Ham and Cheese Croissant Recipe

Recipe By:
Alexandra
Updated:
Ham and Cheese Croissant Recipe

Baked chicken ham and cheese croissants are an irresistible treat that perfectly combines the flaky texture of pastry with savory chicken ham and melty Swiss cheese. This Ham and Cheese Croissant Recipe is suitable for breakfast, lunch, or even as a delightful snack. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, these croissants are sure to impress with their rich flavors and satisfying crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
  • Flavor Explosion: The combination of Dijon mustard, honey, and green onions adds a unique twist that elevates the classic ham and cheese sandwich.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm as sandwiches or cut into smaller pieces for an appetizer at parties.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 mini croissants, this recipe is ideal for entertaining guests or sharing with family.
  • Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences, such as using different cheeses or adding veggies.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your delicious ham and cheese croissants, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure a successful outcome.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Baking dish (9 x 13 inches)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Brush for egg wash

Importance of Each Tool

  • Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and proper support for your croissants while baking.
  • Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients like butter, mustard, and seasonings easily.
  • Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth egg wash for that golden-brown finish on your croissants.
  • Brush for egg wash: Necessary for applying the egg white mixture evenly over the croissants.

Ingredients

Baked chicken ham and cheese croissants offer a heavenly combination of flaky pastry, melty cheese, and savory chicken ham, making for an irresistible and indulgent treat.

For the Filling

  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • ½ tsp sea salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 12 mini croissants (halved horizontally)
  • 1 pound thinly sliced smoked deli chicken ham
  • 12 slices Swiss cheese (diagonally sliced)

For Garnish

  • 1 large egg white
  • 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
Ham

How to Make Ham and Cheese Croissant Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly oil your 9 x 13 baking dish or coat it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, combine:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Dijon mustard
3. Thinly sliced green onions
4. Honey

Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Croissants

Spread the butter mixture on each side of the halved mini croissants. Fill each with chicken ham and Swiss cheese to create 12 delicious sandwiches.

Step 4: Arrange in Baking Dish

Place the filled croissants in a single layer onto the prepared baking dish. Ensure they fit snugly without overcrowding.

Step 5: Prepare Egg Wash

In another small bowl, whisk together:
1. Large egg white
2. 1 tablespoon of water

Brush the tops of each croissant with this egg wash mixture. Finally, sprinkle with poppy seeds for added flavor and crunch.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Put the baking dish into the oven. Bake until golden brown and toasted, about 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Once baked, let them stand for about 5 minutes before serving warm. Enjoy these delightful bites fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Ham and Cheese Croissant Recipe

Serving baked chicken ham and cheese croissants can elevate your meal experience. These delightful treats are perfect for various occasions, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or a casual gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

Pair with Fresh Salad

  • Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes complements the rich flavors of the croissant.
  • Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons create a satisfying contrast to the flaky pastry.

Offer with Dipping Sauces

  • Honey Mustard Sauce: This sweet and tangy sauce pairs beautifully with the savory ham and cheese.
  • Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic dip adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances each bite.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

  • Sliced Melon: Refreshing melon slices balance the richness of the croissant.
  • Berries Medley: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provides a burst of freshness.

How to Perfect Ham and Cheese Croissant Recipe

Perfecting your ham and cheese croissant recipe is key to achieving delicious results every time. Follow these tips for an amazing dish.

  • Use Fresh Croissants: Opt for freshly baked croissants for the best texture and flavor.
  • Balance Flavors: Adjust mustard and honey to suit your taste; this enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Layer Ingredients Carefully: Ensure even distribution of chicken ham and cheese for consistent melting and taste.
  • Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the croissants while baking to avoid over-browning; they should be golden but not burnt.
  • Let Cool Slightly Before Serving: Allowing them to cool helps set the filling, making them easier to handle.
Ham

Best Side Dishes for Ham and Cheese Croissant Recipe

Pairing your ham and cheese croissants with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

  1. Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup makes a comforting companion that complements the flavors perfectly.
  2. Potato Chips: Crunchy potato chips add texture and are an easy side for casual gatherings.
  3. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch that balances out the rich croissants.
  4. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers sweetness and freshness that enhances your meal’s appeal.
  5. Pickles: Tangy pickles provide a zesty contrast that pairs well with savory ingredients.
  6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate, making it more satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making baked chicken ham and cheese croissants can be easy, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are a few to watch out for:

  • Overfilling the Croissants: Adding too much chicken ham or cheese can cause them to spill out during baking. Stick to a moderate amount to ensure they bake evenly.
  • Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 375 degrees F for the best results.
  • Ignoring Egg Wash: Brushing the croissants with an egg white mixture helps achieve that golden-brown finish. Don’t skip this step for a beautiful presentation.
  • Using Cold Butter: If your butter is too cold, it won’t spread easily on the croissants. Make sure it’s at room temperature to mix well with other ingredients.
  • Underbaking: Croissants should be baked until golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid any underbaked parts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover ham and cheese croissants in an airtight container.
  • They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
  • For best texture, reheat before serving.

Freezing Ham and Cheese Croissant Recipe

  • Wrap each croissant individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
  • Place wrapped croissants in a freezer-safe container or bag.
  • They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Ham and Cheese Croissant Recipe

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Place croissants on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Place a croissant on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for about 20-30 seconds; be cautious not to overheat as it can become chewy.
  • Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Lightly toast each side of the croissant for about 2-3 minutes until warmed.
Ham

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to store leftover ham and cheese croissants?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I customize my ham and cheese croissant recipe?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or substitute different cheeses according to your preference.

How do I prevent soggy bottoms on my ham and cheese croissant?

Make sure you don’t overload them with filling, and consider pre-baking the bottom layer slightly before adding fillings.

What type of cheese works best in this ham and cheese croissant recipe?

Swiss cheese is recommended for its melting properties, but feel free to experiment with cheddar or provolone!

Final Thoughts

This baked chicken ham and cheese croissant recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It makes for a fantastic breakfast option or satisfying lunch choice. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients. Try it today, and enjoy this indulgent treat!

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Ham and Cheese Croissant Recipe

Ham and Cheese Croissant

Baked chicken ham and cheese croissants are the perfect blend of flaky pastry, savory chicken ham, and gooey Swiss cheese. Ideal for breakfast, lunch, or a delightful snack, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with flavor. With a touch of Dijon mustard and honey, these croissants elevate the classic ham and cheese experience. Perfect for brunch gatherings or quiet afternoons at home, these irresistible treats promise to impress every palate.

  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: Makes 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 12 mini croissants (halved horizontally)
  • 1 pound thinly sliced smoked deli chicken ham
  • 12 slices Swiss cheese (diagonally sliced)
  • 1 large egg white (for egg wash)
  • 2 teaspoons poppy seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly oil a baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, mix together the butter, Dijon mustard, green onions, honey, sea salt, and black pepper until combined.
  3. Spread the mixture on each side of the halved croissants, then fill with chicken ham and Swiss cheese.
  4. Arrange filled croissants in the baking dish snugly.
  5. For the egg wash, whisk together egg white and water; brush over croissants and sprinkle with poppy seeds.
  6. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Let cool slightly before serving warm.
  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 mini croissant (60g)
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize by adding veggies or swapping cheeses to your taste. Serve with salads or dipping sauces like honey mustard for extra flavor.

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