Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I bit into my first South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwich, a burst of tangy mustard and warm chicken hit my palate, instantly transporting me to a backyard BBQ amid the sweet Southern sun. This easy sandwich recipe features crispy chicken tenders drizzled with a creamy honey mustard sauce and a zesty mustard-based BBQ that’s downright addictive. Whether you’re feeding a crowd on game day or looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner, it’s a delightful way to elevate simple ingredients into a feast. Best of all, you can grill, fry, or bake the chicken to suit your cooking style, making this Southern chicken sandwich as versatile as it is delicious. Are you ready to give your taste buds a treat with this flavorful creation? Why are South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches irresistible? Flavor Explosion: This sandwich captures the essence of Southern cooking with its tangy mustard-based BBQ and creamy honey mustard sauce. Versatile Cooking Options: Whether you prefer grilled, fried, or baked chicken, this easy sandwich recipe accommodates your style and cravings. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for game days or cozy dinners, everyone will love this satisfying bite filled with tender chicken and crunchy toppings. Quick Assembly: Pre-cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time for effortless assembly, making it a breeze to enjoy a homemade meal during busy nights. Elevated Simplicity: This delight combines simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish that feels gourmet, making it a star in your kitchen. Dive into this flavor-packed experience today! South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwich Ingredients • Get ready to create a Southern sensation! For the Chicken • Chicken Tenders – The star of the show; choose grilled, fried, or baked for your desired crunch! For the Rolls • Hoagie Rolls or Soft Sandwich Buns – Opt for soft buns to cradle all the flavors perfectly. For the Sauce • Tangy South Carolina Mustard-Based BBQ Sauce – This bold sauce captures the Southern spirit; substitute with regular BBQ sauce for a milder flavor. • Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess; Greek yogurt is a lighter option if you prefer! • Dijon Mustard – Provides spice and tang; swap for regular mustard if needed. • Honey – Balances the tang with sweetness; maple syrup works in a pinch! For the Toppings • Chopped Pickles (Bread and Butter or Dill) – Adds crunch; pick based on your flavor preference. • Red Onion, Thinly Sliced – Introduces a zesty crunch; can be omitted for a milder bite. • Shredded Lettuce or Coleslaw – Brings freshness; swap for arugula for a peppery twist. For Seasoning • Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing all the flavors; adjust to taste. • Optional Hot Sauce – For those who crave extra heat; customize based on your spice tolerance. These South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches are more than just a tasty treat—they’re an experience waiting to unfold in your kitchen! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Season your chicken tenders generously with salt and pepper. Choose your cooking method: grill on medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20 minutes, or fry in hot oil until golden brown, roughly 5-7 minutes per side. Once cooked, set aside to rest while preparing the other components of the South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches. Step 2: Make the Sauce In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated. The sauce should have a nice balance of tang and sweetness that perfectly complements the chicken tenders. Set this aside as you get ready to toast your rolls. Step 3: Toast the Rolls Take your hoagie rolls or soft sandwich buns and lightly brush the insides with a bit of butter. Toast them in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes or until the edges are golden and crisp. This step not only enhances flavor but also helps keep the rolls from becoming soggy when the sandwich is assembled. Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches On the bottom half of each toasted roll, spread a generous layer of the creamy honey mustard sauce. Place one or two of the crispy chicken tenders on top and drizzle them with the tangy South Carolina mustard-based BBQ sauce. This combination is what makes your Bird Dog Sandwiches stand out with delightful bold flavors. Step 5: Add Toppings Layer your sandwich with shredded lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped pickles for crunch. If you like a little heat, feel free to add some optional hot sauce for that extra kick. Take a moment to really enjoy the colors and textures as you build the perfect South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwich. Step 6: Serve Close the sandwiches with the top half of the rolls, pressing down gently to hold everything together. Serve immediately while they are warm and inviting. These South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches are not just a meal; they’re an experience of Southern comfort you won’t want to miss! Storage Tips for South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches Room Temperature: Store any leftover sandwiches at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate them to maintain freshness. Fridge: Keep assembled sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store components separately to prevent soggy rolls, including the chicken, sauces, and toppings. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken tenders individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven before assembling your South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches. Reheating: Reheat the chicken tenders in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Toast fresh rolls just before serving for that delightful crunch! South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches Variations Feel free to get creative and customize these sandwiches with exciting twists that will make the flavors come alive! Grilled Chicken: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken tenders instead. The char adds a delightful depth reminiscent of summer BBQs. Fried Chicken Delight: If you’re craving something crispy, dredge the chicken tenders in seasoned flour and fry until golden brown for that extra crunch. Baked Version: Healthier option! Bake the chicken tenders at 400°F for 20 minutes, keeping them juicy and tender, while cutting down on oil. Mediterranean Twist: Add feta cheese, olives, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce to the toppings for a fresh Mediterranean flavor. Spicy Kick: Spice things up by adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. This option is perfect for those who enjoy a fiery experience. Coleslaw Swap: Switch out lettuce for crunchy coleslaw. It gives a refreshing texture that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Rotisserie Short-cut: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken for a time-saver and hassle-free preparation. Just shred and mix with BBQ sauce! BBQ Sauce Shift: If you prefer a sweeter scenario, try using a honey BBQ sauce instead of mustard-based for a different flavor profile. Each of these variations brings a unique flair to your Bird Dog Sandwiches. Why not pair them with some delightful sides like Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches or a crisp coleslaw from Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches? Enjoy experimenting! Make Ahead Options These South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the chicken tenders up to 3 days in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them juicy. Additionally, prepare the honey mustard sauce and any toppings, like shredded lettuce and chopped pickles, a day ahead. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken gently in the oven (to maintain its crispiness) while toasting the rolls for 2-3 minutes. This way, you’ll have deliciously warm sandwiches ready to delight your family, saving time on busy weeknights while keeping the flavors just as vibrant! Expert Tips for South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches Flavorful Marination: Let the cooked chicken tenders soak in the mustard-based BBQ sauce for a few minutes before assembling to enhance flavor. Avoid Soggy Buns: Keep all sandwich components separate until serving time. This prevents the hoagie rolls from getting soggy and losing their delightful crunch. Prep Ahead: To save time on busy nights, cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Simply reheat the chicken and assemble when ready to eat. Homemade Sauce Variation: Customize the sauce to fit your tastes! Adjust Dijon and honey levels for a spicier or sweeter kick in your South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches. Leftover Magic: If you have extra chicken tenders, they make great additions to salads or wraps for next-day meals—waste not, want not! What to Serve with South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches There’s something truly special about complementing these flavorful sandwiches with sides that awaken your senses and elevate your meal. Sweet Potato Fries: A crispy, sweet counterpart, these fries add a delectable crunch that balances the sandwich’s savory flavors. Coleslaw: Creamy and slightly tangy, coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that enhances the richness of the chicken and sauce. Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky sweetness of grilled corn pairs beautifully with the sandwich, offering a taste of summer in every bite. Pickle Chips: Serving extra pickle chips on the side not only brings more zest but also caters to pickle lovers who crave that crunch. Baked Beans: Savory baked beans can create a hearty side that complements the BBQ flavors while introducing a sweet smokiness. Southern-Style Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a classic Southern side that adds a cool contrast to the warm, crunchy sandwich. Iced Tea: A tall glass of sweet iced tea is the perfect refreshment to cleanse your palate between bites, capturing that Southern charm. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, serving warm chocolate chip cookies adds a touch of nostalgia, making the meal feel complete. Create a southern feast by pairing these options with your South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches and delight in every bite! South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best chicken tender for my South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches? Absolutely! Look for chicken tenders that feel firm and moist. If possible, choose ones that are free from dark spots or excessive liquid, which indicate lower quality. You can also opt for organic or free-range chicken for better flavor and quality. What is the best way to store leftover South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches? To keep your sandwiches fresh, store the components separately in airtight containers. The chicken should be refrigerated for up to 3 days, while the assembled sandwiches can remain at room temperature for up to 2 hours. This way, your hoagie rolls won’t get soggy! Can I freeze the chicken tenders for later use in the sandwiches? Yes! Totally! To freeze your chicken tenders, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your sandwich, just reheat the frozen chicken in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes. What should I do if my BBQ sauce is too tangy? No problem! If your mustard-based BBQ sauce turns out too tangy for your taste, simply add a bit more honey or maple syrup to balance out the flavors. Start with a small amount, mix, and taste before adding more if needed. It’s all about personalizing to your preference! Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! You can easily make gluten-free South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches by using gluten-free hoagie rolls or buns. Additionally, ensure your mustard-based BBQ sauce is also gluten-free by checking the ingredients or making your own at home! Are there any ingredients in this recipe that may cause allergies? Yes, typically ingredients like Dijon mustard and mayonnaise can cause allergies, especially for those who are sensitive to mustard seeds or eggs. If preparing for guests, consider serving a simplified version of the sauce with just olive oil, honey, and a pinch of salt instead. Always double-check ingredient labels to fit your dietary needs! Mouthwatering South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches to Savor Enjoy the flavorful South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches filled with crispy chicken tenders, zesty mustard BBQ sauce, and fresh toppings. Perfect for any gathering! Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 sandwichesCourse: DinnerCuisine: SouthernCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Chicken Tenders Choose grilled, fried, or baked for desired crunch.For the Rolls4 pieces Hoagie Rolls or Soft Sandwich Buns Opt for soft buns.For the Sauce1 cup Tangy South Carolina Mustard-Based BBQ Sauce Substitute with regular BBQ sauce for a milder flavor.1/2 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt is a lighter option.2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Swap for regular mustard if needed.2 tablespoons Honey Maple syrup works in a pinch.For the Toppings1/2 cup Chopped Pickles Choose Bread and Butter or Dill based on preference.1 small Red Onion Thinly sliced.1 cup Shredded Lettuce or Coleslaw Arugula can be substituted for a peppery twist.For Seasoningto taste Saltto taste Pepperoptional Hot Sauce For extra heat. Equipment skilletMixing bowlOven Method Step-by-Step InstructionsSeason chicken tenders with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, or fry until golden, about 5-7 minutes per side.In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.Brush hoagie rolls with butter and toast in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.Spread honey mustard sauce on the bottom half of each roll. Add chicken tenders and drizzle with the mustard-based BBQ sauce.Top with shredded lettuce, red onion, and pickles. Optionally add hot sauce.Close the sandwiches with the top halves of the rolls and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg NotesConsider marinating the chicken in BBQ sauce for enhanced flavor. Store components separately to avoid soggy rolls. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
