Marinate the chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.

In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip in buttermilk again, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.

Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.

Fry the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.

Remove from the pan and let drain on paper towels.

In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well.

Spread garlic mayo on the bottom half of each toasted bun.

Add a layer of lettuce, followed by the fried chicken, tomato slices, and cheese if using.

Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.