Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe unmistakable aroma of juicy chicken sizzling in the kitchen is enough to transport me to a sun-soaked Southern barbecue. Today, I’m excited to share my spin on South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches, a delightful dish that blends crispy chicken tenders with a tangy mustard BBQ sauce enveloped in soft hoagie rolls. These sandwiches are not just a quick and easy meal; they’re also customizable, making them perfect for everyone at the table. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or seeking a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers both nostalgia and satisfaction. Are you ready to uncover the secrets behind these irresistible sandwiches? Let’s dive in! Why are South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches loved? Irresistible Flavor: The combination of juicy chicken tenders and tangy mustard BBQ sauce creates a taste explosion that’s pure Southern delight. Customizable Options: Whether you’re a vegetarian or a cheese lover, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit everyone’s taste preferences. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip up these sandwiches in no time, perfect for busy nights or last-minute gatherings. Crowd-Pleaser: These sandwiches are sure to impress family and friends alike, making them ideal for everything from casual BBQs to festive celebrations. Meal Prep Friendly: Cook a batch in advance, ensuring you have tasty, hearty meals ready to go for the week ahead. For more delicious quick meals, check out my Southwest Chicken Wraps or perfect additions like Southern Fried Shrimp. South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches Ingredients For the Chicken Tenders • Chicken Tenders – Juicy protein base that can be grilled, fried, or baked; quick substitute: rotisserie or frozen tenders. For the Mustard BBQ Sauce • South Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce (½ cup) – Adds a tangy, bold flavor that defines the dish. • Mayonnaise (¼ cup) – Provides creaminess in the sauce. • Dijon Mustard (2 tablespoons) – Offers a zesty kick that enhances flavor. • Honey (1 tablespoon) – Adds subtle sweetness to contrast the tangy elements. • Salt and Pepper – Enhances overall flavor, ensuring your South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches are tasty. For the Sandwich Assembly • Hoagie Rolls (4 pieces) – Soft, pillowy bread to hold the fillings; sandwich buns can be used as an alternative. • Pickles (¼ cup, chopped) – Adds crunch; use bread and butter for sweetness or dill for a classic touch. • Red Onion (1 small, thinly sliced) – Introduces a sharp, sweet flavor that balances the richness. • Shredded Lettuce/Coleslaw (½ cup) – Provides freshness and crunch; substitute with coleslaw for added flavor. • Hot Sauce – Optional for those who love a spicy kick. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches Step 1: Prepare Chicken Begin by seasoning the chicken tenders with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat your preferred cooking method—grill, oven, or frying pan—to medium-high. If frying, add oil and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Set the cooked tenders aside to rest, allowing the juices to redistribute. Step 2: Make Sauce In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy, blending all the flavors together. This honey mustard sauce will complement your South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches beautifully, adding a delightful tanginess that enhances the tender chicken. Step 3: Toast Rolls While the chicken rests, take your hoagie rolls and lightly toast them. Preheat your oven to 350°F or use a skillet over medium heat. Place the rolls cut side up in the oven or in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes until they’re crisp and golden around the edges. Toasting the rolls adds a satisfying crunch to your sandwiches. Step 4: Assemble Sandwiches Spread a generous layer of the honey mustard sauce on the bottom half of each toasted hoagie roll. Place a juicy chicken tender right on top and drizzle some South Carolina mustard BBQ sauce generously over it, making sure to cover the chicken well with flavor for each Bird Dog Sandwich. Step 5: Add Toppings Layer your sandwiches with fresh shredded lettuce or coleslaw for added crunch. Next, add thinly sliced red onions for a pop of sweetness and brightness. Finally, sprinkle some chopped pickles on top, and if you desire a spicy kick, drizzle on your choice of hot sauce for that extra zing that perfectly enhances the South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches. Step 6: Finish Cap each assembled sandwich with the top half of the hoagie roll and serve them warm immediately. These South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you savor every bite of crispy, tangy, and satisfying goodness. South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches Variations Feel free to make these sandwiches your own with these delightful twists that will excite your taste buds! Veggie Delight: Substitute chicken tenders with grilled veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for a fresh, vibrant option. This swap gives a colorful crunch that brings a new flavor profile to the classic sandwich. Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the honey mustard sauce for those who crave a fiery twist. This addition ignites the taste experience, perfect for spice lovers. Cheesy Option: Melt your favorite cheese over the chicken right before assembling for a rich, creamy texture. Think gooey goodness that perfectly pairs with the tangy sauce! Alternative Breads: Experiment with different types of bread like baguette or whole grain for new textures that might surprise and delight your palette. A hearty bread can add a rustic charm to your sandwich. Sauce Swap: Try experimenting with other sauces like ranch dressing or traditional honey mustard for different flavor combinations. A good sauce can transform the sandwich into a completely new meal! Add Fruits: Incorporate sliced peaches or apples for a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors beautifully. This fruity addition adds an unexpected and refreshing twist. Crunchy Nuts: Integrate chopped pecans or walnuts for a casual crunch and earthy flavor that elevates your South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches. It’s like a little surprise in every bite! If you’re looking for more delicious creations to try, consider making these Southwest Chicken Wraps or enjoy the crispy goodness of Southern Fried Shrimp. Enjoy customizing these sandwiches to suit your taste! Expert Tips for South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches Keep it Crispy: Assemble sandwiches just before serving to maintain the crunch of the toasted rolls. Avoid Dry Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Overcooking can lead to dryness, ruining your South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches. Prep Ahead: Chop ingredients and prepare the honey mustard sauce in advance. Store separately in the fridge to keep everything fresh. Customize Freely: Feel free to mix up ingredients based on personal preferences. Add jalapeños for spice, or swap chicken for grilled veggies for a veggie delight. Experiment with Bread: Don’t limit yourself to hoagie rolls; try baguettes or whole grain bread for different textures in your sandwiches. What to Serve with Irresistibly Juicy South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches The perfect companion to these delightful sandwiches elevates your spread, ensuring a wholesome and satisfying meal experience. Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy, slightly sweet fries balance the tangy flavors of the sandwich, making each bite enjoyable. Tangy Coleslaw: A cool and crunchy side of coleslaw adds freshness and texture, pairing beautifully with the savory chicken. Creamy Mac and Cheese: The rich, comforting creaminess of mac and cheese complements the sandwich’s crispy chicken, creating a hearty meal. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a touch of sweetness that harmonizes with the mustard BBQ sauce, perfect for summer BBQ vibes. Chilled Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a bright, juicy contrast that uplifts the sandwich flavors. Pickle Chips: Crunchy and tangy, these pickle chips enhance the sandwich experience, allowing for that delightful contrast in textures. Iced Tea or Lemonade: Serve with sweet iced tea or fresh lemonade for a refreshing drink that cuts through the richness of the sandwich. Mini Chocolate Pies: These little treats provide a sweet finish, balancing the savory flavors of your meal with a bite of chocolate goodness. Consider choosing a combination of these sides to create an unforgettable meal that showcases the delicious South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches! How to Store and Freeze South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches Fridge: Store leftover chicken tenders and toppings separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Freezer: If you have cooked chicken tenders, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place them in freezer bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Assemble the South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches just before serving for best results. Assembly Tip: To keep rolls crispy, reheat seasoned toppings and sauces separately before adding them to the rolls just before serving. Make Ahead Options These South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken tenders up to 3 days in advance by cooking and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, make the honey mustard and mustard BBQ sauces ahead—these can be refrigerated separately for up to 5 days. To maintain their quality, ensure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing it, and keep the sauces tightly covered. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through (or enjoy directly from the fridge for a cold twist) and assemble the sandwiches with freshly toasted rolls and toppings. This way, you’ll have delicious, crowd-pleasing South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches ready with minimal effort! South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches Recipe FAQs What chicken is best for South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches? Absolutely! I recommend using fresh chicken tenders as they provide the juiciest base for these sandwiches. If you’re pressed for time, rotisserie chicken or frozen tenders can work perfectly too. Just ensure they’re fully cooked and hot before serving. How long can I store leftover sandwiches? Leftover chicken tenders and toppings can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To prevent the rolls from getting soggy, keep the toppings and chicken separate until you’re ready to enjoy your last bites. Can I freeze cooked chicken tenders? Very! You can freeze cooked chicken tenders for up to 3 months. To do this, place them in freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to use them, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before assembling your South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches. How can I prevent the chicken from becoming dry when cooking? To avoid dry chicken, using a meat thermometer is key! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Cooking on medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness, should keep your tenders juicy. Take them off the heat as soon as they reach that temperature for the best results! What can I use if I have dietary restrictions? Great question! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider substituting the chicken tenders with grilled veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. For those with allergies, always check the ingredients of sauces and rolls. You can also skip the mayonnaise in the sauce if you’re avoiding eggs. Are there any topping alternatives? The more the merrier! You can swap out toppings based on personal preference. If you enjoy a little heat, add sliced jalapeños or opt for coleslaw for extra flavor. Alternatively, try adding fresh fruits like sliced peaches to introduce a delightful sweetness that balances the tangy flavors. Savory South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches for Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Discover the irresistible South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches that blend crispy chicken tenders with tangy mustard BBQ sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 sandwichesCourse: LunchCuisine: SouthernCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Tenders1 pound Chicken Tenders Can be grilled, fried, or baked; quick substitute: rotisserie or frozen tenders.For the Mustard BBQ Sauce0.5 cups South Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce Adds a tangy, bold flavor that defines the dish.0.25 cups Mayonnaise Provides creaminess in the sauce.2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Offers a zesty kick that enhances flavor.1 tablespoon Honey Adds subtle sweetness to contrast the tangy elements.to taste Salt Enhances overall flavor.to taste Pepper Enhances overall flavor.For the Sandwich Assembly4 pieces Hoagie Rolls Soft, pillowy bread to hold the fillings; sandwich buns can be used as an alternative.0.25 cups Pickles Chopped; adds crunch; use bread and butter for sweetness or dill for a classic touch.1 small Red Onion Thinly sliced; introduces a sharp, sweet flavor.0.5 cups Shredded Lettuce/Coleslaw Provides freshness and crunch; substitute with coleslaw for added flavor.Hot Sauce Optional for those who love a spicy kick. Equipment grillOvenFrying panmedium bowl Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsBegin by seasoning the chicken tenders with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat your preferred cooking method—grill, oven, or frying pan—to medium-high. If frying, add oil and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Set the cooked tenders aside to rest.In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy.While the chicken rests, take your hoagie rolls and lightly toast them in an oven preheated to 350°F or in a skillet over medium heat.Spread a generous layer of the honey mustard sauce on the bottom half of each toasted hoagie roll. Place a juicy chicken tender right on top and drizzle some South Carolina mustard BBQ sauce over it.Layer your sandwiches with fresh shredded lettuce or coleslaw, then add thinly sliced red onions, and sprinkle some chopped pickles on top. Drizzle on your choice of hot sauce if desiring a spicy kick.Cap each assembled sandwich with the top half of the hoagie roll and serve them warm. Nutrition Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg NotesAssemble sandwiches just before serving to maintain the crunch of the toasted rolls. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Prep ingredients and sauce in advance, and customize freely. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
