Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy snack with tea, you’ve come to the right place! These Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Imagine biting into a warm, flaky scone bursting with savory flavors and cheesy goodness—what’s not to love?

This recipe has become a family favorite in our home because it brings everyone together, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend gathering. Plus, they’re great for meal prep! You can whip up a batch and enjoy them fresh or freeze them for later. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up these scones in just an hour, making them perfect for busy mornings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy flavor and soft texture.
• Make-Ahead Delight: Freeze before or after baking for an easy snack anytime!
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite add-ins or swaps.
• Perfectly Flaky: The secret to the best scones is in the cold butter and careful mixing—get ready for a flaky bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These scones are made from simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Gather these items, and let’s get started on creating something special!

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled), plus more for hands and work surface
• 1 Tablespoon (12g) granulated sugar
• 2 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 Tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 1 cup (about 100g or 3.5 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, frozen
• 2/3 cup (160ml) cold buttermilk, plus 1 Tablespoon for brushing
• 1 large egg, separated
• 3/4 cup (about 110g or 3 oz) finely chopped chicken ham
• optional for topping: flaky sea salt

Variations

One of the best things about these savory scones is their flexibility! You can easily adapt them to suit your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use cooked bacon or turkey sausage instead of chicken ham for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some finely chopped spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley to change the flavor profile.
• Cheese options: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied tastes.

How to Make Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together all the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Combine your flour, sugar, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This step is crucial as it ensures that everything is evenly distributed before adding the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Add Chives and Cheese

Stir in the chopped chives and shredded cheddar cheese until well mixed. The cheese adds richness while the chives bring a fresh flavor that truly elevates these scones.

Step 3: Incorporate Frozen Butter

Using a box grater, grate your frozen butter into the flour mixture. It’s important to keep the butter cold as it creates those lovely flaky layers when baked. Mix until you get pea-sized crumbs either with your fingers, two forks, or a pastry cutter.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the cold buttermilk and egg yolk. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients along with the chicken ham. Stir gently until everything comes together in a tacky dough—you want to avoid overmixing here.

Step 5: Shape Your Scones

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, form it into a ball as best you can before pressing it down into an eight-inch disc. Cut into wedges or make drop scones by scooping tablespoonfuls onto your baking sheet.

Step 6: Brush and Chill

Whisk together the leftover egg white with buttermilk and brush this mixture over your formed scones. If desired, sprinkle them with flaky sea salt for an extra touch of flavor. Now, refrigerate them for at least fifteen minutes; this helps maintain their shape while baking.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Once preheated, arrange your chilled scones on a lined baking sheet about two to three inches apart. Bake for about twenty-two to twenty-five minutes until they are golden brown around the edges.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

After removing them from the oven, let your savory chicken ham & cheese scones cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm but will stay delicious at room temperature too!

Now you’re ready to indulge in these delightful scones! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Savory Chicken Ham & Cheese Scones

Making these scones is a delightful journey, and with a few simple tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use frozen butter: Grating frozen butter into your dry ingredients creates those flaky layers that make scones so delicious. The cold butter melts during baking, producing steam that puffs up the dough.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Gently mixing until just combined helps maintain a tender texture. Overmixing can lead to tough scones, so be kind to your dough!

• Chill before baking: Refrigerating the shaped scones for at least 15 minutes allows the butter to firm up again. This step helps keep their shape while baking and enhances the flakiness.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to swap out chicken ham for other cooked meats like turkey or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version. This flexibility makes the recipe versatile and perfect for your taste!

• Brush with buttermilk: A light brush of buttermilk gives your scones a beautiful golden color and enhances their flavor. It’s an easy step that makes a big difference!

How to Serve Savory Chicken Ham & Cheese Scones

These savory delights are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying them at breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. Here are some delightful ways to present them:

Garnishes

• Chopped herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or extra chives sprinkled on top add a pop of color and freshness.
• Flaky sea salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before baking not only enhances flavor but also adds an appealing crunch.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the scones without overpowering them.
• Tomato soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup is perfect for dunking! The flavors meld beautifully, making it a comforting pairing.
• Fruit platter: Fresh fruits like berries or slices of melon provide a refreshing contrast to the savory scones, balancing flavors nicely.
• Yogurt parfait: Serve some creamy yogurt layered with granola and fruit on the side for a sweet contrast that pairs wonderfully with these savory treats.

Enjoy crafting these delightful scones and serving them in style!

Make Ahead and Storage

These savory chicken ham & cheese scones are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast or snack any day of the week! You can easily make them in advance and store them for later, ensuring you always have something tasty on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover scones at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze before baking: Arrange unbaked scones on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• To freeze after baking: Allow scones to cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating

• Reheat frozen scones directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• For refrigerated scones, microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm them in the oven until heated through.

FAQs

If you’re curious about making these savory treats, here are some frequently asked questions.

Can I use different types of cheese in Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta. Just ensure that the cheese is shredded or crumbled for even mixing.

How do I make Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones less sticky?

If your dough is too sticky to handle, simply add a little more flour while mixing until it reaches a workable consistency. Don’t be afraid to adjust based on your environment!

Can I skip the chicken ham in my Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones?

Yes! You can omit the chicken ham entirely or substitute it with cooked bacon, sausage, or even diced vegetables for a vegetarian version.

How do I know when my Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones are done baking?

Look for golden brown edges and a lightly browned top. The scones should feel firm but soft when gently pressed.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these savory chicken ham & cheese scones as much as I do! They’re not just delicious but also incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether you whip them up for breakfast or as a snack during the day, they’re sure to bring joy to your table. Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to try this delightful recipe!

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