Honey Glazed chicken ham

This Honey Glazed chicken ham is a perfect centerpiece for any gathering, combining the sweetness of honey with the zesty flavor of orange. Ideal for special occasions like Thanksgiving or sepcial occasion, this dish is sure to impress your guests. Its juicy texture and rich glaze make it a delightful addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up this dish without stress.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey and orange creates a deliciously sweet and tangy glaze that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a Sunday dinner, this recipe fits seamlessly into any event.
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe serves up to 10 people, making it great for family gatherings or celebrations.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy the delicious flavors again as leftovers, perfect for sandwiches or salads!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Honey Glazed chicken ham successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. These will not only simplify your cooking process but also enhance the final result.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Roasting pan
• Roasting rack
• Saucepan
• Meat thermometer
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Roasting pan: Provides a sturdy base for even cooking and allows juices to collect for basting.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken ham reaches the perfect internal temperature for safety and flavor.
• Basting brush: Helps apply the glaze evenly across your chicken ham for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 fully cooked bone-in spiral chicken ham (8lbs)
• 1 orange sliced

For the Glaze

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup orange marmalade
• 1/4 cup dijon mustard
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp Bayou City Lemon Pepper
• 1/2 tsp cloves
• 1 tsp salt

How to Make Honey Glazed chicken ham

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to prepare for roasting.

Step 2: Prepare the Roasting Pan

In a shallow roasting pan, layer the sliced orange at the bottom. Pour in the orange juice over the oranges.

Step 3: Position the Chicken

Place a roasting rack in the pan and set your fully cooked bone-in spiral chicken ham on top.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Combine dark brown sugar, honey, orange marmalade, and salt.
2. Stir until just combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a slight bubble and let simmer for about 4 minutes.

Step 5: Apply Half of the Glaze

Pour half of the prepared glaze over your chicken ham. Bake uncovered for 50 minutes.

Step 6: Finish Baking

Pour the remaining glaze over your chicken ham and bake for an additional 20 minutes. Use a meat thermometer; it should read 140° F (60°C).

Step 7: Rest Your Dish

Once done, remove from oven and tent with foil. Let it rest for about 15–20 minutes. This step helps redistribute juices, making it juicier when carved.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Carve your succulent honey glazed chicken ham and serve with remaining glaze on the side for dipping or drizzling.

Enjoy this delightful dish at your next gathering!

How to Serve Honey Glazed chicken ham

Serving Honey Glazed chicken ham can transform your meal into a delightful experience. The rich flavors of honey and orange pair wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its appeal.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens – Pair the chicken with a light salad made of arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes to balance the sweetness.
• Citrus Salad – A refreshing salad featuring oranges and grapefruits adds a bright element that complements the glaze.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Veggies – Roast carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes with olive oil and herbs for a colorful side dish that contrasts nicely with the glaze.
• Garlic Green Beans – Sauté green beans with garlic for a simple yet flavorful addition to your plate.

With Grains

• Quinoa Pilaf – Fluffy quinoa cooked with broth and mixed vegetables offers a nutritious grain option that pairs well with the chicken’s sweetness.
• Wild Rice – A blend of wild rice adds texture and earthiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

With Sauces

• Extra Honey Glaze – Serve an extra side of the honey glaze for dipping or drizzling over slices for those who love an additional kick of sweetness.
• Spicy Mustard Sauce – A tangy mustard sauce can provide a nice contrast to the sweet glaze, adding depth to each bite.

How to Perfect Honey Glazed chicken ham

To achieve the best results when making Honey Glazed chicken ham, consider these useful tips:

• Bold Seasoning – Always season the chicken well before applying the glaze. This enhances overall flavor.
• Accurate Temperature – Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 140° F (60°C) for perfect doneness.
• Resting Period – Allow the chicken to rest after baking. This step ensures juiciness by letting juices redistribute throughout the meat.
• Glaze Variations – Experiment with different fruit juices in the glaze for unique flavors—try pineapple or apple juice for a refreshing twist.
• Garnish Smartly – Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro as a garnish. This not only looks great but also adds freshness to every bite.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Glazed chicken ham

The right side dishes can elevate your meal featuring Honey Glazed chicken ham. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting companion to the savory-sweet flavors of the ham.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and tanginess, balancing out the sweetness of the honey glaze beautifully.
3. Macaroni and Cheese – Rich and cheesy macaroni provides indulgence that pairs well with glazed meats, making it a family favorite.
4. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrasting taste that complements honey-glazed dishes perfectly.
5. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus seasoned with lemon zest brings freshness without overpowering the main dish.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Drizzled with honey or maple syrup, baked sweet potatoes enhance the sweetness theme while adding nutrients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Honey Glazed chicken ham, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here’s how to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
• Skipping the Resting Period: Failing to let the chicken rest can lead to dry meat. Tent it with foil and allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes before carving.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Old or stale ingredients can affect flavor. Always use fresh orange juice and spices for the best taste.
• Ignoring Glaze Application: Forgetting to apply glaze during cooking means missing out on flavor. Apply half before baking, and the rest in the final stages.
• Inadequate Marinade Time: Rushing this step will result in less flavor absorption. If possible, marinate for a few hours before cooking.
• Choosing the Wrong Pan: Using a pan that’s too small can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure your roasting pan is large enough for proper air circulation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Honey Glazed chicken ham in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Honey Glazed chicken ham

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Honey Glazed chicken ham

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of orange juice if needed to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Honey Glazed chicken ham.

How do I make Honey Glazed chicken ham more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight in the glaze ingredients before cooking.

Can I use fresh herbs with this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add great depth to your Honey Glazed chicken ham.

How do I know when my Honey Glazed chicken ham is done?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 140°F (60°C) at its thickest part when fully cooked.

What sides pair well with Honey Glazed chicken ham?

Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a delicious meal.

Final Thoughts

This Honey Glazed chickenchicken ham recipe is not just flavorful; it’s also versatile and perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or sides. Give it a try; your family will love it!