Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham

If you’re looking for a dish that brings a smile to everyone at the table, this Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham is just the ticket! This recipe has become a beloved favorite in my home because it’s simple, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying. The sweet and sticky glaze clings to each slice of chicken ham, making every bite a treat. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, this dish shines bright on any occasion.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up without breaking a sweat, yet it feels fancy enough to impress your guests. Trust me, once you taste that rich combination of pineapple and brown sugar, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The sweet and savory flavors appeal to both kids and adults.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for stress-free entertaining or quick weeknight dinners.
• Versatile Pairing: It goes beautifully with your favorite sides like roasted veggies or fluffy rice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This recipe uses simple and wholesome items that you likely already have in your pantry. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that sticky glaze that makes this chicken ham so special.

• 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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey ham or chicken breasts instead of chicken ham for a different flavor profile.
• Add some heat: Throw in some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if you enjoy a bit of heat with your sweetness.
• Mix up the fruit: Substitute the pineapple with peaches or apricots for a fun twist on the glaze.
• Make it smoky: Add extra hickory liquid smoke if you love that deep smoky flavor—perfect for barbecuing vibes!

How to Make Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat the oven to 325°F. While it’s warming up, lightly spray a large roasting pan or baking dish with nonstick spray. This step ensures that your chicken ham doesn’t stick while cooking and makes cleanup easier later on!

Step 2: Arrange the Chicken Ham and Pineapple

Take your chicken ham out of its packaging and pat it dry with a paper towel. Layer the sliced chicken ham in the prepared baking pan, letting most slices be exposed (some overlapping is totally fine!). Nestle those sweet pineapple slices between them; they’ll add moisture and flavor as they cook!

Step 3: Craft the Delicious Glaze

In a medium saucepan, combine the canned pineapple juice with dark brown sugar, vinegar, dijon mustard, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, salt/pepper to taste, allspice, and liquid smoke. Stir everything together well and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 4-5 minutes until fragrant. Adding cornstarch mixed with water will thicken your glaze into that sticky goodness we crave!

Step 4: Bake It Low & Slow

Pour half of your luscious glaze over the arranged chicken ham slices—make sure some gets in between those layers! Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 325°F for about 30 minutes. This slow cooking allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Crank Up The Heat

After baking time is up, take off the foil and increase your oven temperature to 425°F. Meanwhile, drizzle the remaining glaze over the slices of chicken ham—this will create that caramelized finish we all adore.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Place your dish back into the oven uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until everything looks glossy and golden brown. That’s when you know it’s done!

Step 7: Rest & Serve

Once baked to perfection, let your chicken ham rest for about ten minutes before transferring it onto a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs if you’d like—it adds such lovely color! Serve alongside your favorite side dishes for an unforgettable meal everyone will rave about.

I hope you enjoy making this Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham as much as I do! It’s bound to become one of your go-to recipes too!

Pro Tips for Making Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham

Creating the perfect Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham is all about those little details that can take your dish from good to unforgettable!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh pineapple slices instead of canned enhances the overall flavor and texture of the dish, making it even more vibrant and appetizing.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar in the glaze based on your personal preference. If you enjoy a sweeter taste, add a bit more sugar; for a savory twist, reduce it slightly.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken ham to rest after baking helps redistribute the juices, ensuring that every slice is moist and tender when served.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices or herbs to the glaze! A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can give an extra depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
• Save Those Drippings: The pan drippings are liquid gold! Drizzling them over your servings not only adds flavor but also helps bind all those delicious elements together.

How to Serve Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham

Presenting your Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham beautifully makes every meal feel like a special occasion. Here are some ideas on how to serve it up!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Toasted Nuts: Consider scattering some toasted pecans or almonds over the top for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest right before serving brings a zesty brightness that cuts through the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic make for a comforting side that balances well with the sweet glaze.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers, lightly seasoned and roasted until caramelized, complements the flavors beautifully.
• Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice pairs perfectly with the sticky glaze, enhancing the tropical vibe of this dish.
• Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots dressed in a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken ham.

Enjoy this delightful dish surrounded by loved ones, creating memories around a table filled with laughter and joy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and still enjoy the same delicious flavors. Here’s how to handle leftovers and keep this dish fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken ham to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftover chicken ham and pineapple slices in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the chicken ham has cooled entirely.
• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken ham in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the chicken ham on a baking dish covered with foil to retain moisture, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham.

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

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can add a lovely texture and flavor. Just make sure to use the juice from your fresh pineapple as well when preparing the glaze.

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

If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your glaze. This will give your dish an extra kick while balancing out the sweetness!

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a crisp garden salad. The sweet glaze complements savory sides perfectly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed chicken ham! It’s not just easy; it’s a showstopper that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family!