Cornish Hens Mandarin
Juicy Cornish hens glazed with a sweet and savory orange-marmalade soy marinade, perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions, appealing to poultry lovers and citrus enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine soy sauce, orange marmalade, melted butter, minced garlic, ground ginger, dry mustard, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Marinate the Cornish hens in the mixture overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place marinated hens in a baking dish and bake for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
- Bring the remaining marinade to a boil in a small saucepan.
- Baste the hens with the boiling marinade periodically during baking to enhance flavor and moisture.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, let the hens marinate for at least 12 hours. If you don't have ground ginger, fresh ginger can be grated as a substitute. You can also use honey instead of orange marmalade for a different sweetness. Ensure the hens are evenly coated for the best results. For crispy skin, broil them for a few minutes at the end of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They pair wonderfully with rice or couscous, which can soak up the delicious marinade. A light citrus vinaigrette would complement the dish perfectly. Consider serving alongside the Macadamia Nut Crunch Torte for a delightful dessert finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cornish hens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Hens Mandarin contains roughly 110 calories, with 11g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2082mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of poultry for this recipe?
Yes, you can use small whole chickens or game hens as substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as larger birds will require more time in the oven. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
What can I do with the leftover marinade?
While it's not safe to reuse the marinade that has been in contact with raw poultry, you can reserve some before marinating for basting. If you boil the leftover marinade thoroughly, it can be used as a sauce to drizzle over the cooked hens or as a base for a glaze.
How can I tell when the Cornish hens are done cooking?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone; it should read 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear, not pink, when pierced.
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).