White BBQ Chicken Subs: A Zesty Twist on a Classic Favorite
Transform your ordinary chicken sandwich into a flavor-packed culinary delight with these White BBQ Chicken Subs. Featuring succulent grilled chicken tenders, savory shallots, and a tangy homemade white BBQ sauce, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your household. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch, these subs are both comforting and exciting, delivering a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors.
Ingredients Overview
For the White BBQ Sauce:
½ Cup Mayonnaise
- Provides a creamy base for the sauce, ensuring a rich and smooth texture.
2 Tbsp White Vinegar
- Adds a tangy kick that balances the creaminess of the mayonnaise.
½ Tbsp Freshly Cracked White Pepper
- Gives the sauce a subtle heat and a unique peppery flavor.
½ Tbsp Creole Mustard
- Introduces a bit of spice and depth with its bold, tangy profile.
½ Tsp Salt
- Enhances all the other flavors, making the sauce more robust.
2 Tbsp Sugar
- Balances the acidity of the vinegar and lemon juice, adding a touch of sweetness.
2 Large Garlic Cloves, Pressed
- Infuses the sauce with a fragrant, savory garlic flavor.
2 Tsp Horseradish
- Provides an extra layer of heat and tanginess, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.
1 Tbsp Lemon Juice
- Freshens up the sauce with a bright citrus note.
½ Tsp Paprika
- Adds a mild smokiness and vibrant color to the sauce.
For the Sandwich:
14 oz Chicken Tenders
- Tender and juicy, they are perfect for absorbing the flavors of the marinade and the BBQ sauce.
2 Tbsp Vegetable Oil
- Ensures the chicken cooks evenly and remains moist.
Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- Basic seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
2 Large Shallots, Sliced
- Adds a sweet and delicate onion flavor, complementing the chicken and BBQ sauce.
1½ Cups Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
- Melts beautifully over the chicken, adding a creamy, slightly tangy finish.
2 French Bread Subs
- Sturdy and slightly crisp, these subs hold up well to the hearty filling.
About ½ Cup White BBQ Sauce (additional for dipping or drizzling)
- Extra sauce for enhancing the flavor of the subs while serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Prepare the White BBQ Sauce:
1. Mix the Sauce
- Combine: In a medium bowl, mix together mayonnaise, white vinegar, freshly cracked white pepper, Creole mustard, salt, sugar, pressed garlic, horseradish, lemon juice, and paprika. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated. Refrigerate until ready to use to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook the Chicken:
2. Sauté the Chicken
- Heat Oil: In a large sauté pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Cook Chicken: Season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Cook, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add Shallots: Add the sliced shallots halfway through cooking the chicken. Continue to sauté until the shallots are soft and caramelized.
3. Chop the Chicken
- Cool and Chop: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it cool slightly. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the Sandwich:
4. Mix the Filling
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, cooked shallots, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and about ½ cup of the white BBQ sauce. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
5. Prepare the Subs
- Slice the Bread: Slice each French bread sub down the middle without cutting all the way through. Fill: Divide the chicken mixture evenly between the two subs. Sprinkle extra shredded cheese over the top for added meltiness.
Melt and Serve:
6. Broil the Subs
- Broil: Place the subs on a baking sheet and broil in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, watching carefully to prevent burning.
7. Serve Immediately
- Drizzle and Serve: Drizzle more white BBQ sauce on top, if desired. Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Wrap any leftover subs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Reheating:
- Oven Method: Reheat the subs in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melted.
- Microwave Method: For a quicker option, microwave individual portions on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Helpful Tips for Enhancing the Recipe
Choose Quality Bread: Use fresh, sturdy French bread to ensure the subs hold up well with the filling and sauce.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the white BBQ sauce for an extra kick of heat.
Customize the Cheese: Substitute Monterey Jack with your favorite melting cheese like cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
Add Greens: Include a layer of fresh spinach or arugula for added texture and a burst of color.
Toast the Bread: Lightly toast the inside of the subs before filling to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Double the Sauce: Make extra white BBQ sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week to use on other dishes.
Marinate the Chicken: Marinate the chicken tenders in a bit of the white BBQ sauce for at least an hour before cooking for enhanced flavor.
Extra Crunch: Add some pickled jalapenos or crispy fried onions to the subs for a delightful crunch.
Popular Questions and Answers
Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
- Answer: Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts. Just slice them into thin strips to ensure even cooking.
Is there a way to make the sauce less spicy?
- Answer: Omit the horseradish or reduce the amount of freshly cracked white pepper for a milder sauce.
What other bread can I use for the subs?
- Answer: Ciabatta rolls, hoagie rolls, or even a baguette can work well for this recipe.
Can I grill the chicken instead of sautéing it?
- Answer: Absolutely! Grilled chicken will add a wonderful smoky flavor to the subs.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Answer: Use gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients, such as the Creole mustard, are gluten-free.
Can I prepare the chicken filling ahead of time?
- Answer: Yes, you can prepare the chicken filling up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and assemble the subs just before serving.
What can I serve with these subs?
- Answer: Serve with a side of coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
- Answer: Substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh.
Secrets for Achieving Culinary Perfection
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture.
Balance Flavors: Taste the white BBQ sauce as you make it and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
Layer Ingredients Evenly: Ensure the chicken mixture is evenly spread throughout the sub for consistent flavor in every bite.
Monitor Broiling: Keep a close eye on the subs while broiling to prevent the cheese from burning.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, jalapenos, or avocado for additional layers of flavor and texture.
Perfectly Melted Cheese: Use a combination of cheeses for a richer, more complex flavor.
Serve Fresh: Enjoy the subs immediately after broiling for the best taste and texture experience.
Enjoy crafting these delightful White BBQ Chicken Subs and savor every bite of this zesty, comforting sandwich
