The Ultimate Homemade Chicken Tender Sub Sandwich: A Publix Copycat Experience

For anyone who has had the pleasure of living near a Publix grocery store, the mere mention of their sub sandwiches can evoke a powerful craving. Among their impressive array of offerings, one sandwich stands out as a true culinary icon: the Chicken Tender Sub. This legendary creation isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a phenomenon, having cultivated a devoted, almost cult-like following across the Southeast. Its irresistible combination of crispy chicken tenders, fresh toppings, and signature sauces creates a flavor experience that’s hard to forget.

Recreating the Magic: Why Go Homemade?

Living thousands of miles away from the nearest Publix, the longing for that iconic chicken tender sub became a genuine culinary quest. The solution? Bringing the magic home! Crafting your own chicken tender sub isn’t just a matter of convenience; it’s an opportunity to elevate this beloved sandwich to new heights. By making it yourself, you gain complete control over the quality of ingredients, allowing for fresher components, healthier options, and endless customization possibilities tailored precisely to your taste buds.

There’s an undeniable satisfaction in building your perfect sub from scratch. From choosing the freshest bread to selecting your favorite crispy chicken tenders and layering on vibrant toppings, the homemade version allows you to recapture that cherished Publix flavor, often surpassing it with your personal touch. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy a premium sandwich any time the craving strikes, without the need for a road trip!

The Heart of the Sub: Perfect Chicken Tenders

The foundation of an exceptional chicken tender sub lies squarely with its star ingredient: the chicken tenders. They need to be perfectly cooked—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside—providing that satisfying crunch with every bite. The texture and flavor of the tenders are paramount, as they define the character of the entire sandwich. Whether you prefer a classic fried tender or a lighter baked version, ensuring they are packed with flavor is key to a truly memorable sub.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Your Choice!

When it comes to the chicken tenders, you have a couple of fantastic options, depending on your time and preference:

• Homemade Buttermilk Chicken Tenders: For the ultimate flavor and freshness, making your own buttermilk chicken tenders is highly recommended. My buttermilk chicken tenders recipe results in incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken with a perfectly crisp coating. This extra step is truly worth it for an unparalleled sub experience.
• Quality Store-Bought Tenders: If you’re short on time or prefer a quicker approach, high-quality frozen chicken tenders are an excellent substitute. Ensure they are cooked according to package directions until golden brown and crispy. Air frying, baking in the oven, or even a quick deep-fry can achieve the desired crispness. Look for brands known for good texture and flavor.

Building Your Dream Sub: Beyond the Basics

One of the most delightful aspects of the chicken tender sub is its incredible versatility. There’s truly no wrong way to customize it, allowing you to tailor every element to your specific preferences. This freedom to choose your favorite flavors and textures is what makes homemade subs so rewarding.

The Foundation: Choosing Your Bread

The bread is more than just a vessel; it’s a critical component that contributes to the overall experience. A good sub requires a sturdy yet soft roll that can hold up to the fillings without getting soggy. French rolls, hoagie rolls, or classic sub buns are ideal. For an extra layer of flavor and warmth, consider toasting your roll. You can lightly butter it and sprinkle it with a pinch of garlic salt before a quick toast in the oven or a pan. This adds a beautiful crunch and aromatic note that complements the chicken perfectly.

Sauce Sensation: Elevating Every Bite

Sauces are where a chicken tender sub truly comes alive, offering a burst of flavor and moisture. My personal favorite combination is a generous drizzle of buffalo sauce for a spicy kick, balanced with cool, creamy ranch dressing. This classic pairing creates a harmonious blend of heat and tang that is simply addictive.

However, the possibilities don’t end there! My friend Janette, for example, prefers a delectable mix of honey mustard and ranch, served on a butter-and-garlic-salted toasted French roll. She truly has exquisite taste! Other fantastic sauce options include:

• Classic mayonnaise or a zesty spicy mayo
• Sweet and smoky BBQ sauce
• Tangy blue cheese dressing
• Your favorite hot sauce for an extra fiery punch
• A blend of sriracha and honey for a sweet-spicy twist

Fresh Toppings: The Crunch and Zest

No sub is complete without a medley of fresh, crisp toppings that add texture and brighten the flavors. The classics are a must:

• Shredded Lettuce: Provides a delightful crunch and freshness.
• Ripe Tomato Slices: Adds juicy sweetness and a vibrant color.
• Crisp Pickles: Whether you prefer dill or sweet, pickles offer a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the chicken and sauces.

But don’t stop there! Consider these optional additions to further customize your creation:

• Thinly sliced red or white onions for a sharp bite
• Spicy jalapeños or milder banana peppers for a subtle kick
• Creamy cheese slices like provolone, Swiss, or cheddar, melted lightly over the warm chicken tenders
• Fresh avocado slices for a creamy, rich texture

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Chicken Tender Sub

Assembling your chicken tender sub is an art form that ensures every bite is perfect. Follow these simple steps for the ultimate sandwich experience:

1. Prepare Your Tenders: Ensure your chicken tenders are cooked to crispy perfection and warm. If using homemade, follow the recipe. If using frozen, cook according to package instructions (air fryer, oven, or deep-fry are great options for crispiness).
2. Chop the Chicken: Once cooked, gently chop the chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces. This makes the sub easier to eat and ensures an even distribution of chicken in every bite.
3. Prep the Roll: Split your chosen French roll or sub bun lengthwise, but not all the way through, creating a hinge. If desired, lightly butter the cut sides and toast until golden and fragrant.
4. Layer the Chicken: Place the chopped chicken tenders evenly on the bottom half of the split roll.
5. Drizzle with Sauce: Generously drizzle your chosen sauces over the chicken tenders. Don’t be shy – this is where much of the flavor comes from!
6. Add Toppings: Layer your fresh toppings: start with tomato slices, then pickles, and finally a generous pile of shredded lettuce. Add any other desired toppings like onions or peppers.
7. Close and Serve: Carefully place the top half of the roll over the fillings. Gently press down to secure everything.
8. Cut (Optional): For easier handling and sharing, cut the sub in half diagonally before serving.

Unleash Your Inner Sub Artist: Creative Combinations

The beauty of a homemade chicken tender sub truly shines through in its limitless customization. Think beyond the classic buffalo and ranch. How about a “BBQ Ranch” sub with smoky BBQ sauce, ranch, crispy fried onions, and cheddar cheese? Or a “Spicy Honey Mustard” sub featuring tenders tossed in a honey-sriracha glaze, topped with provolone, lettuce, and pickles? You could even explore a “Mediterranean Twist” with a yogurt-dill sauce, cucumber, and red onion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, unique relishes, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The kitchen is your canvas, and this sub is your masterpiece!

Pro Tips for the Ultimate Chicken Tender Sub

• Warm Tenders are Key: Always use freshly cooked or reheated chicken tenders. Cold tenders will detract from the overall experience.
• Don’t Overcrowd: While it’s tempting to pile on the fillings, an overstuffed sub can be messy and hard to eat. Aim for a balanced ratio of chicken, sauce, and toppings.
• Quality Ingredients Matter: Fresh, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and good quality pickles make a noticeable difference.
• Toast Your Bread: A lightly toasted roll adds structural integrity and a wonderful crunch, preventing it from getting soggy too quickly.
• Chop for Success: Chopping the tenders into smaller pieces ensures that every bite contains a perfect mix of flavors and textures, unlike whole tenders that can pull out of the sandwich.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use grilled chicken instead of fried tenders?

Absolutely! While the classic uses fried tenders, grilled chicken strips can be a delicious and lighter alternative. Marinate them for extra flavor before grilling for the best results.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover chicken tender sub?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, remove the cold toppings (lettuce, tomato, pickles). You can lightly toast the bread with the chicken inside in a toaster oven or air fryer until warmed, then add back the fresh toppings.

Can I prepare the components ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook your chicken tenders ahead of time and reheat them when ready to assemble. Prep your vegetables (shred lettuce, slice tomatoes and pickles) and store them separately. Assemble just before serving for the best texture.

What sides pair well with this sub?

This sub pairs perfectly with classic diner sides like crispy french fries, onion rings, potato chips, a fresh side salad, or creamy coleslaw.

Related Recipes to Inspire Your Kitchen Adventures

Other Chicken Recipes

• Buffalo Chicken Tenders
• Smoked Chicken Wings
• Cheesy Grilled Buffalo Chicken
• Bourbon Bacon BBQ Chicken Kebabs

More Sandwich Recipes

• Buttermilk Fried Chicken & Bacon Waffle Sandwich
• Hawaiian Roll Italian Sliders
• Nashville Hot Shrimp Po’ Boy

Author: Jessica Pinney

Did you make this recipe? We’d love to see your delicious creations! Please tag @cookingwithjanica on Instagram and share your homemade chicken tender subs!