When it comes to a show-stopping centerpiece for any celebration, nothing beats a perfectly glazed Baked Turkey Ham with Honey-Chipotle Glaze. This dish is an absolute flavor bomb, combining the natural smoky goodness of turkey ham with a sticky, sweet, and spicy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
The honey-chipotle glaze is the real star here, offering a sweet heat that balances beautifully with the savory turkey ham. Whether you’re preparing this for a holiday feast, a Sunday family dinner, or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—just glaze, bake, and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Turkey Ham with Honey-Chipotle Glaze
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Incredible Flavor Combination – The smoky, spicy, and sweet glaze creates a perfect balance of flavors.
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Juicy & Tender Meat – Turkey ham is naturally lean yet stays moist and tender with this slow-baking method.
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Crispy Caramelized Glaze – As the honey and chipotle cook, they form a delicious, sticky, and slightly crisp outer layer.
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Quick & Easy – Requires minimal prep time and is great for both beginners and experienced home cooks.
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Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s Eid, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a weekend dinner, this dish is always a hit.
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Great for Leftovers – Leftover slices make amazing sandwiches, wraps, or salads the next day.
Preparation Time and Yield
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
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Yield: Serves 6-8 people
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 320
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Carbohydrates: 18g
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Protein: 34g
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Fat: 12g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 14g
Ingredients for Baked Turkey Ham with Honey-Chipotle Glaze
For the Turkey Ham:
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1 (3-4 lb) turkey ham, whole
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1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
For the Honey-Chipotle Glaze:
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½ cup honey
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2 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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2 tbsp butter, melted
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2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
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1 tbsp adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp ground cinnamon
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp salt
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Turkey Ham with Honey-Chipotle Glaze
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or roasting pan with foil and place a wire rack on top. This setup allows air to circulate around the ham, ensuring even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Ham
Unwrap the turkey ham and pat it dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, score the surface in a diamond pattern (about ¼-inch deep). This helps the glaze penetrate better.
Step 3: Make the Honey-Chipotle Glaze
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine:
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Honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, melted butter, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt.
Whisk everything together and let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Apply the First Layer of Glaze
Brush the turkey ham with olive oil and generously coat it with about ⅓ of the glaze. Save the rest for later basting.
Step 5: Bake the Turkey Ham
Place the ham on the prepared wire rack and roast it for 1 hour, basting every 20 minutes with more glaze.
Step 6: Final Glaze & Broil
For the last 15 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and brush on the remaining glaze. This helps develop a deep, caramelized crust.
Optional: For extra crispiness, broil the ham for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 7: Rest & Serve
Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Serve warm with your favorite side dishes like roasted potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad!
Ingredient Background
The key to an unforgettable turkey ham lies in its combination of flavors. Let’s break down the star ingredients and why they matter.
1. Turkey Ham
Turkey ham is a leaner and healthier alternative to traditional pork ham, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a festive dish without the extra fat. It retains a smoky, savory essence while being naturally tender, especially when glazed and roasted properly.
2. Honey
Honey adds a natural sweetness and caramelization, creating that perfect golden crust. It also helps balance out the smoky heat from the chipotle peppers. If you prefer, maple syrup or date syrup can be used as a substitute.
3. Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce
Chipotle peppers are smoked, dried jalapeños, giving this dish a deep, smoky flavor with a mild heat. The adobo sauce they come in is a tangy, slightly sweet, and spiced marinade that enhances the glaze beautifully.
4. Dijon Mustard
Dijon mustard provides a tangy sharpness that cuts through the richness of the glaze, ensuring the flavors don’t become overly sweet. It also helps create a sticky, flavorful glaze that adheres well to the turkey ham.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar
This is the secret ingredient that balances all the flavors. The acidity from the vinegar prevents the glaze from being overly sweet and adds a hint of freshness.
Technique Tips for Baked Turkey Ham with Honey-Chipotle Glaze
Mastering this dish is simple, but these expert tips will take it to the next level.
1. Scoring for Maximum Flavor
Scoring the turkey ham in a diamond pattern allows the glaze to seep into the meat, creating a more flavorful and caramelized outer layer. If you skip this step, the glaze may just sit on the surface instead of infusing the ham.
2. Basting is Key
Brushing on the glaze every 20 minutes ensures that the turkey ham remains moist while building up that glossy, caramelized finish. The sugars in the glaze slowly develop, preventing it from burning too early.
3. Resting Time is Crucial
Letting the ham rest for 10 minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute evenly, keeping every slice tender and juicy. If you cut into it too soon, the juices will escape, leaving the meat dry.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
This turkey ham is delicious on its own, but here are some creative ways to present it.
1. Glazed Turkey Ham Slices on a Platter
For an elegant dinner presentation, slice the ham into thin pieces and arrange them on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, orange slices, or pomegranate seeds for a festive look.
2. Honey-Chipotle Turkey Ham Sliders
Turn this into a casual meal by slicing the ham and serving it on mini brioche buns with coleslaw and a little extra glaze drizzled on top. This makes for a great party snack!
3. Turkey Ham & Roasted Vegetable Bowl
For a healthier option, serve the sliced ham over a bowl of quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and steamed broccoli. Drizzle some extra glaze on top for added flavor.
Freezing and Storing Baked Turkey Ham with Honey-Chipotle Glaze
This dish stores well, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat it properly.
1. Storing in the Fridge
Once cooled, wrap the turkey ham tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
2. Freezing for Later
To freeze, slice the ham into portions and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe ziplock bag. It will keep for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating Without Drying It Out
For best results, reheat slices in a covered baking dish at 325°F (165°C) for about 10 minutes. You can also add a little extra glaze or broth to keep it moist.
Healthier Twist Ideas
If you’re looking for a lighter version of this dish, here are some ways to make it even healthier:
1. Reduce the Sugar Content
Swap out honey for date syrup or reduce the amount by half. This keeps the glaze naturally sweet without excessive sugar.
2. Use a Low-Sodium Turkey Ham
Look for a low-sodium or nitrate-free turkey ham to make this dish heart-healthier. Many store-bought hams have added salt, so choosing a healthier option can make a difference.
3. Swap Butter for Olive Oil
Instead of melted butter in the glaze, use extra virgin olive oil. This keeps the dish lighter while maintaining a rich taste.
Serving Suggestions for Events
This turkey ham is versatile and can be served at different occasions in unique ways.
1. Holiday Feast
For Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Eid, serve this turkey ham with mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, and cranberry sauce for a well-rounded holiday meal.
2. Brunch Gathering
Slice the turkey ham and serve it alongside scrambled eggs, avocado toast, and fresh fruit for a delicious and satisfying brunch spread.
3. Game Day Party
For a casual event, dice the ham into chunks and serve it with toothpicks and a honey-chipotle dipping sauce for an easy appetizer that guests will love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe with a fresh turkey instead of turkey ham?
Yes! You can use a boneless turkey breast, but you may need to increase the cooking time since fresh turkey takes longer to cook than pre-cooked turkey ham.
2. How spicy is this glaze?
The chipotle peppers add a mild to medium heat, but you can adjust the spice level by adding less adobo sauce or omitting the chipotle entirely.
3. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it before using.
4. What sides pair well with this dish?
Classic options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a simple salad.
5. Can I grill this turkey ham instead of baking it?
Yes! Grill it over medium heat for about 10 minutes per side, brushing with glaze regularly.
6. What can I use instead of honey?
You can substitute maple syrup, date syrup, or agave nectar for a similar sweetness.
7. How do I keep the glaze from burning?
Make sure to baste frequently and cover with foil if it starts to darken too quickly.
8. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the turkey ham and adobo sauce are gluten-free, this dish naturally contains no gluten.
9. Can I use smoked turkey instead?
Yes, smoked turkey will work beautifully and will add even more depth of flavor.
10. Can I double the glaze?
Absolutely! If you love extra glaze, make a double batch and serve some on the side for dipping.
Conclusion
This Baked Turkey Ham with Honey-Chipotle Glaze is the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday dinner, a casual gathering, or simply craving a delicious main course, this recipe is sure to impress. The caramelized glaze, juicy turkey ham, and easy prep make it a go-to dish for any occasion.
Try it once, and it might just become a new family favorite! Let me know how it turns out for you.
Print
Baked Turkey Ham with Honey-Chipotle Glaze
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6-8 people 1x
Ingredients
For the Turkey Ham:
- 1 (3-4 lb) turkey ham, whole
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
For the Honey-Chipotle Glaze:
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or roasting pan with foil and place a wire rack on top. This setup allows air to circulate around the ham, ensuring even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Ham
Unwrap the turkey ham and pat it dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, score the surface in a diamond pattern (about ¼-inch deep). This helps the glaze penetrate better.
Step 3: Make the Honey-Chipotle Glaze
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine:
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Honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, melted butter, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt.
Whisk everything together and let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Apply the First Layer of Glaze
Brush the turkey ham with olive oil and generously coat it with about ⅓ of the glaze. Save the rest for later basting.
Step 5: Bake the Turkey Ham
Place the ham on the prepared wire rack and roast it for 1 hour, basting every 20 minutes with more glaze.
Step 6: Final Glaze & Broil
For the last 15 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and brush on the remaining glaze. This helps develop a deep, caramelized crust.
Optional: For extra crispiness, broil the ham for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 7: Rest & Serve
Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Serve warm with your favorite side dishes like roasted potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 14g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g