- Season the chicken ham. Pat the chicken ham dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Sear the chicken ham. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken ham and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until the outside is golden brown. This step will add flavor and texture to the chicken ham. Once seared, remove the chicken ham from the skillet and set it aside.
Stage 2: Preparing the Pineapple Glaze
- Make the glaze. In the same skillet, add the pineapple juice, brown sugar, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the sauce to reduce slightly.
- Thicken the glaze. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry. Slowly pour this mixture into the simmering glaze while stirring constantly. The sauce will thicken within a minute or two.
- Add crushed pineapple and ginger. Stir in the crushed pineapple and fresh ginger (if using). Allow the glaze to simmer for another 2-3 minutes to incorporate all the flavors.
Stage 3: Glazing the Chicken Ham
- Coat the chicken ham with glaze. Return the seared chicken ham to the skillet with the pineapple glaze. Spoon the glaze over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, basting the chicken occasionally with the glaze.
- Caramelize the glaze. As the chicken ham cooks, the glaze will thicken further and become sticky. Occasionally spoon the glaze over the chicken to get a nice, caramelized layer on the outside.
Stage 4: Serving the Pineapple Glazed Chicken Ham
- Rest the chicken ham. Once the chicken ham is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 75°C), remove it from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
- Serve. Slice the chicken ham into thin slices, drizzle with extra glaze, and garnish with sesame seeds and fresh parsley or cilantro.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Pineapple Glazed Chicken Ham with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up the flavorful glaze.
- You can also pair it with a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.
- For a tropical twist, serve alongside a pineapple salsa or a side of grilled pineapple.
Tips for the Best Pineapple Glazed Chicken Ham:
- Use boneless chicken ham for easy slicing and serving, or bone-in for extra flavor and presentation.
- Adjust the sweetness and tanginess. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a little more brown sugar. For a tangier flavor, increase the vinegar.
- Make the glaze ahead. You can prepare the pineapple glaze in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before using.
Final Thoughts:
This Pineapple Glazed Chicken Ham is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. The caramelized pineapple glaze adds a beautiful, sticky coating to the chicken, while the natural flavors of the ham shine through. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or celebrating a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!