Cornish Hens With Duck Sauce
Cornish Hens with Duck Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender, roasted Cornish hens with a sweet and tangy sauce made from apricot and peach preserves. Perfect for a family gathering or special occasion, this dish offers a unique twist on traditional poultry, appealing to those who enjoy bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bake hens at 350° for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, marinate the Cornish hens in the duck sauce overnight. You can substitute the apricot and peach preserves with your favorite fruit preserves or even homemade versions for a fresh twist. If you want a spicy kick, increase the red pepper slightly. Use Rice-A-Roni for stuffing, but feel free to experiment with other stuffing options like quinoa or couscous.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad. A refreshing Banana-Nut Salad complements the dish nicely. Drizzle additional duck sauce over the hens before serving for extra flavor. For a complete meal, consider pairing with a glass of Mulled Wine to enhance the festive experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hens in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Cover with foil to retain moisture, ensuring that they don’t dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Hens With Duck Sauce contains roughly 565 calories, with 22g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value) and protein (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 519mg per serving (23% 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 other types of preserves for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the apricot and peach preserves with any fruit preserves you prefer, such as raspberry or blackberry, to create a different flavor profile. Just ensure the preserves are similar in consistency for best results.
What can I serve with Cornish hens?
Cornish hens pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with roasted potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a vibrant salad like Strawberry Fruit Salad for a touch of sweetness. Grains like couscous or wild rice also complement the dish beautifully.
How do I know when the Cornish hens are fully cooked?
To ensure the Cornish hens are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving for optimal juiciness.
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).