Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack, these Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones are just what you need! They are wonderfully flaky and bursting with flavor, making them a family favorite in our home. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend brunch, these scones will impress everyone at the table.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can whip up a batch in no time, and they freeze beautifully for those unexpected cravings. Plus, feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand! Let’s dive into why these scones are sure to become your new go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: These scones come together in about an hour, making them perfect for busy mornings.
• Family-friendly: With savory flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, they make a great addition to any meal.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready!
• Freezer-friendly: Bake now, enjoy later! These scones freeze well before or after baking.
• Deliciously versatile: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create the most delicious Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones. Gathering these should be a breeze!

• 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 best things about these Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones is how flexible they are! Here are some fun ideas to make them your own:

• Swap the protein: Use cooked bacon or sausage instead of chicken ham for a different flavor profile.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for added zest!
• Add veggies: Throw in some finely chopped spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Herb it up: Instead of chives, try using fresh parsley or thyme to add a unique taste.

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 essential because it ensures all the leavening agents are distributed evenly throughout the flour. Then stir in the chives and shredded cheese for that burst of flavor!

Step 2: Incorporate the Butter

Grate the frozen butter using a box grater and add it to your flour mixture. It’s important that the butter is cold as this helps create those wonderful flaky layers when baked. Gently combine everything until you get pea-sized crumbs—this will give your scones their perfect texture!

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg yolk. This mixture adds moisture to our dough while keeping it light. Pour this over your dry mixture along with the finely chopped chicken ham. Stir gently until everything clumps together—no need to overmix!

Step 4: Form the Dough

Turn your sticky dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a ball as best as you can. Don’t worry if it feels sticky; that’s perfectly fine! Just add more flour if necessary. Flatten it into an eight-inch disc and cut into wedges—this is where you’ll see those lovely shapes take form!

Step 5: Brush with Buttermilk

Whisk together one tablespoon of buttermilk with reserved egg white from earlier. Brush this mixture lightly over each scone; this gives them that gorgeous golden finish during baking. If you love a little crunch, sprinkle on some flaky sea salt too!

Step 6: Chill Before Baking

Place your arranged scones onto a plate or lined baking sheet and refrigerate them for at least fifteen minutes. Chilling helps maintain their shape while baking—trust me, it’s worth it.

Step 7: Preheat Oven & Bake

While they chill, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Once ready, arrange your scones on parchment-lined baking sheets with some space in between so they can expand while baking.

Step 8: Enjoy

Bake those beauties for about 22–25 minutes until they’re golden brown around the edges! Let them cool slightly before serving because I know you’ll want to dig right in! Leftovers keep well but are best enjoyed fresh.

Now you’re ready to share these delicious Savory chicken ham & Cheese Scones with family and friends—or maybe just enjoy them all by yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Savory Chicken Ham & Cheese Scones

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll be sure to impress everyone with your scone-making skills!

• Use cold ingredients – Starting with cold butter and buttermilk helps create a flaky texture by preventing the fat from fully melting into the dough before baking.
• Don’t overmix – Mixing just until combined keeps the scones tender. Overworking the dough can lead to tough scones instead of the light, fluffy treats we want.
• Chill the dough – Refrigerating the dough before baking allows for better rise and texture. This step also helps solidify the butter again, which contributes to flakiness.
• Experiment with flavors – Feel free to swap out chicken ham for your favorite meat or even add veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a unique twist!
• Store properly – Keep leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them to maintain their freshness for longer.

How to Serve Savory Chicken Ham & Cheese Scones

These savory scones make a delightful addition to any meal or gathering. Present them warm from the oven, and watch smiles blossom around your table!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs – A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Honey or jam – A small dish of honey or your favorite fruit jam pairs beautifully with these scones, balancing savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing provides a fresh contrast to the rich scones.
• Vegetable Soup – Pair your savory scones with a warm bowl of vegetable soup. The comforting flavors complement each other perfectly, making for a cozy meal.
• Fruit Platter – A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits can add brightness and a refreshing element to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables – A side of roasted seasonal veggies brings out earthy flavors that work wonderfully alongside the cheesy goodness of the scones.

Enjoy every bite of these delicious savory chicken ham & cheese scones, whether they’re part of breakfast, brunch, or even dinner! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These savory chicken ham & cheese scones are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making them a fantastic option for busy mornings or quick snacks throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing them in the container to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• To freeze unbaked scones, arrange them on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• If freezing baked scones, let them cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating

• For unbaked frozen scones, you can bake directly from the freezer; just add an extra few minutes to the baking time.
• For baked scones, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• You can also microwave baked scones for about 20-30 seconds; they may become softer but will still taste delicious!

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! Feel free to replace chicken ham with cooked bacon, sausage, or even diced vegetables for a vegetarian twist.

How do I make savory chicken ham & cheese scones gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free!

What is the best way to store savory chicken ham & cheese scones?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them!

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

Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it or even freeze unbaked scones for later use.

How long do savory chicken ham & cheese scones last?

These delightful scones last about 2 days at room temperature and up to 5 days in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these savory chicken ham & cheese scones as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion. Enjoy creating this flavorful treat and sharing it with those you love. Happy baking!