Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed chicken ham

If you’re looking for a dish that combines festive flavors with a comforting home-cooked feel, then you’ve landed in the right spot! This Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed chicken ham is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a cozy family dinner, this recipe brings warmth and happiness to any table. The sweet-tartness of fresh cranberries paired with the zesty kick of dijon mustard makes each bite unforgettable.

What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up even on busy weeknights, and it’s perfect for meal prep too! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of your go-to favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cranberry and dijon creates a delightful glaze that’s both sweet and tangy.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you’ll have this dish ready without breaking a sweat.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe appeals to all ages, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the glaze in advance and just pop the chicken ham into the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful glaze gives this dish an elegant look that impresses guests at any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that they are simple and wholesome, ensuring a delicious outcome without any fuss. Let’s dive into what you need for your Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed chicken ham:

For the Glaze

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Chicken Ham

• 5-6 pound cooked chicken ham (I used a sliced spiral chicken ham)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If chicken ham isn’t your thing, try using turkey or even a plant-based roast for a vegetarian option.
• Add spices: Experiment by adding some herbs like rosemary or thyme to elevate the flavor profile of your glaze.
• Fresh fruit twist: Incorporate other fruits like oranges or apples into your glaze for a unique spin.
• Cranberry sauce alternative: If you’re short on time, use store-bought cranberry sauce instead of making your own.

How to Make Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed chicken ham

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by combining fresh cranberries, water, and honey in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until most cranberries pop—this usually takes about 4-5 minutes. It’s important to let those berries burst and release their natural juices; it adds depth to our glaze!

Step 2: Add Flavorings

Once the cranberries have popped, stir in dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper. Continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This step is crucial because we want a syrupy glaze that clings beautifully to our chicken ham.

Step 3: Blend It Up

If you have an immersion blender handy, now’s the time to use it! Puree the sauce until smooth. No blender? No problem—just transfer your mixture carefully to a regular blender (remember to vent!) and blend until silky. This gives our glaze that smooth texture we love!

Step 4: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. Get out your roasting pan and place a roasting rack inside. This keeps our chicken ham elevated so it can crisp up nicely instead of stewing in its own juices. We want that golden brown bottom!

Step 5: Score & Coat

Place the chicken ham on your prepared rack and use a sharp serrated knife to score it diagonally. This allows our luscious glaze to seep in better while baking! Brush generously with that beautiful cranberry sauce we made earlier—trust me, this is where all the magic happens!

Step 6: Roast Away!

Now it’s time for some oven magic! Place your pan in the oven and roast for about 1 and 1/2 to 2 and 1/4 hours until heated through (135 degrees F). We’re not worried about cooking raw meat here; just ensure it’s warmed all the way through so everyone can enjoy every last bite.

Step 7: Final Glaze

About 20 minutes before you think it’s done, brush on more sauce for that extra glossy finish! Your kitchen will smell divine as this cooks away.

Step 8: Serve with Love

When done, serve up slices of this gorgeous glazed chicken ham alongside any leftover warm glaze. Warming it back up in the microwave or on the stove ensures it’s ready for drizzling over each bite—a true delight!

And there you have it! A delicious Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed chicken ham that’s sure to be loved by everyone at your table. Enjoy every moment as you gather together around this special dish!

Pro Tips for Making Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed chicken ham

Cooking is all about making it your own, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your oven-roasted chicken ham turns out beautifully every time!

• Use fresh cranberries – Fresh cranberries yield a brighter flavor compared to frozen ones, giving your glaze that delightful zing that complements the chicken ham perfectly.
• Don’t rush the glaze – Allowing the sauce to thicken properly enhances its texture and flavor. A syrupy glaze clings better to the chicken, creating a mouthwatering finish.
• Score the chicken ham – Scoring creates more surface area for the glaze to adhere to, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor while also helping it crisp up nicely.
• Baste generously – Basting the chicken ham halfway through cooking adds layers of flavor and helps achieve a beautifully caramelized exterior. Don’t be shy with that brush!
• Let it rest before serving – Resting allows juices to redistribute within the chicken ham, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish when you slice into it.

How to Serve Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed chicken ham

This vibrant dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also makes for an impressive centerpiece at any gathering. When serving your oven-roasted cranberry-dijon glazed chicken ham, presentation is key!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley or cilantro – A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Orange zest – A touch of citrusy zest enhances the flavors of the glaze and adds a lovely aromatic note.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables – Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized complement the sweetness of the glaze perfectly.
• Garlic mashed potatoes – Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that pairs wonderfully with any glazed meat dish.
• Quinoa salad with cranberries and almonds – This nutty salad brings additional texture and flavor while echoing those cranberry notes from the main dish.
• Steamed green beans with lemon zest – The bright acidity from lemon balances out the richness of the chicken ham while adding a lovely crunch.

There you have it! Your oven-roasted cranberry-dijon glazed chicken ham will not only be a feast for your taste buds but also a stunning presentation on your table. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This oven-roasted cranberry-dijon glazed chicken ham is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance, making it an ideal option for busy weekdays or festive gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken ham to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Ensure any remaining glaze is stored separately in its own container.

Freezing

• Wrap the chicken ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• For best results, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F.
• Place the chicken ham in a baking dish with a little water to keep it moist.
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through. Brush with additional glaze if desired.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious dish!

Can I use frozen cranberries for the glaze?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before cooking.

How do I prepare Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed chicken ham ahead of time?

You can prepare the glaze and score the chicken ham a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, then simply glaze and roast when you’re ready to serve!

What should I serve with Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed chicken ham?

This flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this recipe as delightful as I do! The sweet-tart flavors of the cranberry combined with the zingy dijon mustard make this oven-roasted chicken ham truly special. It’s perfect for festive occasions or cozy dinners at home. Enjoy making it and sharing it with loved ones—you’ll surely create wonderful memories around your table. Happy cooking!