DINNER

South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches

Name: South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 hoagie rolls; 1 pound grilled chicken tenders; 8 slices of cooked bacon; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ½ cup ranch dressing; 1 cup dill pickle chips; 2 tablespoons butter

Chef Olivia

December 8, 2025
3 min read

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

why make this recipe

South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches are a delicious treat that brings the comfort of southern cooking right to your kitchen. This dish is perfect for game day, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner. With tender grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheese all piled high in buttery hoagie rolls, it’s hard to resist! Plus, it’s simple to make, and you can have it ready in no time.

how to make South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches

Ingredients:

4 hoagie rolls
1 pound grilled chicken tenders
8 slices of cooked bacon
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup ranch dressing
1 cup dill pickle chips
2 tablespoons butter

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Slice the hoagie rolls in half lengthwise, keeping them attached at one side.
Spread butter on the inside of each hoagie roll.
Place the rolls on a baking sheet and toast them in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes or until they are lightly golden and warm.
While the rolls are toasting, grill the chicken tenders until fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes on each side. If using pre-cooked grilled chicken, warm them up on a grill or in a pan.
Place the cooked chicken tenders inside the toasted hoagie rolls.
Top the chicken with 2 slices of bacon and a generous amount of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
Return the sandwiches to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Remove from the oven and drizzle ranch dressing over the melted cheese.
Evenly distribute the dill pickle chips on top for a tangy crunch.
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches!

South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches

how to serve South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches

These sandwiches are best served warm, right out of the oven. You can serve them with a side of potato chips, fries, or a fresh salad. They also pair well with cold drinks like iced tea or lemonade, making them great for gatherings or casual dinners.

how to store South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches

If you have leftovers, store the sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but this may make the bread a bit soggy.

tips to make South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken tenders in your favorite seasoning before grilling.
If you like a bit of spice, consider adding pepper jack cheese or jalapeños to the sandwich.
To save time, use pre-cooked grilled chicken from your local grocery store.

variation

Feel free to switch up the ingredients based on your taste. You can use turkey bacon for a lighter option, or add avocado slices for a creamier texture. Adding other toppings like chopped onions or hot sauce can also enhance the flavors.

FAQs

Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and assemble the sandwiches a few hours in advance. Just wait to toast the rolls until you are ready to bake them.

What can I serve with South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches?
These sandwiches go well with side dishes like coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries.

Can I freeze South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches?
It is not recommended to freeze them once assembled, as the bread can become soggy. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and then make the sandwiches fresh when you’re ready to enjoy them.