May 2023 Recipes Archive: Holiday Ham and Chicken Side Dish Ideas
Hey food lovers! May brought two handy posts that many of you asked for: a solid plan for cooking a holiday ham and a roundup of side dishes that really shine with chicken breasts. Below you’ll find the key takeaways, so you can jump straight to the good stuff without scrolling through endless pages.
How to Cook a Perfect Holiday Ham
First up, the ham. Grab a bone‑in, high‑quality ham and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before it hits the oven. This simple step helps the meat heat evenly and prevents a dry edge.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). While it warms up, score the surface in a diamond pattern – this isn’t just for looks; it lets the glaze soak right into the meat.
The glaze is where flavor lives. Mix brown sugar, honey, and a splash of mustard until it’s smooth. Brush a generous layer over the ham, then pop it in the oven.
Plan on about 20 minutes per pound. Every half hour, pull the ham out, baste with more glaze, and keep the kitchen smelling amazing. Basting locks in moisture and builds that sticky, caramelized crust.
When the internal temperature hits 140°F (60°C), take the ham out and let it rest for 10 minutes. Resting lets the juices redistribute, so each slice stays juicy. Carve against the grain and serve with extra glaze on the side if you like.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Breasts
Now, let’s talk chicken breasts. They’re quick, lean, and pair well with a bunch of sides. My top picks? Roasted veggies, creamy mashed potatoes, and a bright green salad.
Roasted vegetables are a winner because they get caramelized while staying crisp. Toss carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and a pinch of garlic powder, then roast at 425°F for 20‑25 minutes.
Mashed potatoes bring comfort to the plate. Boil peeled potatoes until soft, mash with butter, warm milk, and a dash of salt. For extra silkiness, add a spoonful of cream cheese – it blends in without changing the flavor.
If you want something a bit different, try a simple rice pilaf or a buttery pasta. A one‑pot rice with sautéed onions, a splash of broth, and a handful of peas cooks in 20 minutes and adds color to the meal.
All these sides are easy to prep while the chicken cooks, so nothing sits idle. Mix and match based on what you have in the fridge, and you’ll always have a balanced, tasty dinner.
That’s the rundown for May 2023. Whether you’re gearing up for a holiday feast or just need fresh ideas for weeknight chicken, these tips should get you cooking faster and tasting better. Happy eating!
How do you cook your holiday ham?
During the holidays, I love cooking a delicious ham for my family and friends. First, I choose a high-quality, bone-in ham and preheat the oven to 325°F. I then score the ham in a diamond pattern and brush it with a flavorful glaze made of brown sugar, honey, and mustard. Next, I bake the ham for about 20 minutes per pound, basting it with the glaze every 30 minutes. Once it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F, I let it rest for a few minutes before carving and serving it to my loved ones.
What are the best side dishes for chicken breasts?
In my latest blog post, I discussed the best side dishes to pair with chicken breasts. After trying out various combinations, I found that roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a simple green salad were the top choices. I also discovered that a flavorful rice dish or a creamy pasta can elevate the meal even further. Don't forget to try out new recipes and mix up your side dishes to keep your meals interesting and delicious. Happy cooking, everyone!
