Chicken Tender Subs
There’s something comforting about a good sandwich, and Chicken Tender Subs truly hit the spot. I remember the first time I made these for a casual gathering with friends. It was one of those lazy afternoons when everyone just wanted something quick yet satisfying. I pulled out some leftover chicken tenders from the fridge, grabbed a loaf of fresh French bread, and before I knew it, I was assembling these delightful subs. The crispy edges of the chicken, mingled with the creamy mayonnaise and fresh lettuce, created a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Everyone gathered around the table, eagerly digging into their sandwiches, laughter filling the air as we shared stories. These subs quickly became a staple in my home, not just for their amazing taste but for the memories they created.
Recipe Snapshot
10 mins
10 mins
0 mins
Medium
450 kcal
25 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
20 g
Chef’s Knife
What We Adore About This Chicken Tender Subs
1. Quick and Easy
The beauty of Chicken Tender Subs lies in their simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests, it’s a go-to recipe that never disappoints.
2. Versatile Ingredients
This recipe allows for creativity. You can use leftover chicken tenders, or even make your own! The ingredients are flexible—whether you prefer spicy mayo or want to add some crunchy pickles, the choice is yours. This adaptability makes these subs perfect for any palate.
3. Family-Friendly
Kids love these subs! They’re not only fun to eat but also customizable. You can let your children choose their toppings, making it a fun cooking activity. It’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen and teach them about cooking!
4. Perfect for Leftovers
If you’ve ever had leftover chicken tenders, you know how easy it can be to turn them into something new and exciting. These Chicken Tender Subs are a fantastic way to breathe fresh life into yesterday’s dinner, reducing food waste and saving you time in the kitchen.
5. Satisfying and Filling
These subs are hearty, combining the protein from the chicken with the carbohydrates from the bread. They’re sure to fill you up and keep you satisfied, making them an excellent choice for lunch or dinner.
6. Great for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual family meal, a picnic, or game day, Chicken Tender Subs fit right in. They’re easy to prepare ahead of time and transport, making them perfect for outdoor gatherings or potlucks.
Chicken Tender Subs Shopping List
When it comes to making Chicken Tender Subs, the ingredients are straightforward and accessible. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that delicious combination of flavors. The bread serves as a cozy embrace for the fillings, while the chicken provides that satisfying protein punch. Fresh toppings like lettuce and tomato add crunch and freshness, making each bite a delightful experience.
- 1 loaf French bread: The foundation for your sub, it should be fresh and crusty on the outside while soft inside.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and moisture, elevating the flavor of the chicken.
- 6 chicken tenders: The star of the dish, these can be hot or cold, depending on your preference.
- 1½ cups shredded lettuce: Provides a fresh, crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.
- 3 slices provolone cheese: This mild cheese melts nicely and adds richness to the sub.
- ½ tomato, sliced: Adds juiciness and a burst of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon oregano: A pinch of this herb enhances the overall taste.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to taste.
How to Make Chicken Tender Subs
Making Chicken Tender Subs is a breeze, and the process is just as enjoyable as the finished product. Follow these steps to create your delicious subs, and don’t hesitate to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste!
- Start by cutting the French bread loaf in half lengthwise. This creates two long pieces that will hold all the tasty fillings.
- Using your fingers or a spoon, remove the fluffy middle of the loaf. This step creates more space for the delicious fillings without overloading the bread.
- Spread mayonnaise generously over the inside top and bottom of the loaf. This will add creaminess and help keep the bread from getting soggy.
- Next, chop the chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces. You want them to be manageable and easy to eat.
- Now, pile the chopped chicken in the bottom part of the French bread loaf. Make sure to distribute it evenly for a balanced bite.
- Top the chicken with the shredded lettuce, followed by the provolone cheese slices. Feel free to add as much cheese as you like!
- Next, layer on the tomato slices and sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Seasoning is key for that extra flavor punch.
- Finally, close the sandwich by placing the top half of the loaf on. Press down gently to meld everything together.
- To serve, cut the chicken tender sub into four pieces. This makes them easier to handle and share!
Things Worth Knowing
- Watching the Chicken: When cooking chicken tenders, ensure they’re cooked through to avoid any food safety issues. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Choosing Your Bread: A crusty loaf works best for Chicken Tender Subs, as it adds texture. Consider whole grain for added nutrition.
- Prepare in Advance: You can prep all your ingredients ahead of time for a quick assembly when you’re ready to eat!
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add extra toppings like pickles, jalapeños, or even avocado for a tasty twist.
Variations to Try
If you’re looking to mix things up, there are several fun variations you can try with Chicken Tender Subs. These tips will inspire you to get creative!
- Make it Spicy: Add some hot sauce or pepper jack cheese for a fiery kick.
- Try Different Cheeses: Substitute the provolone with cheddar, Swiss, or even a spicy cheese blend.
- Wrap it Up: Instead of a traditional sub, use tortillas to create chicken tender wraps.
- Stuff It: Add other toppings like grilled onions or sautéed peppers for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the assembled subs. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Pairing: Serve with a side of crispy fries or a light salad for a complete meal.
What to Pair With Chicken Tender Subs
When it comes to serving Chicken Tender Subs, there are plenty of delicious pairings that can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great sides and occasions to consider:
- Crispy Fries: A classic companion, crispy fries add crunch and satisfaction to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing side of coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the warmth of the subs.
- Chips and Salsa: For a casual gathering, serve with chips and salsa for a fun snack.
- Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette is light and complements the hearty subs.
- Picnic-Friendly: These subs are perfect for picnics or outdoor gatherings. Just pack them up and enjoy!
- Family Dinners: Ideal for a casual family dinner, Chicken Tender Subs are a hit with both kids and adults.
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chicken Tender Subs are a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that make for a delightful meal. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. I encourage you to try making them tonight—you might just discover a new family favorite!
Chicken Tender Subs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cutting the French bread loaf in half lengthwise. This creates two long pieces that will hold all the tasty fillings.
- Using your fingers or a spoon, remove the fluffy middle of the loaf. This step creates more space for the delicious fillings without overloading the bread.
- Spread mayonnaise generously over the inside top and bottom of the loaf. This will add creaminess and help keep the bread from getting soggy.
- Next, chop the chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces. You want them to be manageable and easy to eat.
- Now, pile the chopped chicken in the bottom part of the French bread loaf. Make sure to distribute it evenly for a balanced bite.
- Top the chicken with the shredded lettuce, followed by the provolone cheese slices. Feel free to add as much cheese as you like!
- Next, layer on the tomato slices and sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Seasoning is key for that extra flavor punch.
- Finally, close the sandwich by placing the top half of the loaf on. Press down gently to meld everything together.
- To serve, cut the chicken tender sub into four pieces. This makes them easier to handle and share!
Notes
- Tip 1: This recipe is great for leftover chicken tenders. You can also make it with homemade chicken tenders, chicken tenders with no breading, or frozen chicken tenders that have been cooked.
- Tip 2: This recipe works with both hot and cold chicken tenders. Prepare the subs based on preference.
- Tip 3: You can easily double this recipe if you are feeding a crowd or halve it for smaller portions.
