chicken and sautéed shallots. Top the chicken and shallot mixture with a liberal amount of the freshly shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and carefully broil or bake for 2-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 8: Final Touches and Serving

Once the cheese is perfectly melted, carefully remove the White BBQ Chicken Subs from the oven. Open each sub slightly and drizzle with additional White BBQ sauce to your liking. You can also add a sprinkle of extra paprika or white pepper for visual appeal and an extra burst of flavor. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy for the ultimate White BBQ Chicken Sub experience. These are fantastic served on their own or with a side of your favorite chips or a light salad.

Conclusion:

And there you have it – your very own delicious and incredibly satisfying White BBQ Chicken Subs! This recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken smothered in a tangy and creamy white BBQ sauce, all nestled in soft sub rolls. It’s a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings; the possibilities are endless! I hope you enjoy making and devouring these White BBQ Chicken Subs as much as I do. Give them a try and experience a delightful twist on traditional barbecue!

For serving, these subs are fantastic on their own, but consider pairing them with a crisp coleslaw, a fresh garden salad, or some seasoned potato wedges for a complete and hearty meal. They also make a great option for picnics and potlucks.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider some fun variations. You could swap the chicken for pulled pork or even shredded turkey. For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the white BBQ sauce or top with pickled jalapeños. Shredded cheddar cheese is another popular addition that melts beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make the white BBQ sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The white BBQ sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, making your subs even more delicious. Simply reheat gently before assembling.

What kind of bread works best for these subs?

While standard sub rolls are ideal for their soft texture and ability to hold all the delicious fillings, you can also use hoagie rolls, French bread sliced lengthwise, or even sturdy brioche buns. The key is a bread that can handle being loaded up without falling apart.

Is it possible to use store-bought white BBQ sauce?

Yes, if you’re short on time, using a good quality store-bought white BBQ sauce is a perfectly acceptable shortcut. However, I highly recommend trying the homemade version at least once, as it offers a fresh and customizable flavor profile that truly elevates the White BBQ Chicken Subs.