Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

These Savory chicken ham & cheese scones are perfect for any occasion, be it a cozy brunch or a delightful snack. With their flaky texture and rich flavors, these scones will impress your family and friends. Easy to make and versatile, you can enjoy them fresh from the oven or freeze them for later use. Plus, they can be customized with your favorite ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: Each bite is filled with delicious chicken ham and gooey cheese, making them irresistible.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack; they fit any meal or occasion.
• Easy to prepare: With simple steps, you can whip these up in no time.
• Freezable: You can freeze these scones before or after baking for a quick treat any day.
• Customizable: Feel free to substitute the chicken ham with other ingredients if desired.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your savory scones turn out perfectly, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Box grater
• Pastry cutter or forks
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all your dry ingredients and wet mixtures effectively.
• Box grater: Grating frozen butter helps create the flaky texture that makes scones so delightful.
• Pastry cutter: This tool helps mix butter into flour without overworking the dough, keeping it light and airy.

Ingredients

These savory chicken ham & cheese scones are packed with flavor and have a delightfully flaky, soft interior. You can freeze the scones before or after baking. You can also skip the chicken ham or replace it with cooked bacon or sausage. Review recipe Notes before beginning.

Dry Ingredients

• 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

Flavor Enhancers

• 3 Tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 1 cup (about 100g or 3.5 oz) shredded cheddar cheese

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, frozen
• 2/3 cup (160ml) cold buttermilk, plus 1 Tablespoon for brushing
• 1 large egg, separated

Main Ingredient

• 3/4 cup (about 110g or 3 oz) finely chopped chicken ham

Optional Topping

• Flaky sea salt

How to Make Savory Chicken Ham & Cheese Scones

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Stir in the chives and shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.

Step 2: Incorporate Butter

Grate the frozen butter using a box grater. Add it to the flour mixture. Combine it using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingers until you achieve pea-sized crumbs. Place this mixture in the refrigerator while preparing wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 2/3 cup of buttermilk and the egg yolk (set aside the egg white). Pour this mixture over the flour mixture along with the chopped chicken ham. Mix until the dough clumps together.

Step 4: Shape Dough

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. With floured hands, form it into a ball as best you can—it may be sticky. If too sticky, sprinkle in more flour; if too dry, add more buttermilk gradually. Flatten into an 8-inch disc.

Step 5: Cut Scones

Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the disc into 8 wedges for triangle scones. For drop scones, mix until combined in a bowl then drop about 1/4 cup of dough onto lined baking sheets spaced 3 inches apart.

Step 6: Brush and Chill

Whisk together 1 tablespoon of buttermilk with reserved egg white. Lightly brush this mixture onto each scone top and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Place on a plate or lined baking sheet to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

While chilling, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).

Step 8: Bake Scones

Once chilled, arrange scones on prepared baking sheets spaced apart. Bake for about 22-25 minutes until golden brown around edges and lightly browned on top. Cool on sheets for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy these delicious savory chicken ham & cheese scones fresh out of the oven! Leftovers keep well at room temperature for two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days—though they tend to soften by day two!

How to Serve Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

Serving savory chicken ham & cheese scones is a delightful experience. Their flaky texture and rich flavor make them a perfect accompaniment to various dishes or as a standalone snack. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your enjoyment of these scones.

With a Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the scones and adds a refreshing crunch.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Serve alongside eggs, fresh fruit, and yogurt for a well-rounded brunch that everyone will enjoy.

With Soup

• Pair with a bowl of hearty tomato or vegetable soup for dipping, enhancing both flavors beautifully.

As an Appetizer

• Cut into small pieces and serve with dips like hummus or tzatziki for an easy appetizer at gatherings.

With Cheese Platter

• Include on a cheese board with assorted cheeses, olives, and nuts for an impressive display at parties.

Toasted with Butter

• Lightly toast the scones and spread with butter or your favorite spread for an indulgent treat.

How to Perfect Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

Perfecting savory chicken ham & cheese scones requires attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips to ensure your scones turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keep your butter and buttermilk cold before mixing; this helps create flaky layers in the scone.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overworking the dough can lead to tough scones instead of tender ones.

• Chill Before Baking: Refrigerating the shaped scones helps maintain their structure while baking, resulting in better rise and texture.

• Adjust Flour as Needed: If your dough is too sticky, add more flour gradually. Too dry? Incorporate additional buttermilk slowly until the right consistency is achieved.

• Bake on High Heat: Preheat your oven adequately; baking at 400°F (204°C) ensures they puff up nicely and develop a golden crust.

• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or thyme for added depth of flavor that complements the cheese.

Best Side Dishes for Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

Savory chicken ham & cheese scones pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Whether you’re looking for something light or hearty, here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mix of arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes dressed in olive oil provides freshness against the savory scones.

2. Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup brings comfort and pairs nicely for a fulfilling meal.

3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness that balances the savoriness of the scones perfectly.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables seasoned with herbs offer a colorful side that enhances any meal’s nutrition profile.

5. Cheese Board: An assortment of cheeses, crackers, and fruits creates a lovely pairing for enjoying alongside warm scones during gatherings.

6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles can cut through the richness of the scone while adding an exciting flavor contrast.

7. Dipping Sauces: Prepare dips like avocado yogurt or spicy aioli for an interactive experience when enjoying your scones.

8. Herbed Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed dish is flavorful and complements the cheesy notes from the scones while adding texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making savory chicken ham & cheese scones can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final product.

• Incorrect Measurements: Failing to measure ingredients accurately can lead to dry or dense scones. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.

• Overworking the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can make the scones tough. Combine ingredients until just mixed for a light and fluffy texture.

• Skipping Chilling Time: Not refrigerating the dough before baking can result in flat scones. Allowing them to chill helps maintain their shape and texture while baking.

• Using Warm Ingredients: Starting with warm butter or buttermilk can affect the texture. Always use cold ingredients to achieve a flaky consistency.

• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your oven properly and check it with an oven thermometer if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

• Freeze before baking for up to 3 months.
• Wrap individually in plastic wrap then place in a freezer bag for best results.

Reheating Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these savory chicken ham & cheese scones special?

These scones are special because they combine tender, flaky textures with savory flavors from cheese and chicken ham, making them perfect for any meal or snack.

Can I customize the ingredients in savory chicken ham & cheese scones?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken ham with turkey, beef, or omit it entirely. Feel free to add other herbs or spices that you enjoy!

How do I know when my savory chicken ham & cheese scones are done baking?

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

Can I make these savory chicken ham & cheese scones ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake, or you can freeze them before baking as mentioned earlier.

Final Thoughts

Savory chicken ham & cheese scones are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a great addition to brunches, picnics, or even as a quick snack. With options for customization, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Give them a try today!