Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy breakfast treat, these Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants are exactly what you need! They’re perfect for busy mornings, family gatherings, or even a cozy brunch at home. The combination of buttery croissants, savory chicken ham, and gooey cheese creates an indulgent experience that everyone will love. Plus, they come together quickly, making them a go-to recipe in my kitchen.
This delightful recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also fills the room with a warm, inviting aroma as they bake. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll become a regular in your meal rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious treats ready in no time.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone from kids to adults will enjoy this tasty twist on classic croissants.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare these ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The savory chicken ham paired with melted cheese is simply irresistible!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these croissants fit right in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need!
For the Croissants
- 8 mini croissants
- 4 slices smoked cheddar cheese (or regular cheddar), halved
- ¾ pound deli-cut chicken ham
For the Butter Mixture
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ to 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
For Topping
- 1 large egg white
- Poppy seeds, for sprinkling
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and customize these croissants to suit your taste.
- Swap the protein: Try using turkey ham or even grilled chicken for a different flavor.
- Change up the cheese: Experiment with mozzarella or gouda for a new twist on texture and taste.
- Add some veggies: Sliced bell peppers or spinach can add a fresh element to your croissant sandwiches.
- Go sweet: For a sweeter version, consider adding some fruit preserves inside before baking.
How to Make Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step is crucial because it ensures that your croissants bake evenly and don’t stick to the dish.
Step 2: Assemble the Croissants
Slice each mini croissant in half horizontally. On the bottom half of each croissant, place a half slice of cheddar cheese followed by a slice of chicken ham. Finish with another half slice of cheese before placing the top half back on. This layering helps ensure every bite is packed with flavor!
Step 3: Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, yellow mustard, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Mixing these ingredients until smooth creates a flavorful spread that adds richness to each croissant.
Step 4: Spread the Mixture
Spread this delicious butter mixture evenly on the inside of each assembled croissant sandwich. This step adds depth of flavor and keeps everything moist while baking.
Step 5: Arrange in Baking Dish
Carefully place all your assembled croissant sandwiches into the prepared baking dish. Make sure they fit snugly together but aren’t overcrowded – we want them to bake up nice and fluffy!
Step 6: Add Egg Wash
In another small bowl, whisk together the egg white with a splash of water. Brush this mixture over the tops of each croissant and sprinkle generously with poppy seeds. The egg wash gives them that beautiful golden color while baking!
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your croissants in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until you see that delightful golden brown color and melted cheese peeking out. The smell will be absolutely irresistible!
Step 8: Serve Warm
Once baked, remove them from the oven and serve warm. These Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re gooey and delicious!
Pro Tips for Making Baked Chicken Ham and Cheese Croissants
These croissants are sure to impress, and with a few simple tips, you can make them even more delicious!
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Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality chicken ham and cheese can significantly enhance the flavor of your croissants. Fresh deli meats and artisanal cheeses bring an elevated taste that makes each bite more enjoyable.
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Don’t Overfill: While it might be tempting to stuff your croissants with generous amounts of filling, keeping it moderate ensures they bake evenly without spilling out. This way, you’ll have perfectly sealed sandwiches that hold their shape in the oven.
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Experiment with Mustards: Feel free to switch up the mustard! Different varieties (like Dijon or honey mustard) can add unique flavors that complement the cheese and chicken ham beautifully. It’s a fun way to personalize the recipe to your taste.
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Brush for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crispy top, apply a thin layer of butter on the tops of the croissants before baking. This adds a golden finish and enhances the flaky texture we all love.
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Serve Immediately: These croissants are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re warm and gooey. If you’re making them for a gathering, consider baking them just before serving for that delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Ham and Cheese Croissants
Presenting your baked chicken ham and cheese croissants beautifully can turn a simple dish into an impressive meal. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!
Garnishes
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
- Sliced Avocado: Adding avocado slices on the side not only complements the flavors but also adds a creamy texture that’s oh-so-delicious.
Side Dishes
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the croissants while adding a refreshing crunch.
- Chips or Crisps: A side of crunchy chips or vegetable crisps provides a satisfying contrast to the soft croissant, making for a delightful combination.
- Seasonal Fruit Platter: Pairing these savory treats with a platter of seasonal fruits like berries or melon adds sweetness that perfectly contrasts with the savory filling.
- Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup offers comfort alongside these croissants, making it an excellent choice for brunch or lunch gatherings.
With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to enjoy your delicious Baked Chicken Ham and Cheese Croissants! They’re not just a meal; they’re an experience waiting to be shared with friends and family. Happy cooking!
Make Ahead and Storage
These Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants are a fantastic option for meal prep. They’re easy to assemble ahead of time, making them a convenient choice for busy mornings or gatherings.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow any leftover croissants to cool completely.
- Place them in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Prepare the croissants as directed but do not bake them.
- Arrange the assembled croissants on a baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- For frozen croissants, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the croissants for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and golden brown.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants.
Can I use different types of cheese for Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda. Each will add its unique flavor while still complementing the chicken ham beautifully.
How do I make Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants gluten-free?
To make these croissants gluten-free, simply use gluten-free mini croissants from your local bakery or grocery store. The filling remains the same, ensuring that you still enjoy this delicious recipe!
Can I add vegetables to Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants?
Yes! Adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers can enhance both flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them lightly before adding to the croissant filling.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making these Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants! They are not only scrumptious but also versatile enough for any meal occasion. Whether you’re preparing them for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy every bite!
Baked Chicken and Cheese Croissants
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
If you’re searching for a scrumptious breakfast treat that’s both easy to make and delightful to eat, look no further than these Baked Chicken and Cheese Croissants. Perfect for busy mornings or cozy brunches, this recipe features buttery croissants stuffed with savory chicken and gooey cheese, creating an indulgent experience everyone will enjoy. The best part? They come together quickly, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma as they bake. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
- 8 mini croissants
- 4 slices smoked cheddar cheese (halved)
- ¾ pound deli-cut chicken
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large egg white
- Poppy seeds for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Slice each mini croissant in half horizontally. Layer the bottom half with a slice of cheddar cheese, followed by chicken, and another slice of cheese before replacing the top half.
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, yellow mustard, honey, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
- Spread the butter mixture inside each croissant sandwich for added flavor.
- Arrange the sandwiches snugly in the baking dish.
- Whisk the egg white with a splash of water and brush it over the tops of each croissant; sprinkle with poppy seeds.
- Bake for about 15-18 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve warm for the best experience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 233
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 472mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
