# What You'll Need:
→ Chicken
01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
02 - 1 tablespoon hot sauce (e.g., Franks 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, for extra heat)
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 (e.g., 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 - Heat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
02 - Combine shredded chicken with hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly mixed.
03 - Spread panko breadcrumbs on a baking sheet, drizzle with melted butter, toss to coat evenly, then bake for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring once until golden and crisp. Allow to cool slightly.
04 - Fold the toasted panko into the spicy chicken mixture until well distributed.
05 - Lay out all bread slices and butter one side of each evenly with softened butter.
06 - On the unbuttered side of four bread slices, layer one slice of cheddar, a generous amount of the spicy crispy chicken mixture, one slice of pepper jack, and another slice of cheddar. Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side facing outward.
07 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook assembled sandwiches 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
08 - Remove sandwiches from heat, let rest for 1 to 2 minutes, slice in half, and serve immediately.