Cornish Hens With Apple Glaze
Juicy Cornish hens glazed with a sweet and spicy apple sauce, perfect for intimate dinners or special occasions, offering a delightful combination of savory and fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove giblets from hens.
- Rinse hens with cold water and pat dry.
- Split each hen lengthwise using a knife.
- Place hens, cavity side up, on a rack in a shallow roasting pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For juicy Cornish hens, consider brining them for a few hours before cooking. You can substitute apple juice concentrate with homemade apple cider if preferred, or use other fruit juices like pear for a unique twist. Ensure the hens are patted dry to achieve a crispy skin. Adding fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens drizzled with the warm apple glaze for a delightful touch. Pair them with sides like roasted vegetables or Baked French Fries for a comforting meal. A fresh salad can also add brightness. This dish pairs beautifully with a tart cranberry sauce or applesauce for a festive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cornish hens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the hens with foil to prevent drying out, heating for about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium heat, covered, for 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Hens With Apple Glaze contains roughly 190 calories, with 23g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value). At about 190 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents food safety issues. Plan for at least 24 hours of thawing time for best results.
What can I use instead of cornstarch for the glaze?
If you need a substitute for cornstarch, you can use all-purpose flour or arrowroot powder in the same amount. However, keep in mind that it may slightly alter the texture of the glaze. Mix it with cold water first to avoid clumping when adding to the apple juice concentrate.
How can I tell when the Cornish hens are fully cooked?
To ensure the Cornish hens are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced, and the meat should no longer be pink.
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).