There’s a certain joy that bubbles up when the sweet, tropical scent of pineapple and brown sugar wafts through the kitchen, making my mouth water and my heart race with anticipation. This Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Ham has become my go-to recipe for gatherings, as it effortlessly blends both elegance and comfort food nostalgia. Just picture it: a tender, succulent chicken ham bathed in a luscious pineapple glaze, glistening and beautifully presented right out of the slow cooker.
After a long week, I crave recipes that not only bring people together but also allow me to put my feet up and relax while dinner does its thing in the crock pot. With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, this dish dazzles my guests without leaving me frazzled in the kitchen. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner with family or a festive gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to delight everyone at the table. So, let’s dive into the world of easy, flavorful cooking and whip up something truly memorable!
Why is Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Ham a must-try?
Heavenly flavor: The sweet and tangy glaze perfectly complements the tender chicken ham, making each bite a mouthwatering experience.
Effortless cooking: Just set it and forget it! Let the slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy more time with your loved ones.
Impressive presentation: With its beautiful glaze and juicy chunks of pineapple, it looks as delightful as it tastes, making it perfect for special occasions.
Versatile dish: Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe adapts to any occasion effortlessly.
Crowd-pleaser: The combination of flavors is sure to impress everyone, turning first-timers into fans!
Experience the ease of cooking with this delightful dish—it might just inspire you to explore more slow cooker recipes.
Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Ham Ingredients
For the Chicken Ham
• 1 fully cooked boneless chicken ham – a tender choice that soaks up the flavorful glaze beautifully.
For the Pineapple Glaze
• 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks in juice – the star ingredient that adds sweetness and moisture to the dish.
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar – provides a rich caramel flavor that balances with the tanginess of the pineapple.
• ¼ cup honey – sweetens the glaze further and adds a hint of floral notes.
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard – adds a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – a dash of acidity to brighten up the sweet glaze.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – adds warmth and depth to the flavor blend.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional) – brings a slightly spicy note that complements the sweetness.
For Thickening the Glaze
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – helps create a glossy finish once cooked.
• 2 tablespoons cold water – used to mix with cornstarch for even thickening.
Get ready to impress your friends and family with this fantastic Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Ham recipe!
How to Make Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Ham
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Prepare the chicken ham: Remove the packaging from the chicken ham and place it inside a 6–7-quart oval crockpot, flat side down. For extra flavor, lightly score the surface in a diamond pattern.
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Add pineapple: Drain the pineapple chunks, reserving ½ cup of the juice. Arrange half of the pineapple around the chicken ham, saving the remainder for later enhancement.
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Make the glaze: Whisk together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves (if using), and the reserved ½ cup pineapple juice until smooth and glossy.
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Combine and coat: Pour the brown sugar pineapple mixture evenly over the chicken ham, ensuring some collects around the bottom for added flavor. Add the remaining pineapple chunks on top and around the ham for extra sweetness.
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Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safety before serving.
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Thicken the glaze: Carefully transfer about 1 cup of the hot cooking liquid to a small saucepan. Mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, stir it into the liquid, and simmer on the stovetop for 2–3 minutes until glossy and slightly thickened.
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Slice the ham: Transfer the chicken ham to a cutting board and cut it into thick, even slices. Arrange the slices slightly overlapping back inside the crockpot with the juicy pineapple chunks.
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Serve: Spoon the thickened brown sugar pineapple glaze generously over the sliced chicken ham. Serve warm directly from the crockpot to enjoy all the delicious flavors.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a colorful touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Ham
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze slices of the chicken ham in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Glaze Storage: Store any extra glaze separately in the fridge for up to a week; warm it slightly before serving.
Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Ham Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this dish to your taste buds!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free Dijon mustard and check the cornstarch brand for gluten-free certification.
- Fruit Medley: Add sliced peaches or mangoes for a tropical twist that takes the flavor to new heights.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a sweet-heat balance that tantalizes every palate.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a teaspoon of smoked paprika into the glaze for an earthy depth that complements the sweetness.
- Herbed Delight: Add fresh chopped rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic boost that brightens the dish beautifully.
- Maple Sweetness: Swap in pure maple syrup instead of honey for a unique flavor profile and a hint of autumn warmth.
- Nutty Crunch: Top each slice with toasted coconut or chopped pecans before serving for an exciting texture contrast.
- Citrus Zing: Add the zest of an orange or lime into the glaze for a refreshing burst of citrus that elevates the entire dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Ham preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can assemble the glazed chicken ham in the crockpot up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps by placing the chicken ham and half of the pineapple in the crockpot, then prepare the glaze. Cover the slow cooker securely and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy, pour the glaze on top and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours until heated thoroughly. This approach ensures your meal is just as delicious but with considerably less fuss on the day of serving!
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Ham
Choose quality ham: Opt for a fully cooked boneless chicken ham to ensure tenderness and flavor absorption.
Don’t skip scoring: Lightly scoring the surface creates more surface area for the glaze to penetrate, enhancing the flavor.
Watch the cooking time: Cooking on LOW for 3–4 hours is optimal; avoid high heat unless you’re pressed for time.
Thicken wisely: Be careful not to add too much cornstarch; a little goes a long way in keeping the glaze rich and glossy.
Presentation matters: Arrange the slices back in the crockpot for an appealing display and serve warm with the extra glaze drizzled on top.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Ham?
Looking to create a delightful meal that rounds out the tropical flavors of this dish?
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: They soak up the delicious glaze beautifully, providing a comforting contrast to the sweet chicken ham.
- Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with vinaigrette adds a fresh bite, balancing the richness of the glazed ham.
- Steamed Asparagus: Bright and tender, asparagus brings a touch of green and balances out the dish’s flavors.
- Rice Pilaf: Nutty rice will serve as a hearty base, absorbing the luscious sauce while adding texture.
- Yeast Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are perfect for soaking up the heavenly glaze left on your plate.
- Caramelized Brussel Sprouts: Their slight bitterness offsets the sweetness of the ham, creating a delightful contrast.
- Pineapple Coconut Mocktail: This refreshing drink echoes the tropical notes of the chicken ham, enhancing the overall experience.
- Key Lime Pie: Finish on a sweet, tangy note that perfectly complements the meal’s flavors, delighting guests at the end of the feast.
Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Ham Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken ham?
Absolutely! When selecting a chicken ham, opt for a fully cooked boneless variety in the 3–4 pound range. Look for one with a smooth, unblemished surface and consider choosing one with a label indicating natural ingredients for the best flavors.
How should I store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the chicken ham and pineapple together for maximum flavor retention, and avoid letting it sit at room temperature for extended periods.
Can I freeze the chicken ham?
Of course! You can freeze slices of the Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Ham. Place them in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible before sealing. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm gently in the microwave or stovetop.
What should I do if the glaze isn’t thickening?
Don’t worry! If your glaze isn’t thickening as expected, make sure you’ve mixed the cornstarch thoroughly with cold water before adding it to the cooking liquid. If it still doesn’t thicken after simmering for 2-3 minutes, try adding a little more cornstarch in a slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) until you achieve the desired consistency.
Is this dish safe for people with dietary restrictions, like gluten intolerance?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses a fully cooked chicken ham, pineapple, and basic ingredients that are gluten-free. However, always double-check labels on packaged ingredients like Dijon mustard or brown sugar, as some brands may contain additives that include gluten. Always consult your dietary guidelines if you’re unsure.
Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Ham Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Remove the packaging from the chicken ham and place it inside a 6–7-quart oval crockpot, flat side down. For extra flavor, lightly score the surface in a diamond pattern.
- Drain the pineapple chunks, reserving ½ cup of the juice. Arrange half of the pineapple around the chicken ham, saving the remainder for later enhancement.
- Whisk together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves (if using), and the reserved ½ cup pineapple juice until smooth and glossy.
- Pour the brown sugar pineapple mixture evenly over the chicken ham, ensuring some collects around the bottom for added flavor. Add the remaining pineapple chunks on top and around the ham for extra sweetness.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safety before serving.
- Carefully transfer about 1 cup of the hot cooking liquid to a small saucepan. Mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, stir it into the liquid, and simmer on the stovetop for 2–3 minutes until glossy and slightly thickened.
- Transfer the chicken ham to a cutting board and cut it into thick, even slices. Arrange the slices slightly overlapping back inside the crockpot with the juicy pineapple chunks.
- Spoon the thickened brown sugar pineapple glaze generously over the sliced chicken ham. Serve warm directly from the crockpot to enjoy all the delicious flavors.
