chicken ham and Cheddar Stick

You’ll love these easy crescent roll sticks that are stuffed with chicken ham and cheese and baked to warm and melty goodness. Brushed with a zesty and buttery sauce, these chicken ham and Cheddar Sticks are irresistible as an appetizer, snack, or meal option. Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner, this recipe combines simplicity with great taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe is ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of chicken ham and cheddar cheese creates a deliciously savory filling that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Snack: Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or even as part of a main meal. They adapt perfectly to any occasion!
• Easy to Make: With only a few simple steps and minimal cleanup, you’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness wrapped in flaky dough makes this dish a hit with children and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best chicken ham and Cheddar Sticks, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. These tools will help ensure that your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or foil
• Mixing bowl
• Brush for butter

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides an even surface for your sticks to bake perfectly.
• Parchment paper or foil: Lining your baking sheet prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the buttery sauce ingredients easily.
• Brush for butter: Using a brush helps you evenly coat each stick with the flavorful butter mixture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Ham and Cheddar Stick

• 2 tubes crescent dough sheets
• 1 pound deli sliced chicken ham slices
• 8 cheddar cheese sticks
• ¼ cup butter melted
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ tablespoon dried minced onion or onion powder
• ½ tablespoon poppy seeds

How to Make chicken ham and Cheddar Stick

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Make sure you have all the ingredients listed above before starting.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready for baking.

Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Dough

Roll out your crescent dough sheets on a clean surface. Cut each sheet into 4 equal pieces so that you have 8 pieces total.

Step 4: Add Chicken Ham

Place an equal portion of sliced chicken ham on each piece of dough.

Step 5: Add Cheese Sticks

Top each piece of chicken ham with one cheddar cheese stick.

Step 6: Fold and Seal

Fold in the ends of each dough piece and roll them up tightly to seal in the filling.

Step 7: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the prepared sticks onto a greased foil or parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 8: Prepare Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, onion powder, and poppy seeds until well combined.

Step 9: Brush Mixture Over Sticks

Using a brush, evenly coat each stick with the buttery mixture for added flavor.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 11: Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious chicken ham and Cheddar Sticks!

How to Serve chicken ham and Cheddar Stick

These chicken ham and Cheddar Sticks are versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these sticks will fit right in.

For Appetizers

• Serve with a side of dipping sauces like ranch or BBQ for an extra kick of flavor.
• Pair with sliced veggies for a colorful, crunchy platter that complements the warm sticks.

As a Snack

• Enjoy them straight out of the oven for a quick afternoon treat.
• Pack them in lunchboxes for kids or adults who crave something hearty yet easy to eat.

For Game Day

• Place them on a large platter alongside other finger foods like wings and nachos to please your crowd.
• Offer toothpicks for easy serving during game-watching parties.

As Part of a Meal

• Serve alongside a fresh salad to balance the richness of the cheese and chicken.
• Pair with mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting dinner option.

How to Perfect chicken ham and Cheddar Stick

Creating the perfect chicken ham and Cheddar Sticks is all about technique. Here are some tips to ensure yours come out delicious every time.

• Use fresh dough – Fresh crescent dough yields flakier, tastier sticks than older dough.
• Don’t overfill – Adding too much filling can make it hard to seal the dough properly; stick to one slice of chicken ham and one cheese stick per roll.
• Adjust baking time – Ovens vary; keep an eye on the sticks during baking to achieve that golden color without burning.
• Experiment with flavors – Feel free to add herbs or spices to your butter mixture for added depth of flavor.
• Let cool slightly before serving – This allows the cheese to set slightly, making them easier to handle without losing their shape.

Best Side Dishes for chicken ham and Cheddar Stick

These chicken ham and Cheddar Sticks pair perfectly with various sides. Here are some great options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Garden Salad – A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with vinaigrette adds freshness.
2. Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw offers a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft sticks.
3. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries provide a hint of sweetness that balances savory flavors.
4. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli gives a nutritious green addition that’s easy to prepare.
5. Potato Wedges – Seasoned potato wedges create a hearty side that’s always popular at gatherings.
6. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and is perfect for balancing rich dishes like these sticks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chicken ham and Cheddar Sticks can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly Overstuffing: Adding too much filling can cause the dough to burst while baking. Stick to the recipe’s suggested amounts for optimal results.
• Neglecting Dough Temperature: Cold dough is harder to work with and can tear easily. Let your crescent dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out.
• Skipping the Greasing Step: Not greasing your baking sheet can lead to sticking. Always line with parchment or foil and grease for easy removal.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your sticks as they bake to ensure they reach a golden brown without burning.
• Underseasoning the Butter Mixture: A bland brush can dull the flavor of your sticks. Don’t skip seasoning; it enhances the overall taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3 days for the best taste.

Freezing chicken ham and Cheddar Stick

• Wrap each stick tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag and use within 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating chicken ham and Cheddar Stick

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, then bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 20-30 seconds, but this may make them chewy.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making chicken ham and Cheddar Sticks.

Can I use different cheese for chicken ham and Cheddar Stick?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with various cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor.

How long does it take to prepare chicken ham and Cheddar Stick?

The total time is about 25 minutes, including both preparation and baking.

Can I make chicken ham and Cheddar Stick ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

Is there a vegetarian option for chicken ham and Cheddar Stick?

You could replace the chicken ham with plant-based deli slices or simply use more cheese and veggies.

Final Thoughts

These chicken ham and Cheddar Sticks are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make excellent appetizers, snacks, or even light meals. Feel free to customize them by adding spices or using different types of cheese. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!