Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch, these Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones are just the ticket! They are fluffy, flavorful, and wonderfully easy to whip up. The combination of savory chicken ham and melted cheese creates a warm embrace of flavors that will make your kitchen smell heavenly. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, enjoying a cozy weekend brunch, or need a quick snack during busy weekdays, these scones will quickly become a favorite in your home.

The best part? You can prepare them in advance and freeze them for later. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy! Trust me, once you take a bite of these scones, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These scones come together in under an hour, making them perfect for last-minute cravings.
• Freezer Friendly: Bake a batch and freeze them for future breakfasts or snacks. They’re great reheated!
• Customizable: Feel free to switch out ingredients based on what you have on hand. These scones are flexible!
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness and savory flavor.
• Deliciously Flaky: The combination of cold butter and buttermilk creates that irresistible flaky texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these savory scones is a breeze with simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your pantry! 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

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

• Swap the protein: Replace chicken ham with cooked turkey ham or even some crispy cooked bacon for a different twist!
• Add veggies: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese swap: Try using different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick!
• Herb it up: Add other fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to elevate the flavor even more.

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 pepper in a large bowl. This step is important because it ensures that all your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Next, stir in the chives and shredded cheese. The cheese adds a delicious richness that complements the chicken ham so well!

Step 2: Incorporate the Butter

Grate the frozen butter using a box grater directly into your dry mixture. This method is key as it helps create those lovely flaky layers in your scones. Gently mix with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. It’s okay if there are some larger bits—those will melt beautifully while baking!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg yolk until smooth. Pour this mixture over the flour blend along with the chopped chicken ham. Gently mix until everything clumps together into a dough. Be careful not to overmix—this helps keep your scones tender.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Transfer your dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, gently shape it into a ball—don’t worry if it feels sticky! If it’s too wet, add more flour bit by bit; if too dry, add more buttermilk as needed. Flatten it into an 8-inch disc and cut into wedges with a sharp knife.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash

Whisk together the reserved egg white with one tablespoon of buttermilk. Brush this mixture lightly over each scone before sprinkling them with flaky sea salt if desired. This step gives them that beautiful golden color when baked!

Step 6: Chill Before Baking

Place your shaped scones on a plate or lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. Chilling helps solidify the butter again which results in extra flaky scones after baking!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper if you’re making mini scones. After chilling, arrange your scones on the prepared sheets about two inches apart.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Bake for about 22–25 minutes until they’re golden brown around the edges and lightly browned on top. Allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheets before serving warm—trust me; they’re best fresh out of the oven!

Leftover scones keep well at room temperature for two days or can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Enjoy these scrumptious Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones any time of day!

Pro Tips for Making Savory Chicken Ham & Cheese Scones

Creating perfect scones can be a delightful experience with just a few helpful tips to ensure they turn out flaky and flavorful!

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keeping your butter and buttermilk cold before mixing helps create that flaky texture we all love. Cold fat doesn’t melt too quickly, allowing steam to create layers as the scones bake.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Gently mixing until just combined prevents the gluten in the flour from developing too much, which keeps your scones tender rather than tough.

• Chill Before Baking: Refrigerating the shaped scones before baking not only helps maintain their shape but also promotes a better rise and flakiness.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your scones! Adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or different cheeses can bring new flavors and textures to the dish.

• Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on your scones during baking. It’s better to bake them until they are golden brown around the edges; this ensures they’re cooked through while staying moist inside.

How to Serve Savory Chicken Ham & Cheese Scones

These savory scones make for a delightful breakfast or snack and can easily be dressed up for any occasion. Here are some ideas on how to serve them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley on top adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile.
• A dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream: This creamy addition provides a tangy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the savory scone.
• A drizzle of honey: For those who enjoy sweet and savory combinations, a light drizzle of honey can add an unexpected but delicious twist.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the scones while adding freshness. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra crunch!

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the scones. Use seasonal fruits for maximum flavor!

• Vegetable Soup: Pairing these scones with a warm bowl of vegetable soup makes for a comforting meal. The hearty soup balances nicely with the flaky texture of the scones.

• Cheese Platter: Create a small cheese platter featuring soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie alongside crackers. This variety pairs beautifully with your chicken ham & cheese scones for an elegant touch.

Enjoy these tips and serving suggestions as you whip up your batch of savory chicken ham & cheese scones! They are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

These savory chicken ham & cheese scones are perfect for meal prep! They can be made ahead of time and stored for later, making them a convenient option for busy mornings or unexpected guests.

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.
• To maintain their texture, let them cool completely before storing.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked scones by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• You can also freeze baked scones. Just ensure they’re completely cooled before wrapping them tightly.
• When ready to bake from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the baking time without thawing.

Reheating

• 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, but this may affect their texture.

FAQs

Have questions about these savory chicken ham & cheese scones? Here are some common inquiries!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the cheddar with your favorite cheese varieties such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.

How can I adjust the recipe for smaller Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones?

To make mini scones, simply divide the dough into smaller portions—aim for about 10-12 drop scones. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto your baking sheet instead of cutting wedges.

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

Yes! These scones are great for meal prep. You can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freeze them for later enjoyment.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels overly sticky during preparation, just sprinkle in a little more flour until it’s manageable. Remember that a slightly sticky dough is normal!

Can I replace chicken ham with something else in the Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones?

Certainly! You can omit the chicken ham altogether or opt for cooked bacon or sausage as tasty alternatives.

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 and easy to whip up. Whether you treat yourself to a warm batch on a cozy morning or impress friends at brunch, these scones are sure to be a hit. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!