# What You'll Need:
→ Chicken
01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
02 - 1 tablespoon hot sauce (e.g., Frank's RedHot or Sriracha)
03 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
06 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Crispy Coating
09 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
→ Sandwich Components
11 - 8 slices thick-cut bread (such as sourdough or country white)
12 - 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese
13 - 4 slices pepper jack cheese
14 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
# How To Make It:
01 - Set oven to 400°F.
02 - Combine shredded chicken with hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper ensuring even coating.
03 - Spread panko on a baking sheet, drizzle with melted butter, and toast in the oven for 5–7 minutes, stirring once until golden and crisp; allow to cool slightly.
04 - Fold crispy panko into the spicy chicken mixture until thoroughly mixed.
05 - Butter one side of each bread slice evenly.
06 - On the unbuttered side of four bread slices, layer one slice cheddar, a generous portion of spicy crispy chicken, one slice pepper jack, and one more slice cheddar; top with remaining bread slices, buttered side outward.
07 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat; cook each sandwich 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese melts.
08 - Remove sandwiches from heat, rest for 1–2 minutes, slice in half, and serve warm.