Parmesan Chive Biscuits Recipe

Parmesan Chive Biscuits Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons thinly sliced chives
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/3 cup cold sour cream
  • 5 tablespoons cold milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing on biscuit tops)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, Parmesan cheese, chives, baking powder, salt, baking soda, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Stir in the cold sour cream and mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Add the cold milk to the mixture and gently fold it in until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Using a 1/4 cup measure or a cookie scoop, place rounded scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 1 inch of space between each biscuit.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the biscuits are lightly golden.

Step 7: Remove the biscuits from the oven and brush the tops with the melted butter.

Step 8: Return the biscuits to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp on top.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories 170
Total Fat 9g (11% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat 5g (25% Daily Value)
Cholesterol 23mg (8% Daily Value)
Sodium 434mg (19% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate 18g (6% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber 1g (2% Daily Value)
Total Sugars 1g
Protein 5g (11% Daily Value)
Vitamin C 1mg (1% Daily Value)
Calcium 162mg (12% Daily Value)
Iron 1mg (6% Daily Value)
Potassium 68mg (1% Daily Value)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutritional information is based on available data and may vary depending on ingredients used.

The Origins of Parmesan Chive Biscuits

Parmesan chive biscuits are a relatively modern twist on traditional American biscuits, which trace their roots back to early European settlers in North America. While classic biscuits were simple, flour-based bread served with butter or gravy, the addition of Parmesan cheese and fresh chives reflects the influence of Italian flavors on American home cooking. These biscuits likely emerged in the mid-20th century as home cooks experimented with savory ingredients to elevate everyday baked goods, creating a snack that is both rich in flavor and easy to prepare.

Regional Variations

Though widely enjoyed across the United States, Parmesan chive biscuits have subtle regional adaptations. In the South, they may include a hint of cayenne or smoked paprika for extra warmth, while in the Midwest, bakers often incorporate local butter or cheddar in addition to Parmesan for a creamier texture. In coastal regions, fresh herbs beyond chives, such as parsley or thyme, are sometimes folded in to highlight local produce, giving each regions version a unique aroma and taste.

Distinctive Characteristics Compared to Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional buttermilk biscuits, which rely on tangy dairy and a light, fluffy texture, Parmesan chive biscuits are denser with a more savory profile. The Parmesan adds a nutty, umami-rich dimension, while the chives provide a mild oniony brightness. Compared to scones, which may be sweeter and include fruit, these biscuits are entirely savory and often serve as an accompaniment to main dishes rather than a standalone treat. Their drop-biscuit method, rather than rolling and cutting dough, also sets them apart in terms of ease and rustic appearance.

Typical Serving Context

Parmesan chive biscuits are incredibly versatile. They often appear alongside soups, stews, or roasted meats, especially in brunch or dinner spreads. In casual dining settings, they are frequently served with flavored butters or olive oil dips. During holiday gatherings or weekend brunches, these biscuits can complement scrambled eggs, quiches, or fresh salads, offering a golden, cheesy side that elevates even the simplest meal.

Interesting Facts

  • The combination of Parmesan and chives is inspired by classical European flavors, but the drop-biscuit method is uniquely American.
  • These biscuits freeze exceptionally well, allowing families to prepare them ahead of time for busy mornings.
  • Despite their savory nature, they are often enjoyed with sweet accompaniments such as honey butter, creating a surprising balance of flavors.
  • Parmesan chive biscuits have gained popularity among home bakers due to their forgiving technique; even novice cooks can achieve golden, flavorful results with minimal experience.
  • Adding freshly chopped chives right before baking enhances their aroma dramatically, a tip widely shared among enthusiasts online.

FAQ about Parmesan Chive Biscuits Recipe

Parmesan Chive Biscuits are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Yes, you can freeze the biscuits. After baking and cooling them completely, wrap each biscuit tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the fridge, and then warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.

Yes, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt, buttermilk, or even a mixture of milk and a bit of lemon juice to create a tangy flavor. The texture may vary slightly, but the result will still be delicious.

If you don't have chives, you can use green onions, shallots, or even parsley as alternatives. For a stronger onion flavor, try finely minced red or white onions.

Yes, feel free to add more Parmesan or experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère for different flavor profiles. Just be mindful that adding too much cheese might affect the texture of the dough.

You can make these biscuits gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the flour blend includes xanthan gum to help with the texture. The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the biscuits while baking.

If your biscuits turned out too dense, it might be due to overworking the dough. Be careful not to mix too much after adding the milk, as this can lead to tough biscuits. Also, make sure you're using the correct type of flour and not packing it too tightly when measuring.

Parmesan Chive Biscuits are great on their own or served as a side dish to soups, salads, or main courses. They are also perfect for brunch with eggs or served alongside pasta dishes. You can even dip them in olive oil or serve them with butter for extra flavor.

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Simply prepare the dough, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and follow the baking instructions.

If your biscuits are not browning on top, it could be due to the temperature of your oven or the type of baking sheet you're using. Make sure your oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C), and consider using a darker baking sheet, which can help promote better browning. Also, brushing the tops with melted butter before baking helps with the golden color.

Comments

Dennis Johnson

09/01/2024 05:47:44 AM

I tried using a cup of cauliflower flour baking mix instead of the all-purpose flour in this recipe, and used scallions from my porch garden instead of chives. The result was delicious, and the dough was easy to work with. I also added a sprinkle of garlic powder on top before brushing with melted butter. I definitely plan on making this recipe again!

Nicholas Thomas

09/06/2024 08:31:57 PM

This recipe is a keeper without a doubt! It was absolutely delicious! Following the suggestions of others, I included an extra 1/4 cup of parmesan and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder in the dough. I also swapped chives for green onions and added some freshly chopped parsley for extra flavor.

Helen Allen

07/01/2023 02:27:18 AM

Outstanding, looking forward to trying it with fresh garlic and feta cheese next time!

Karen Martin

01/06/2024 12:54:17 PM

Quite simple to prepare. It could benefit from a touch more salt or some added seasoning as it comes off a bit plain, but still quite enjoyable.

Dennis Sanchez

05/21/2024 02:56:09 PM

I stumbled upon this recipe in my email just before dinner and decided to make it as a last-minute side dish for an Italian meal. Making drop biscuits was surprisingly quick and easy, taking only a few minutes to get them into the oven. I may have been a bit generous with the Parmesan and chives, but in retrospect, the biscuits could have handled even more of those flavors. Sprinkling them with garlic powder was a great suggestion, and they were extra tasty when dipped in some olive oil and Parmesan mixture left over from making focaccia bread. My husband was pleasantly surprised and devoured 2-1/2 of these biscuits at dinner.

Raymond Jackson

09/29/2023 09:56:07 PM

Required double the amount of milk stated and scooped out precisely 6 biscuits using an ice cream scoop.

Ronald Roberts

07/24/2024 10:13:24 AM

The dish turned out exactly as described in the recipe.