These creamy white BBQ chicken subs are a delicious twist for your lunch! Juicy chicken is mixed with a smooth white BBQ sauce, all served in a soft bun. Yum!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a tasty sandwich? I can never just eat one. Perfect for a picnic or a cozy movie night! Just pile on your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenderness and easy cooking. If you’re looking for a quicker option, shredded rotisserie chicken works great and adds even more flavor!
White BBQ Sauce: This sauce gives a unique flavor. If you can’t find it, try a mix of ranch dressing and a bit of lemon juice, or even a zesty yogurt sauce.
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its meltiness and mild flavor. Provolone is another great choice. You can swap in pepper jack for a kick if you want more spice!
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: If you’re watching calories, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier twist. This keeps it creamy while adding protein and tang!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky, but here’s how to ensure juicy pieces:
- Start by heating the olive oil in a preheated skillet; it helps to seal in the juices.
- Make sure the chicken is cut into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- Add seasonings early; it enhances the flavor. Stir often to avoid sticking and burning.
- Cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, typically about 7-10 minutes. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (75°C) for safety!
These simple steps will help you achieve tender, flavorful chicken for your subs every time!
How to Make Creamy White BBQ Chicken Subs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Filling:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup white BBQ sauce (or substitute with a tangy white sauce/spicy ranch)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Subs:
- 4 sub sandwich rolls or hoagie buns
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 15-20 minutes of cooking time, making it a perfect quick meal ready in just about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Make your kitchen smell amazing! Now, toss in the chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
2. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, grab a medium bowl. Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, white BBQ sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir together until everything is well combined. This will be the creamy goodness that makes the subs irresistible!
3. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully stir the chicken and onion mixture into the creamy sauce. Mix gently until the chicken is well coated. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. You want it to be just right!
4. Preheat the Broiler:
Before we hit the oven, turn on the broiler to high. This will help melt the cheese perfectly!
5. Assemble Your Subs:
Slice the sub rolls or hoagie buns down the center without cutting all the way through. Generously fill each roll with the creamy BBQ chicken mixture. Don’t be shy – pile it on!
6. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over each filled sub, covering the chicken mixture generously.
7. Broil the Subs:
Place the loaded subs on a baking sheet and slide them into the oven under the broiler. Broil for just about 2-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once golden and bubbly, remove the subs from the oven. Let them cool for a minute before serving. These creamy, cheesy white BBQ chicken subs are perfect for lunch, dinner, or a game day treat!
Dig in and enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite of your delicious subs!
FAQ for Creamy White BBQ Chicken Subs
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely beforehand. You can thaw in the fridge overnight or use the quick method of sealing it in a plastic bag submerged in cold water. Make sure to pat it dry before cooking to ensure it browns nicely!
Can I Make the Chicken Filling Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken filling and creamy sauce a day in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken mixture on the stove or in the microwave before assembling the subs.
How Should I Store Leftover Subs?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep the subs fresh, store the filling and buns separately to avoid sogginess. Reheat gently in the oven to restore some crispiness!
Can I Substitute Other Ingredients?
Yes! You can easily customize this recipe. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. If you’re looking for a different protein, shredded rotisserie chicken or even pulled pork work great. Just adjust the seasonings to match your taste!
