Ingredients
Method
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
2. Prepare the Bread:
- Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread. For extra crispiness, you can also spread a light layer of mayonnaise over the buttered side (optional).
- On the unbuttered side, place a slice of cheese on each piece of bread.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
- Add sliced chicken to the cheese-covered side of two bread slices.
- Add any optional toppings, such as tomato slices, spinach, or crispy bacon.
- Top with another slice of cheese, then place the remaining bread slices on top (buttered side facing outward).
4. Cook the Sandwich:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
- Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the skillet, slice in half, and serve hot.
Notes
- Customize Your Sandwich: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, bread, and sauces to suit your taste preferences.
- Make It Healthier: Use whole-grain bread, reduced-fat cheese, or grilled chicken to lighten up the recipe.
- Reheating Tip: To keep the bread crispy, reheat leftovers in a skillet or toaster oven instead of a microwave.
- Freezing: Assemble the sandwich without cooking it and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store in the freezer for up to 1 month. Cook straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Serving Idea: Pair the sandwich with a side of tomato soup, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.