Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s perfect for busy mornings or cozy family gatherings, these Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones are just what you need! They’re filled with savory goodness and have a flaky, tender texture that will make everyone at the table smile. I love how versatile these scones are; whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as a make-ahead snack, they never disappoint.

Imagine serving these warm scones with a side of your favorite jam or a simple salad for brunch. They’re not just delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have these scones ready to bake in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy flavor, and they make a fantastic snack or breakfast option that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile: Whether you’re making them for breakfast or an afternoon tea, these scones fit any occasion perfectly.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can freeze them before or after baking, so you always have a delicious treat on hand.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients based on what you have at home!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our savory chicken ham & cheese scones. This recipe is all about using what you already have in your pantry, so let’s get started!

• 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 flexible! You can easily adapt it based on your preferences or what you have in your kitchen. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken ham, try using cooked bacon or turkey sausage for a different flavor.
• Add veggies: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or spinach into the dough for added nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack to switch up the flavor profile.
• Make them mini: For bite-sized treats, shape smaller scones or drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet.

How to Make Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures that every bite of your scone is flavorful. Then stir in the chives and shredded cheese—this adds an extra layer of taste that makes these scones irresistible!

Step 2: Incorporate Butter

Next, grate the frozen butter directly into your flour mixture. This step is crucial because it creates those lovely flaky layers we all adore in baked goods. Use a pastry cutter, two forks, or even your fingers to blend until you achieve pea-sized crumbs. Once done, place this mixture in the refrigerator while we prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the cold buttermilk and egg yolk until smooth. The buttermilk adds moisture while helping develop those soft textures. Pour this mixture over your dry ingredients along with the chopped chicken ham. Mix gently until everything clumps together—don’t overdo it; we want those scones light!

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Turn the sticky dough out onto a floured surface and work it into a ball as best as you can with floured hands. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour; if it seems dry, add just a tablespoon more of buttermilk. Press it into an eight-inch disc and cut it into wedges. Alternatively, scoop out spoonfuls for drop scones if you prefer less fuss.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Mix one tablespoon of buttermilk with the reserved egg white to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture lightly on top of each scone and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired—this gives them an extra crunch! Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 6: Chill Before Baking

Now comes an important step—chill! Refrigerate your shaped scones for at least fifteen minutes. This helps solidify the butter again so that when they bake, they puff up beautifully.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Once heated, bake those delicious scones for about twenty-two to twenty-five minutes until golden brown around the edges. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!

Allow your savory chicken ham & cheese scones to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving—they’re best enjoyed warm!

These delightful scones are perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Enjoy every fluffy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Savory Chicken Ham & Cheese Scones

Making these scones is a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and buttermilk cold helps maintain the flaky texture of the scones. Warm ingredients can lead to dense scones instead of the desired light and airy texture.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined. Overworking the dough can result in tough scones, so be gentle when bringing everything together.

• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the shaped scones before baking helps them hold their shape and achieve a better rise while baking. Even a quick 15-minute chill makes a difference!

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to switch up the chicken ham with other cooked meats like turkey or even vegetables if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. This allows for customization based on your dietary preferences and taste.

• Store properly: If you plan on saving some for later, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents sogginess.

How to Serve Savory Chicken Ham & Cheese Scones

These savory delights are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a snack. Here are some great ideas to present and enjoy them!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or extra chives on top of the scones right before serving for an added burst of fresh flavor.
• Honey or jam: A small dish of honey or your favorite jam alongside the scones provides a sweet contrast to their savory profile.
• Cheese slices: A few slices of additional cheddar cheese served on the side can enhance the cheesy goodness while inviting guests to customize their bites.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the richness of the scones.
• Fruit platter: Serve a colorful assortment of seasonal fruits like berries, melon, and grapes for a refreshing complement that brightens up your meal.
• Vegetable soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup pairs beautifully with these scones, creating a comforting meal perfect for chilly days.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs make an excellent side dish that rounds out your breakfast spread while providing additional protein to fuel your day.

Enjoy creating these delicious savory chicken ham & cheese scones! Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply as a treat at home, they’re sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

These savory chicken ham & cheese scones are perfect for meal prep, making them a delightful option for busy mornings or quick snacks. You can easily store them, freeze them, or even prepare the dough ahead of time for convenience.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, place them in the refrigerator where they’ll last up to 5 days.
• Keep in mind that scones may become softer over time, especially by day two.

Freezing

• To freeze unbaked scones, arrange them on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the scones to an airtight container or zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months.
• For baked scones, allow them to cool completely before freezing using the same method.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat baked scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
• Alternatively, warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds; however, this may result in a softer texture.
• Enjoy them warm with butter or your favorite spread!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delicious scones:

Can I use other meats instead of chicken ham in the savory chicken ham & cheese scones?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken ham with cooked bacon or sausage. Just ensure they are finely chopped to maintain the right texture.

How do I make savory chicken ham & cheese scones ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough and shape it into scones ahead of time. Freeze the unbaked scones and bake directly from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy them!

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No worries! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by combining regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it.

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

Look for a golden brown color around the edges and on top. They should be firm to the touch but still soft inside.

Can I add other ingredients to my savory chicken ham & cheese scones?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, green onions, or herbs to enhance flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these savory chicken ham & cheese scones as much as I do! They’re not only simple to prepare but also bring warmth and comfort to any breakfast table. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated later, these delightful treats are sure to please. So gather your ingredients and get baking—I’m sure you’ll love every bite!