Ingredients:
4 large croissants (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
1/2 cup cooked ham, diced
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or a mix of Swiss and cheddar)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Prepare the filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded or diced chicken, diced ham, and shredded cheese.
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Add the mayo mixture to the chicken and ham, and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Assemble the croissants:
Slice each croissant in half lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through (leave the bottom intact like a pocket).
Spoon the chicken, ham, and cheese mixture evenly into each croissant, making sure it’s well-filled.
Bake the croissants:
Place the filled croissants on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush the tops of the croissants with the melted butter to give them a golden, crispy finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the croissants are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Remove the croissants from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired for a touch of color.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Optional Add-ins and Variations:
Vegetables: Add some spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or sliced tomatoes to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
Spicy kick: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling if you like a bit of heat.
Cheese variety: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a unique twist.
