Cornish Game Hens With Apricot Chutney
Juicy Cornish game hens glazed with a sweet apricot-pineapple and mango chutney mixture, perfect for intimate dinners or special occasions with bold flavors and tender meat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Rinse and dry the Cornish game hens.
- Place the hens in a 9 x 12-inch baking dish.
- Bake the hens for 40 minutes.
- Mix apricot-pineapple preserves, mango chutney, sherry, brown gravy sauce or molasses, and Worcestershire sauce together.
- During the final 10 to 15 minutes of baking, baste the hens with the prepared glaze, brushing it on thoroughly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the Cornish game hens in the glaze for a few hours before baking. If you prefer a sweeter touch, you can substitute the mango chutney with peach chutney. To ensure even cooking, use a meat thermometer; the hens should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when done.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish game hens with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. They pair beautifully with Green Beans And Kielbasi for a hearty meal. For a touch of sweetness, consider serving with a side of rice or couscous to soak up any remaining glaze.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cornish game hens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hens in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For best results, cover with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Game Hens With Apricot Chutney contains roughly 119 calories, with 10g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of Cornish game hens?
Yes, you can substitute Cornish game hens with small chickens or even bone-in chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as larger pieces may require longer to cook through, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What other chutneys can I use in this recipe?
You can experiment with various chutneys such as peach or mango if you want to enhance the sweetness. For a spicier kick, a spicy mango or apple chutney could also work well. The key is to balance flavors while keeping the moisture content.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the hens and the glaze a day in advance. Store the hens in the refrigerator and apply the glaze before baking. Just ensure they come to room temperature before placing them in the oven to achieve even cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).