South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches 🐔🥪

These South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches are a delicious twist on the classic chicken sandwich, featuring tender grilled, fried, or baked chicken tenders smothered in tangy South Carolina mustard-based BBQ sauce and topped with creamy mustard mayo, crunchy pickles, crisp onions, and fresh lettuce or coleslaw. This hearty sandwich captures the bold flavors of Southern BBQ while keeping things simple and satisfying. Perfect for game day, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner, these sandwiches are sure to become a favorite.

Let’s dive into how to make these mouthwatering sandwiches step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Bold Flavors : The tangy mustard BBQ sauce and zesty mustard mayo create a flavor-packed experience.
  2. Customizable : Adjust toppings like hot sauce, pickles, or slaw to suit your taste.
  3. Versatile Cooking Methods : Grill, bake, or fry the chicken for ultimate flexibility.
  4. Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights or weekend gatherings.
  5. Crowd-Pleasing : A hearty sandwich that’s ideal for feeding a crowd or enjoying solo.

Ingredients

(Serves 4)

For the Chicken:

  • 4 chicken tenders , grilled, fried, or baked 🐔
  • Salt and pepper , to taste 🧂⚫
  • Optional: Your favorite seasonings (like paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne )

For the Sauce:

  • ½ cup tangy South Carolina mustard-based BBQ sauce
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Pinch of salt and pepper

For the Sandwiches:

  • 4 hoagie rolls or soft sandwich buns , toasted 🥖
  • ¼ cup chopped pickles (bread and butter or dill, based on preference )
  • 1 small red onion , thinly sliced 🧅
  • ½ cup shredded lettuce or coleslaw 🥗
  • Optional: Hot sauce for an extra kick 🔥

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. If using raw chicken tenders, season them generously with salt , pepper , and any additional seasonings you like.
  2. Cook the chicken tenders using your preferred method:
    • Grill : Cook over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes per side , or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
    • Fry : Heat oil in a skillet, coat the chicken in flour or breadcrumbs, and fry until golden and crispy.
    • Bake : Place on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes , flipping halfway through.
  3. Once cooked, set aside and let rest for 2–3 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise , Dijon mustard , honey , and a pinch of salt and pepper . Stir until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 3: Toast the Rolls

  1. Lightly toast the hoagie rolls or sandwich buns in a skillet or oven for 2–3 minutes , just until crispy on the edges.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

  1. Spread a generous layer of the mustard mayo sauce on the bottom half of each toasted roll.
  2. Place a cooked chicken tender on top of the sauce.
  3. Drizzle the tangy South Carolina mustard BBQ sauce over the chicken.
  4. Add a handful of shredded lettuce or coleslaw for crunch and freshness.
  5. Top with sliced red onions and pickles for extra tang and texture.
  6. Optionally, drizzle some hot sauce for an added spicy kick.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Place the top half of the roll on the sandwich and serve immediately while the chicken is warm.

Tips for Success

  1. Use Quality Ingredients : Fresh chicken, high-quality BBQ sauce, and homemade coleslaw elevate the flavors.
  2. Experiment with Toppings : Add jalapeños, avocado slices, or bacon for extra indulgence.
  3. Make Ahead : Prepare the mustard mayo sauce and chop toppings ahead of time for quicker assembly.
  4. Storage : Store leftover chicken and toppings separately in the fridge for up to 2 days . Reheat chicken gently before assembling sandwiches.
  5. Freeze for Later : Freeze cooked chicken tenders in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months . Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Perfect Pairings

These South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches pair beautifully with:

  • Chips or Fries : Serve with sweet potato fries, kettle chips, or curly fries for a classic combo.
  • Side Salad : Pair with a crisp garden salad or creamy potato salad for balance.
  • Pickles or Slaw : Extra pickles or a side of coleslaw complement the tangy flavors.
  • Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water, lemonade, or a cold beer for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information (Per Sandwich, Approx.)

(Based on 4 servings)

  • Calories : ~550–600 kcal
  • Protein : ~30g
  • Carbohydrates : ~50g
  • Fat : ~25g
  • Fiber : ~3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

These South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches are a flavor-packed, hearty meal that brings the tangy, bold flavors of Southern BBQ to your plate. Whether you’re grilling, frying, or baking the chicken, this sandwich is versatile, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauces, crunchy toppings, and soft buns creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the toppings, adjust the sauces, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your chicken tenders, toast those buns, and get ready to enjoy a sandwich that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

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