Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion, these Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones are just the thing! They’re not only easy to whip up but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re planning a busy weeknight dinner, a family brunch, or simply need a snack to accompany your afternoon tea, these scones will hit the spot. Each bite is filled with rich flavors and a delightful flaky texture that will have everyone coming back for more.

What makes this recipe even better is its flexibility. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. These savory delights are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have fresh scones ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Loaded with cheesy goodness and tender chicken ham, these scones are loved by kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can freeze them before or after baking, making them great for meal prep.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic powder, fresh chives, and cheddar cheese creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm out of the oven, or pack them as a tasty snack for lunch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted to see how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Most likely, you already have many of them in your pantry. Let’s get started!

For the Scone Dough

• 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 (see note)
• 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

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Replace chicken ham with cooked bacon or turkey sausage for a different flavor.
• Cheese alternatives: Feel free to use your favorite cheese like gouda or pepper jack for an extra kick.
• Herb infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as parsley or rosemary for unique flavor profiles.
• Extra veggies: Add some finely chopped spinach or bell peppers into the dough for added nutrition and color.

How to Make Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

Step 1: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking the flour, sugar, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper together in a large bowl. This step is essential as it ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. Next, stir in the fresh chives and shredded cheese to add bursts of flavor.

Step 2: Incorporate Frozen Butter

Grate the frozen butter using a box grater straight into the flour mixture. This technique helps create those lovely flaky layers we all love in scones. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to combine until it resembles pea-sized crumbs. It’s okay if it looks a bit messy—this will come together soon!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 2/3 cup buttermilk and the egg yolk (make sure to save that egg white!). Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients along with your chopped chicken ham. Mix gently until everything clumps together into a sticky dough.

Step 4: Shape Your Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface. With floured hands, gently knead it into a ball—don’t worry if it’s sticky; that’s normal! If it feels too wet, add a little more flour; if too dry, incorporate an extra tablespoon of buttermilk. Flatten it into an 8-inch disc and cut into wedges.

Step 5: Brush with Buttermilk Mixture

Whisk together the reserved egg white with one tablespoon of buttermilk. Brush this mixture lightly on top of each scone before sprinkling with flaky sea salt if desired. This will give your scones that beautiful golden-brown finish when baked.

Step 6: Chill Before Baking

Place your scones on a plate or lined baking sheet and refrigerate them for at least 15 minutes. This step is key—it helps maintain their shape during baking while enhancing their texture.

Step 7: Preheat Your Oven

While your scones chill out in the fridge, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). A hot oven will help them rise beautifully!

Step 8: Arrange and Bake

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mats. Once chilled, arrange your scones about 2–3 inches apart on the prepared sheet. Bake them for about 22–25 minutes until they turn golden brown around the edges.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let cool slightly on the baking sheets before serving warm. Trust me; there’s nothing quite like biting into one fresh from the oven!

Leftover scones can be stored at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for five days—though they might get softer by day two.

Enjoy making these delightful Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones! They’re sure to become a favorite in your home just as they have in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Savory Chicken Ham & Cheese Scones

Making the perfect savory chicken ham & cheese scones is all about technique and a little love in the kitchen. Follow these tips to ensure your scones turn out flaky, tender, and bursting with flavor!

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and buttermilk cold helps create that delightful flaky texture as the fat melts during baking, creating steam pockets.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined prevents the gluten from developing too much, which can lead to tough scones. A light hand is key!

• Chill before baking: Refrigerating your shaped scones for at least 15 minutes before baking helps them maintain their shape and enhances the rise in the oven.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to customize your scones with different herbs, cheeses, or even vegetables. Fresh ingredients can add new dimensions to flavor.

• Check for doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your scones towards the end of baking. They should be golden brown on the edges and lightly browned on top.

How to Serve Savory Chicken Ham & Cheese Scones

These savory delights are perfect for breakfast or brunch and can be served warm or at room temperature. Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the flavors of the scones.

• Cheese topping: Grate a little extra cheese on top before baking for a cheesy crust that accentuates every bite.

Side Dishes

• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the scones while adding freshness.

• Fruit platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits makes for a refreshing side that pairs perfectly with these savory scones, providing a sweet contrast.

• Vegetable soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup offers comfort alongside your scones. The hearty flavors work well together, especially on chilly days.

• Yogurt dip: Serve with a side of plain Greek yogurt mixed with herbs for dipping; it adds creaminess that enhances each bite of scone.

Enjoy your savory chicken ham & cheese scones fresh out of the oven or as part of a delightful spread. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These savory chicken ham & cheese scones are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent option to have on hand for breakfast or snacks throughout the week. You can prepare them in advance, store them properly, and even freeze them for future enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze before baking: Arrange unbaked scones on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be baked from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• To freeze after baking: Allow baked scones to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual scones for about 20-30 seconds, though they may lose some of their crispiness.

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common inquiries about these delightful scones!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique twist.

What can I replace the chicken ham with in Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones?

You can easily swap out the chicken ham with cooked bacon, sausage, or even vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetarian option.

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

Your scones should be golden brown around the edges and lightly browned on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when they are fully baked.

Can I make Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones ahead of time?

Yes! These scones are great for meal prep. You can prepare and bake them ahead of time or freeze them unbaked for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these savory chicken ham & cheese scones! Their flaky texture and rich flavors make them a special treat that’s perfect any time of day. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the oven or reheating leftovers, they’re sure to delight you and your family. Happy baking!

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