These Easy White BBQ Chicken Subs are a tasty twist on a classic! Made with tender chicken, creamy white BBQ sauce, and fresh toppings, they’re super simple to whip up.
They’re perfect for lunch or dinner, and you won’t believe how quick they come together. I love piling on the crunchy veggies—makes each bite fun and satisfying! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect because they cook quickly and are easy to handle. You can substitute with rotisserie chicken for convenience—just shred it up and add directly to the mix.
White BBQ Sauce: While store-bought is handy, you can make your own by mixing mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, and a touch of honey or paprika for sweetness and spice. Greek yogurt can replace mayo for a lighter version too!
Cheese: I love mozzarella for its meltiness, but Monterey Jack is also a great option. You can mix in some sharp cheddar for extra flavor or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re going vegan.
Hoagie Rolls: Any sub rolls work great here! If you want a lighter option, consider whole-wheat tortillas or lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist.
How Do You Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken well is key for flavor and texture. Start by heating your skillet with olive oil and then following these steps:
- Slice the chicken thinly for quick cooking, so it doesn’t dry out.
- Season the chicken with garlic powder and smoked paprika for a nice kick.
- Cook it over medium heat until no longer pink—this usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Avoid high heat to keep it juicy!
The beauty of this dish is how easy it is to pull together. Just take your time with the chicken, and you’ll have a deliver of delicious! 🌟
How to Make Easy White BBQ Chicken Subs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Mix:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced or thinly chopped
- 1 cup white BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or mild chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Subs:
- 4 hoagie or sub rolls
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your delicious subs!
2. Sauté the Onions:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. When it’s hot, toss in the thinly sliced onions and sauté them until they are softened and slightly caramelized, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the sliced chicken to the skillet with the onions. Season the mixture with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir it well, and cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink in the center, around 6-8 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on it to keep it juicy!
4. Combine with BBQ Sauce:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and mix in the white BBQ sauce so that everything is well-coated. It should look creamy and flavorful!
5. Prepare the Hoagie Rolls:
Slice each hoagie roll lengthwise, leaving one side intact so they create a nice pocket to hold your chicken mixture.
6. Fill the Rolls:
Generously spoon the creamy white BBQ chicken mixture into each hoagie roll, packing them in well.
7. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle a good amount of shredded cheese over the top of the chicken filling in each roll!
8. Bake the Subs:
Place the filled rolls on a baking sheet and slide them into the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a minute before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm and gooey. Grab a napkin, take a big bite, and enjoy your creamy, tangy, cheesy subs!
This dish is a great comfort meal that is both easy to make and delicious! 🥪✨
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and will work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to cook them to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re safe to eat.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken mixture in advance! Cook the chicken and onions, mix in the BBQ sauce, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just fill your rolls and bake.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have White BBQ Sauce?
No worries! You can make a simple white BBQ sauce at home by mixing mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a dash of black pepper. This will give you a similar creamy and tangy flavor!
How Should I Store Leftover Subs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to get the rolls crispy again instead of using the microwave.
Feel free to ask more questions about this delicious recipe! 🍽️✨
