Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious treat, these Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants are just the thing! They’re not only simple to whip up but also perfect for any time of the day—be it breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack. I love how these little croissant sandwiches can make busy weeknights feel special or brighten up a family gathering. Plus, who can resist the combination of warm, flaky pastry with savory chicken ham and melted cheese?

Let me share this recipe with you, as it’s one of my go-to favorites that never fails to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings or spontaneous gatherings.
• Family-Friendly: With familiar flavors like chicken ham and gooey cheese, everyone will love these croissants!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready; it’s a great way to save time.
• Versatile Snack: These croissants are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even a delightful party appetizer!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is key to making these Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 8 mini croissants
• 4 slices smoked cheddar cheese (or regular cheddar), halved
• ¾ pound deli-cut chicken ham
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ½ to 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 large egg white
• Poppy seeds, for sprinkling

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or another deli meat if you prefer something different.
• Add veggies: Include some spinach or roasted red peppers for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Herb it up: Sprinkle in some fresh herbs like thyme or dill to elevate the taste even more.

How to Make Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your croissants will bake evenly and get that lovely golden color.

Step 2: Assemble the Croissants

Slice each mini croissant in half horizontally. Layer a half slice of cheddar cheese on the bottom half of each croissant. Next, add a slice of chicken ham followed by another half slice of cheese. Finally, place the top half of the croissant over the fillings. This stacking method helps keep all that cheesy goodness inside!

Step 3: Prepare the Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, combine softened butter with yellow mustard, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Mixing until smooth is essential here because it creates a flavorful glaze that adds richness to your croissants.

Step 4: Spread the Butter Mixture

Spread this tasty butter mixture evenly on the inside of each assembled croissant sandwich. This step is crucial as it infuses flavor directly into your delicious pastries!

Step 5: Arrange in Baking Dish

Place all your assembled croissant sandwiches into a lightly greased baking dish. Make sure they fit snugly but aren’t overcrowded; this allows them to puff up beautifully while baking.

Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash

In another small bowl, whisk together an egg white with a splash of water. Brush this mixture over the tops of your croissants and sprinkle with poppy seeds for an added crunch and visual appeal.

Step 7: Bake Them Up!

Bake in your preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until the cheese is perfectly melted and the tops are golden brown. The aroma will be irresistible as they cook!

Step 8: Serve Warm

Once baked, remove them from the oven and serve warm. Enjoy every cheesy bite—you deserve this little indulgence!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Chicken Ham and Cheese Croissants

Making these croissants is a breeze, but a few insider tips can take your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh croissants: Freshly baked or high-quality croissants will provide the best texture and flavor. Stale croissants can lead to a chewy end result rather than the flaky perfection we desire.
• Experiment with cheeses: While smoked cheddar adds a delicious depth, feel free to mix it up with other cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for different flavor profiles. This can make your croissants even more exciting!
• Add herbs or spices: A sprinkle of dried herbs like oregano or thyme in the butter mixture can elevate the taste. These little additions will bring extra aroma and complexity to each bite.
• Make ahead for convenience: Assemble the croissant sandwiches in advance and store them in the fridge, covered, until you’re ready to bake. This makes them perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens vary, so check your croissants a couple of minutes before the suggested baking time. You want them golden brown and bubbly without overcooking.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Ham and Cheese Croissants

These delightful croissants are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative ideas to serve them up beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or chives: Chopped finely, these herbs add a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the croissant.
• Sliced tomatoes: A side of vibrant tomato slices adds brightness and balances the savory filling perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes tossed in a vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the croissants.
• Fruit platter: Seasonal fruits like berries or melon not only add sweetness but also enhance presentation with their lovely colors.
• Vegetable sticks with hummus: Crunchy veggies such as carrots and bell peppers paired with creamy hummus make for a fun and healthy side that everyone will enjoy!
• Potato wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a hearty companion that rounds out this meal beautifully.

These Baked Chicken Ham and Cheese Croissants are sure to impress your family or guests while being simple enough for everyday enjoyment! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants are not only delicious, but they’re also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the croissants to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Assemble the croissants but don’t bake them.
• Wrap each croissant individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave for about 30-40 seconds, but this may make the pastry less crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I use different types of cheese for Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants?

Absolutely! While smoked cheddar adds a wonderful flavor, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or gouda.

How can I customize my Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also swap out chicken ham for turkey ham or your favorite deli meat.

Can I prepare Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them before baking and store them in the fridge or freeze them unbaked. Just follow the storage instructions above!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make these Baked chicken ham and Cheese Croissants as I am! They’re a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy breakfast at home or a brunch with friends. Enjoy getting creative with your fillings and toppings, and don’t forget to share your experience! Happy baking!