Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that can brighten up your breakfast or snack time, then these Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones are just what you need. They’re soft, flaky, and packed with mouthwatering flavors that will make your taste buds dance! Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply need a quick bite on a busy weekday, these scones are the perfect solution.

I love how versatile this recipe is; you can whip it up in no time and enjoy them warm from the oven, or save some for later. Plus, they freeze beautifully, making them an ideal option for meal prep. Trust me, once you try these savory scones, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have these scones ready to bake.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love the cheesy goodness and savory chicken ham—perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can freeze the scones before or after baking. Enjoy them when the craving hits!
• Deliciously versatile: Skip the chicken ham or switch it up with cooked bacon or sausage for different flavor profiles.
• Perfect for any occasion: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack with soup—these scones fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these scrumptious Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating that perfect flaky texture and rich flavor.

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
• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with different ingredients to suit your preferences.

• Swap the protein: Substitute chicken ham with cooked bacon or sausage for a hearty twist.
• Mix up the cheese: Try different types of cheese like pepper jack or mozzarella for varied flavors.
• Add veggies: Toss in some finely chopped bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs such as parsley or dill to enhance freshness.

How to Make Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This step is essential because it ensures that the leavening agents are well distributed throughout the dough. Then stir in those fragrant chives and delicious shredded cheese to bring even more flavor to your scones.

Step 2: Incorporate Frozen Butter

Next, grab your box grater and grate that frozen butter right into your flour mixture. This is crucial because using cold butter helps create those lovely flaky layers we all adore in scones. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until you achieve pea-sized crumbs. Remember to keep this mixture cold—pop it in the fridge while you prep the wet ingredients!

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to whisk together the buttermilk and egg yolk in another bowl. This combination adds moisture and richness to your dough. After whisking, pour this mixture over your dry ingredients along with the chopped chicken ham. Gently mix until everything clumps together; don’t overwork it!

Step 4: Shape Your Dough

Turn your sticky dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Using floured hands (and maybe some extra flour if needed), form it into a rough ball. It’s okay if it’s sticky—that’s part of making tender scones! Flatten the dough into an eight-inch disc and cut it into wedges using a sharp knife.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

For that beautiful golden finish on your scones, whisk together buttermilk with reserved egg white and brush it on top of each wedge. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top before refrigerating them for about 15 minutes. Chilling helps maintain their shape while baking!

Step 6: Bake Away!

Preheat your oven while those scones chill out in the fridge—this step is key to achieving that perfect rise! Once ready, place them on a lined baking sheet spaced apart so they have room to grow during baking. Pop them into your preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) and bake until they turn golden brown around the edges—about 22-25 minutes should do it.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Let your savory chicken ham & cheese scones cool slightly on the baking sheets before serving them warm. Trust me; there’s nothing like breaking open a fresh scone to enjoy that gooey cheese inside! Leftovers can be stored at room temperature for two days or refrigerated for up to five days.

Enjoy every bite of these delightful scones—they’re sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Savory Chicken Ham & Cheese Scones

These savory scones are a delightful treat, and with a few handy tips, you’ll make them even better!

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and buttermilk cold helps create those signature flaky layers in the scones. Warm ingredients can lead to dense scones, so make sure everything is chilled before you start mixing.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Overworking the dough can result in tough scones. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender, fluffy texture.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to swap out chicken ham for other cooked meats like turkey or even veggies! This versatility allows you to customize the scones based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Chill before baking: Allowing the shaped scones to chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes helps them maintain their shape while baking. Plus, it enhances the flakiness!
• Check for doneness: Keep a close eye on your scones as they bake. They’re done when they’re golden brown around the edges and lightly browned on top; this ensures they are perfectly baked without being dry.

How to Serve Savory Chicken Ham & Cheese Scones

Serving these savory treats can be as simple or as fancy as you’d like! Here are some fun ways to present your delicious scones that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh chives or parsley on top just before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
• Butter or spread: Serve warm with a pat of herbed butter or cream cheese spread to enhance the rich flavors of the scone.

Side Dishes

• Fresh salad: A light mixed greens salad drizzled with vinaigrette balances the richness of the scones perfectly.
• Soup: Pair these scones with a bowl of tomato basil soup for a comforting meal that’s perfect any time of year.
• Fruit platter: A selection of seasonal fruits adds freshness and sweetness that complements the savory notes in the scones.
• Vegetable sticks with dip: Crunchy carrot and cucumber sticks served with hummus or ranch dressing make for a refreshing side that’s great for snacking.

Enjoy these delightful savory chicken ham & cheese scones during breakfast, brunch, or any time you need a comforting snack!

Make Ahead and Storage

These savory chicken ham & cheese scones are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance, making breakfast or snacks a breeze throughout the week. Here’s how to store them properly so they stay delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If you notice they are becoming softer over time, simply pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to refresh them.

Freezing

• To freeze scones, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the scones to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat frozen scones directly from the freezer without thawing.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating refrigerated scones, they will only need about 5-8 minutes in the same preheated oven.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delightful scones, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

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

Absolutely! You can skip the chicken ham altogether or replace it with cooked bacon or sausage if you prefer.

How do I make Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones gluten-free?

To make these scones gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Just ensure that it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

What can I serve with my Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones?

These scones pair wonderfully with a light salad or can be enjoyed alongside your favorite soup for a comforting meal.

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

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for unique flavors. Just ensure it’s shredded for easy incorporation into the dough.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these savory chicken ham & cheese scones as much as I do! They’re not just tasty but also versatile and convenient for any time of day. Whether you’re serving them fresh out of the oven or enjoying leftovers later in the week, they’re sure to delight. Happy baking and savor every bite!