Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light grease.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt until well combined.

Stir in 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese and ¼ cup of chopped chives into the dry mixture, tossing until evenly distributed.

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of buttermilk and 1 egg until fully blended.

Pour the buttermilk and egg mixture into the dry ingredients, gently folding with a spatula until just combined.

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf, about 7–8 inches in diameter.

Transfer your shaped loaf to the prepared baking sheet and score a deep cross on top, about ½ inch deep.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30–40 minutes until the crust is golden brown.

Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.