Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham

If you’re looking for a dish that captures the essence of comfort food while sparking joy at any gathering, you’ve found it with this Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham. This recipe is my go-to for celebrations and cozy dinners alike. The sticky glaze, bursting with sweet pineapple and rich brown sugar, coats each slice of chicken ham beautifully, making every bite a delightful experience.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet impressive or for special occasions like holidays and family gatherings. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a stunning main dish ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The sweet and savory flavors are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the glaze in advance to save time on busy days.
• Decadent Flavor: Each slice of chicken ham is coated in a luscious glaze that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a casual dinner, this dish fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home. Let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham!

• 2.5 lbs boneless, sliced chicken ham (quarter chicken ham)
• 1 (15-ounce) can pineapple slices in 100% pineapple juice, juice separated from slices
• ½ cup packed dark brown sugar
• ¼ cup sparkling grape juice vinegar (or white grape juice vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons dijon mustard, coarse ground
• 1 tablespoon unsulphered molasses
• 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
• Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon hickory liquid smoke
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with ½ cup water, for slurry

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey ham or even grilled chicken breasts if you’re looking for something lighter.
• Add some heat: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
• Change the fruit: Try using mango slices or peaches instead of pineapple for a unique twist on the glaze.
• Include veggies: Layer in some roasted vegetables like bell peppers or carrots alongside the chicken ham for added color and nutrition.

How to Make Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. This ensures that your chicken ham gets cooked evenly throughout. While it heats up, lightly spray a large roasting pan or baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Ham

Remove your chicken ham from the packaging and gently pat it dry with a paper towel. This step is important because it helps the glaze stick better! Arrange the sliced chicken ham in the prepared baking pan, allowing most of the slices to be exposed while nesting the pineapple slices among them.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

In a medium saucepan, combine canned pineapple juice, dark brown sugar, sparkling grape juice vinegar, dijon mustard, unsulphered molasses, worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Stir everything together well! Bringing this mixture to a boil is key; it helps meld those flavors together beautifully. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer until it thickens—a syrup-like consistency means it’s just right!

Step 4: Bake with Half the Glaze

Pour half of that luscious glaze over your arranged chicken ham slices—don’t forget to get some in between each slice. It adds so much flavor! Tent the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes at 325°F. This step locks in moisture while allowing those flavors to infuse into the meat.

Step 5: Finish Baking

After baking time is up and you’ve removed the foil, increase your oven temperature to 425°F. Coat your chicken ham with the remaining glaze—this will help achieve that beautiful caramelized finish we all love!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until everything is glossy and golden brown. Then allow your sticky masterpiece to rest before transferring it onto a serving platter. Serve immediately alongside your favorite sides—trust me; those pan drippings make an amazing drizzle over each serving!

I hope you enjoy making this Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham as much as I do! It’s truly finger-licking good!

Pro Tips for Making Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham

Making this deliciously sticky chicken ham is a breeze, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh pineapple and high-quality spices can elevate the flavor of your glaze, making it more vibrant and delicious.

• Let the glaze cool slightly: If you let the glaze cool for just a minute after cooking, it will thicken up a bit more before you pour it over the chicken ham, resulting in an even stickier coating.

• Don’t skip the resting period: Allowing the chicken ham to rest for 10 minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is moist and tender.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or crushed nuts on top before serving for an added crunch and burst of color!

• Save those pan drippings: The drippings left in the pan after baking are packed with flavor—use them as a sauce for additional richness when serving!

How to Serve Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham

Presenting your sticky pineapple brown sugar glazed chicken ham can be as simple or as elegant as you like. Here are some ideas to help you showcase this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Garnish with sprigs of parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color and freshness that complements the sweet glaze.
• Sliced citrus: A few thin slices of orange or lemon around the platter can brighten up the presentation while enhancing flavors with their zesty aroma.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting pairing that balances out the sweetness of the glazed chicken ham.

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers roasted until tender adds not only color but also a healthy component to your meal.

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken ham.

• Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with slivers of toasted almonds provide an elegant touch that enhances your dining experience.

This sticky pineapple brown sugar glazed chicken ham is sure to impress at any gathering. Enjoy crafting your meal around it!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for later, making your weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings even easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken ham to cool completely.
• Place the leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the chicken ham cool down before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the chicken ham in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious recipe? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned for the Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can add a vibrant flavor. Just make sure to juice it or blend it similarly to achieve the desired consistency in your glaze.

How can I make my Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham more spicy?

If you like a kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the glaze. Adjust according to your spice preference!

What sides pair well with Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham?

Some great sides include roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a refreshing green salad. These will complement the sweetness of the glaze beautifully.

Can I prepare Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham in advance?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it. Just follow the storage guidelines above for best results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham as much as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table. Give it a try, and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!