Cornish Hens With Pear Or Apricot Preserves
Juicy Cornish hens filled with sweet grapes and glazed with a buttery preserves mixture, offering a delightful blend of savory and fruity flavors. Perfect for special occasions or intimate dinners, this dish pairs well with rice or vegetables for a sophisticated and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fill each hen with 1/4 cup grapes which have been tossed lightly into sugar.
- Mix melted butter, pear or apricot preserves, seasoning salt, and pepper to create a hot mixture.
- Brush each hen generously with the hot mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the Cornish hens in the butter and preserve mixture for a few hours or overnight. If you don't have Sauterne, a sweet white wine or even apple juice can work as a substitute. Adjust the sweetness by using less sugar or opting for a sugar alternative if desired. You can also add herbs like rosemary or thyme for added complexity.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Pair with a light, fruity white wine to complement the sweetness of the pears or apricots. For a delightful dessert, consider following with Tarheel Chocolate Pie or Oreo Icebox Cookies to round out your dinner.
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 (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring they don't dry out. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Hens With Pear Or Apricot Preserves contains roughly 423 calories, with 4g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (114% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 7g 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. Ensure they are fully thawed in the refrigerator before cooking for even results. This may take about 24 hours, so plan ahead!
What can I serve with Cornish hens?
Cornish hens pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a wild rice pilaf. A light salad with vinaigrette also complements the dish beautifully.
How do I ensure the hens are cooked through?
To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Also, ensure the juices run clear when the thigh is pierced. Let the hens rest for a few minutes before serving for juicier meat.
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).