Cornish Hens Dijon
Juicy Cornish hens glazed with Dijon mustard and roasted with potatoes, offering a flavorful, hearty meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Split the 2 Cornish hens in half and place them skin side up in a rectangle baking dish.
- Brush the hens evenly with Dijon mustard and season with a dash of pepper.
- Arrange 8 small potatoes around the hens, 4 on each side, and prick each potato 4 times.
- Pour the dry white wine over the hens and potatoes.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, marinate the Cornish hens in Dijon mustard and white wine for a few hours or overnight. If you don't have small potatoes, you can substitute with quartered larger ones. Don't skip pricking the potatoes; this helps them absorb the flavors and cook evenly. For a fresh twist, consider adding herbs from a Homemade Herb Mix to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens with a side of steamed vegetables or a refreshing salad, like a Classic French Vinaigrette Salad Dressing, to balance the richness of the dish. This meal is perfect for special occasions or family gatherings. For a complete meal, pair it with a light white wine that complements the flavors of the Dijon and potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hens and potatoes in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Adding a splash of white wine can help keep the dish moist during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Hens Dijon contains roughly 542 calories, with 51g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (101% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and potassium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 hens?
Yes, you can substitute regular chicken for Cornish hens. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as larger pieces may require more time to cook through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
What can I serve with Cornish hens?
Cornish hens pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, a delicious grain like quinoa, or a light salad. For additional flavor, try a herb-infused rice or a creamy potato gratin.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cornish hens and potatoes in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).