Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches

This South Carolina Bird Dog sandwich brings a tangy, Southern twist to the classic chicken sandwich. The combination of tender chicken, zippy mustard BBQ sauce, and fresh toppings creates a flavor explosion that's become a regional favorite across the Palmetto State.

I first made these sandwiches after visiting Charleston and falling in love with their unique mustard BBQ sauce. My family now requests these Bird Dogs whenever we want something special that doesn't require hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Chicken tenders: are the foundation here providing juicy protein that absorbs the tangy sauce beautifully. Choose high quality tenders or slice your own from chicken breasts
• Hoagie rolls or soft sandwich buns: need to be sturdy enough to hold all the toppings without falling apart. Fresh bakery buns work best
• South Carolina mustard BBQ sauce: delivers the distinctive golden color and tangy flavor that defines this sandwich. Look for authentic Carolina brands if possible
• Mayonnaise: creates the creamy base for the sandwich spread that balances the tang
• Dijon mustard: adds sophisticated sharpness to complement the BBQ sauce
• Honey: provides natural sweetness that rounds out the acidic notes in the mustard
• Chopped pickles: bring brightness and textural contrast. Either bread and butter or dill work well
• Red onion slices: add a pleasant bite and beautiful color contrast
• Lettuce or coleslaw: provides a fresh crunch element that lightens the sandwich

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Season your chicken tenders generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Cook using your preferred method until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For grilling allow 5 to 7 minutes per side over medium heat for beautiful char marks. If frying dredge in flour first for extra crispiness. For baking use a 375°F oven for about 15 minutes. Let rest briefly before assembling.

Make the Sauce:

Combine mayonnaise Dijon mustard and honey in a small bowl. Whisk thoroughly until completely smooth and no streaks remain. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. The sauce should have a perfect balance of creaminess tang and subtle sweetness. Make this ahead if possible to allow flavors to meld.

Toast the Rolls:

Slice your rolls lengthwise and place cut side down in a dry skillet over medium heat. Watch carefully for 2 to 3 minutes until edges become golden and crispy. Alternatively place under a broiler for about 1 minute. The toasting creates a barrier that prevents sogginess once sauces are added.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Spread a generous layer of your honey mustard sauce on the bottom half of each toasted roll. Place a perfectly cooked chicken tender centered on top. Drizzle the signature South Carolina mustard BBQ sauce over the chicken allowing it to seep down the sides. Be generous here as this sauce is the star of the show.

Add Toppings:

Layer your fresh components starting with lettuce or coleslaw spread evenly across the chicken. Add thin slices of red onion distributing them for flavor in each bite. Scatter chopped pickles over everything. For heat lovers add several dashes of hot sauce at this stage.

Serve:

Place the top half of the roll over your beautifully layered sandwich pressing gently to compact ingredients slightly. Slice diagonally if desired for easier handling. Serve immediately while the chicken is still warm and the roll maintains its crispness.

Save

My family's absolute favorite part is the contrast between the tangy mustard sauce and the sweet honey elements. My daughter who typically avoids mustard completely devours these sandwiches which speaks to how perfectly balanced they are. We often make them for game day watching our South Carolina Gamecocks play.

Storage Tips

These Bird Dog sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately after assembly but you can prepare components ahead of time. Store the honey mustard sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cooked chicken tenders can be refrigerated for 2 days and reheated before assembly. If you must store assembled sandwiches wrap them tightly in foil or parchment paper rather than plastic wrap to prevent sogginess.

Regional Variations

While the South Carolina version features the signature yellow mustard BBQ sauce you can adapt this sandwich to other regional styles. Alabama style uses white BBQ sauce made with mayonnaise and vinegar. Memphis style would incorporate a sweet tomato based sauce. Eastern Carolina style features a vinegar pepper sauce. Each variation maintains the spirit of the Bird Dog while showcasing different regional BBQ traditions.

Serving Suggestions

Complete your Southern feast by pairing these Bird Dog sandwiches with classic sides like sweet potato fries coleslaw or a chilled pasta salad. For drinks consider sweet tea the house wine of the South or a light lager beer. These sandwiches also pair beautifully with pickled vegetables or a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes a sandwich a 'Bird Dog'?

A Bird Dog sandwich is a South Carolina specialty featuring chicken tenders (the 'bird') on a hoagie roll or hot dog bun (hence the 'dog' reference), typically topped with mustard-based BBQ sauce and various toppings like pickles, onions, and sometimes cheese. It's essentially a creative fusion of a chicken sandwich and hot dog presentation.

→ Can I use a different type of chicken?

Absolutely! While traditional Bird Dog sandwiches use chicken tenders, you can substitute with chicken breast fillets, rotisserie chicken, or even leftover grilled chicken. For a quick shortcut, frozen chicken tenders work well too. Just ensure the chicken is cooked through and sliced or shaped to fit your sandwich roll.

→ What is South Carolina mustard BBQ sauce?

South Carolina mustard BBQ sauce is a regional specialty featuring yellow mustard as its base, combined with vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. It's tangier and less sweet than traditional tomato-based BBQ sauces. You can find bottled versions in many grocery stores or make your own by combining yellow mustard with apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.

→ What sides pair well with Bird Dog sandwiches?

Classic Southern sides complement Bird Dog sandwiches perfectly. Consider serving with french fries, potato chips, coleslaw, potato salad, mac and cheese, or collard greens. For a lighter option, a simple green salad or pickled vegetables work well to balance the richness of the sandwich.

→ Can I prepare these sandwiches ahead of time?

For best results, assemble Bird Dog sandwiches just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. However, you can prepare components ahead of time: cook the chicken, mix the sauce, and prep the toppings up to a day in advance. Store everything separately in the refrigerator, then quickly assemble when ready to serve. If needed for a gathering, consider setting up a build-your-own sandwich bar.

→ Are there vegetarian alternatives to this sandwich?

Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with plant-based alternatives like breaded cauliflower florets, plant-based chicken tenders, or even grilled portobello mushrooms. Keep the same tangy mustard sauce and fresh toppings for an authentic flavor profile that maintains the spirit of the original sandwich.