Cornish Hens Tarragon
Juicy Cornish hens are marinated in a tangy tarragon vinegar mixture with garlic and green onions, perfect for flavorful, elegant family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except oil and hens in a food processor and blend until smooth.
- Gradually add vegetable oil while the processor is running until the mixture is thick.
- Cut the Cornish game hens in half and remove the backbone.
- Rub the marinade into the hens thoroughly.
- Marinate the hens at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using fresh tarragon instead of dried, and feel free to substitute the sugar with honey for a more complex sweetness. If tarragon vinegar is unavailable, white wine vinegar can work in a pinch. When marinating, try to use a resealable bag to ensure every part of the hens gets coated evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens alongside a refreshing Orange Cabbage Slaw and some roasted vegetables for a colorful plate. They also pair beautifully with cranberry sauce or a side of Chilled Marinated Carrots for a festive touch. For a complete meal, consider adding Harvest Bars for dessert, providing a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover marinated Cornish hens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option, making sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Hens Tarragon contains roughly 590 calories, with 16g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (121% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (89% of the Daily Value), and calcium (59% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1681mg per serving (73% 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 whole chickens instead of Cornish hens?
Yes, you can use whole chickens in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they will require longer to cook through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the Dijon mustard used does not contain gluten. Always check labels to ensure the ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially if you're serving guests with dietary restrictions.
What should I do if I don’t have a food processor?
If you don't have a food processor, you can finely chop the garlic and green onions, then whisk the marinade ingredients together in a bowl. This method will still yield a delicious result, though it may take a bit more time to combine everything thoroughly.
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).