Chicken Jalapeño Panini

Over the weekend, Austin and I drove to Idaho Springs to meet up with some old friends from Utah.  We drank some beer (some of us maybe had a little too much), ate dinner, and just talked.

For the past two years, Austin and I have been making new friends.  It can be awkward.  Every once in a while you meet someone who you click with and things are easy, but for the most part it feels forced and hard.  You're spending your time trying to get to know them.  You put a lot of effort into really listening to them talk (admittedly, not my strong suit).  You worry about if they will like the food you made, or if they will think it is lame.

With old friends, things are easier.  Conversation flows, you have shared history and stories, and they'll like your food even if it's not fancy.

Sandwiches aren't typically thought of as "fancy," but when you turn a "sandwich" into a "panini," then it's fit for new friends too.  These chicken jalapeño paninis will please all types of friends (as long as they like food that's a little bit spicy).
CHICKEN JALAPEÑO PANINI
Amounts listed below are for one sandwich.  Adjust ingredients for # of paninis you will make.
1 chicken breast
1 egg
2 Tbsp. milk
1/2 c. bread crumbs
ciabatta
1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
1 slice gouda cheese
spicy mustard

1.  Beat together egg and milk.  Dip chicken breast in egg mixture then in bread crumbs.  Shallow fry chicken in a few tablespoons of olive oil.  Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.

2.  Assemble sandwiches.

3.  Use a panini press (or just grill in a skillet), to cook the sandwiches until ciabatta is golden brown and cheese is melted.

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