Spicy Crispy Chicken Cheese (Printable Version)

A bold mix of spicy shredded chicken and melted cheese layered inside crispy golden bread.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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)
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

# Directions:

01 - Preheat 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; mix thoroughly.
03 - Spread panko breadcrumbs on a baking sheet, drizzle with melted butter, toss to coat evenly, and bake for 5 to 7 minutes until golden and crisp, stirring once; allow to cool slightly.
04 - Stir the toasted panko breadcrumbs into the spiced chicken mixture until well incorporated.
05 - Arrange eight bread slices and spread softened butter on one side of each slice.
06 - On the unbuttered side of four bread slices, layer one slice cheddar cheese, a generous portion of the spicy crispy chicken mixture, one slice pepper jack cheese, and a final slice of cheddar cheese; top with the remaining four slices of bread, buttered side outward.
07 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat; cook sandwiches for 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, then slice in half and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The contrast between soft, gooey cheese and crispy, spiced chicken is absolutely addictive in a way plain grilled cheese never achieves.
  • It comes together faster than takeout, but tastes like you've been simmering flavors all day.
  • One sandwich somehow manages to feel both indulgent and packed with actual protein, so you're not left hungry an hour later.
02 -
  • If you skip toasting the panko first, it will absorb moisture from the chicken and turn soggy instead of staying crispy—this is the one non-negotiable step.
  • Medium heat is essential; high heat will char your bread before the cheese melts, and you'll be left with a cold center and burnt outside.
03 -
  • Toast your panko ahead of time and store it in an airtight container—it's one less thing to manage when you're ready to cook.
  • Prepare your chicken and spice mixture the morning of if you're feeding a crowd, then just assemble and cook when everyone arrives.
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