Description
This Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich combines tender shredded chicken tossed in a fiery blend of hot sauce and spices, coated with buttery toasted panko breadcrumbs for an irresistible crunch. Layered with sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheeses between thick-cut, buttery bread slices, then skillet-grilled to golden perfection, this sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Mixture
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (e.g., Franks RedHot or Sriracha)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Crispy Coating
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Bread and Cheese
- 8 slices thick-cut bread (e.g., sourdough or country white)
- 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for spreading on bread)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for toasting the panko breadcrumbs.
- Prepare Spicy Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, optional cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated with the spice mixture.
- Toast Panko Breadcrumbs: Spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly on a baking sheet. Drizzle the melted butter over them and toss to coat well. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the breadcrumbs turn golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Combine Breadcrumbs and Chicken: Stir the toasted panko breadcrumbs into the spicy chicken mixture until the breadcrumbs are well-distributed, adding a crispy texture to the chicken.
- Prepare Bread Slices: Arrange the 8 slices of bread on a flat surface. Spread the softened unsalted butter evenly on one side of each slice; these buttered sides will face outward when cooking.
- Assemble Sandwiches: On the unbuttered side of 4 slices of bread, layer one slice of sharp cheddar cheese, then a generous amount of the spicy crispy chicken mixture, one slice of pepper jack cheese, followed by another slice of sharp cheddar cheese. Top each with one of the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
- Cook Sandwiches: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula to ensure even browning and melting of the cheese. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the cooked sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly. Slice each sandwich in half and serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Use thick-cut bread to hold the filling better and prevent sogginess.
- Butter the bread slices well to ensure a crispy and golden exterior when skillet cooking.
- For a crispier chicken coating, make sure the panko breadcrumbs are toasted to a rich golden brown before mixing.
- If desired, you can substitute the cheeses or add extras like pickles or lettuce for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: spicy chicken sandwich, crispy chicken sandwich, skillet sandwich, toasted panko chicken, hot sauce chicken sandwich
