Cornish Hens In Orange Sauce
Succulent Cornish hens glazed with a sweet and tangy orange sauce, perfect for elegant dinners or special gatherings, combining citrusy, spicy, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the hens in salt water, then dry them thoroughly.
- Brush the hens with melted butter and place them, skin side down, in a broiler pan.
- Combine orange marmalade, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire, curry powder, ground ginger, and cayenne pepper in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then simmer for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove the sauce from heat and brush it onto the hens.
- Roast the hens for 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Turn the hens and roast for an additional 30 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
- Baste the hens frequently with the sauce during roasting.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, marinate the Cornish hens in the orange sauce for a few hours or overnight. If you don't have red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar can work as a substitute. To achieve crispy skin, make sure to dry the hens thoroughly after soaking. Adding a touch of honey to the sauce can enhance the sweetness, which pairs beautifully with Sweet Potato Casserole(Family Reunion Size).
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They pair well with fluffy rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious orange sauce. Consider offering a light dessert like Dorothy'S Buttermilk Pie to finish the meal on a sweet note.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cornish hens 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, covered with foil to keep them moist. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but this may result in less crispy skin.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Hens In Orange Sauce contains roughly 150 calories, with 6g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (70% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 12g 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 frozen Cornish hens for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Cornish hens, but be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before marinating and cooking. This may take 24 hours, so plan ahead to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve as a side dish with Cornish hens?
Roasted vegetables, such as carrots and Brussels sprouts, or a creamy potato dish complement the flavors of the hens. A light salad with citrus dressing can also enhance the meal, creating a refreshing balance.
How can I tell when the Cornish hens are fully cooked?
The hens are fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh to check. The juices should run clear, and the skin should be golden brown.
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).