Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful and savory treat to brighten your day, these Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones are exactly what you need! They are wonderfully flaky and bursting with flavor, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a quick snack during your busy week. I love how easy they are to whip up, and they always bring smiles around the table. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy weekend at home, these scones are sure to impress!

Plus, the best part? You can easily make these ahead of time and freeze them! So when those unexpected guests arrive or you need something scrumptious in a hurry, you’ll be prepared. Let’s dive into why this recipe is such a fantastic choice!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These scones come together in just about an hour, making them a perfect last-minute addition to any meal.
• Family-Friendly: With their cheesy goodness and tender texture, everyone will be reaching for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can freeze these scones before or after baking. Just pop them in the oven whenever you need a warm treat.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of chicken ham, cheddar cheese, and chives creates an irresistible flavor profile that is sure to please.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack; these scones fit right in any time of day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create these delicious scones! You probably have many of these on hand already. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to fit your preferences or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken ham, try cooked bacon or sausage for a different twist.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some finely chopped bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
• Cheese variety: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Herb infusion: Substitute chives with fresh herbs like parsley or dill to change up the taste profile.

How to Make Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a large bowl. This step ensures that all your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which helps create light and fluffy scones.

Step 2: Add Chives and Cheese

Gently stir in the chopped chives and shredded cheddar cheese. The chives add a lovely freshness while the cheese brings that comforting richness we all adore.

Step 3: Incorporate the Butter

Grate your frozen butter using a box grater and add it to the flour mixture. Now it’s time to combine everything! Use a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingers until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. This is key because it creates those lovely layers in your scones.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the cold buttermilk and egg yolk (don’t forget to save that egg white). Pour this mixture over your dry ingredients along with the finely chopped chicken ham. Gently mix until the dough begins to clump together—don’t overmix!

Step 5: Shape Your Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, work it into a ball—don’t worry if it’s sticky; just add more flour if needed. Press it into an eight-inch disc and cut into wedges carefully. If you prefer drop scones instead of wedges, simply scoop portions onto your lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Brush with Buttermilk

Whisk together that reserved egg white with one tablespoon of buttermilk. Lightly brush this mixture onto each scone before sprinkling with flaky sea salt if desired. This will give them that beautiful golden finish as they bake!

Step 7: Chill Before Baking

Place your shaped scones on a plate or lined baking sheet and pop them into the refrigerator for at least fifteen minutes. Chilling helps them rise beautifully when baked!

Step 8: Preheat Your Oven

While those scones chill out in there, go ahead and preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving perfectly baked scones.

Step 9: Bake Them Up!

Once chilled, arrange your scones on prepared baking sheets spaced two to three inches apart. Bake them for about twenty-two to twenty-five minutes until they’re golden brown around the edges—trust me; your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy!

Let your scones cool on the baking sheets for just a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm but can be kept at room temperature for two days or refrigerated for up to five days—though I doubt they’ll last that long!

Enjoy every bite of these Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones! They truly are comfort food at its finest.

Pro Tips for Making Savory Chicken Ham & Cheese Scones

These scones are not only delicious but also simple to make! Here are some tips to ensure your scone-making experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and buttermilk cold helps create that flaky texture we all love. Cold fat creates steam in the oven, leading to perfectly risen scones.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined ensures light and tender scones. Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to a dense texture instead of the desired flakiness.
• Chill before baking: Refrigerating the formed scones for at least 15 minutes before baking helps them hold their shape. This step allows the butter to firm up again, leading to a better rise in the oven.
• Experiment with mix-ins: While this recipe calls for chicken ham, feel free to swap it out for other ingredients like cooked bacon, sausage, or even vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor twist.
• Adjust baking time if needed: If you’re making smaller or larger scones, keep an eye on them as they bake. Smaller scones will cook faster, while larger ones may need a few extra minutes in the oven.

How to Serve Savory Chicken Ham & Cheese Scones

Serving these savory delights can be just as fun as making them! They are incredibly versatile and can fit into many occasions, whether it’s brunch or a cozy dinner at home.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
• A dollop of sour cream: Serving with a side of sour cream adds creaminess and balances out the savory notes of the scones.
• Thinly sliced green onions: These add a mild onion flavor and crunch that pairs well with the richness of the cheddar cheese.

Side Dishes

• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the scones. Tossed with seasonal vegetables, it makes for a balanced meal.
• Creamy tomato soup: The comforting warmth of tomato soup makes an excellent pairing with these scones, perfect for dipping!
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring added nutrients and color to your plate while complementing the hearty nature of the scones.
• Fruit platter: A selection of fresh fruit provides a sweet counterpoint to the savory flavors, making your meal feel more complete and vibrant.

Now you’re all set to enjoy these delightful savory chicken ham & cheese scones! Whether you serve them as part of a festive brunch spread or alongside your favorite soup for dinner, they’re sure to impress. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These savory chicken ham & cheese scones are perfect for meal prep! They can be made ahead of time, stored, or even frozen for those busy days when you need a quick breakfast or snack.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them in the same container for up to 5 days.
• If you’d like to keep them from getting too soft, place a paper towel inside the container.

Freezing

• To freeze before baking, arrange unbaked scones on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Bake from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• You can also freeze baked scones; just make sure they are completely cooled before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or foil.

Reheating

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

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making savory chicken ham & cheese scones:

Can I substitute the chicken ham in the Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken ham with cooked bacon or sausage if you prefer. Just make sure it’s finely chopped to maintain the right texture.

How do I get my Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones to rise higher?

To ensure your scones rise beautifully, make sure your baking powder is fresh. Also, avoid overworking the dough once you add wet ingredients, as this can lead to denser scones.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may result in a slightly denser texture. You might want to combine it with all-purpose flour for lighter scones.

What’s the best way to serve Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones?

These scones are delightful warm and can be served on their own or with butter. They also pair wonderfully with soups or salads for a heartier meal.

How long does it take to prepare Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones?

The total time from start to finish is about an hour, including prep and bake time. It’s well worth it for such delicious results!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these savory chicken ham & cheese scones as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also versatile enough to fit into your meal prep routine. Whether you’re serving them at breakfast or enjoying them as a snack throughout the day, they’re bound to be a hit. Happy baking, and feel free to share your experience!