Cornish Hens With Sweet And Sour Sauce
Juicy Cornish game hens glazed with a sweet and tangy honey and mustard sauce, perfect for festive dinners or special occasions with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a saucepan, combine melted butter, honey, and Dijon mustard.
- Salt and pepper the hens to taste.
- Place hens in a covered dish; pour the sweet and sour sauce mixture over them.
- Bake approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, basting every 15 to 20 minutes, until hens are tender and brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute the honey with agave syrup or maple syrup. You can also add garlic powder or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the sauce for extra depth. Basting the hens regularly ensures they stay moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They also pair nicely with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the sweet and sour sauce. For a unique twist, serve alongside Karen'S Corn Bread for a comforting, hearty combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cornish hens 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 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Hens With Sweet And Sour Sauce contains roughly 756 calories, with 7g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% 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 regular chicken instead of Cornish hens?
Yes, you can use regular chicken pieces, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as they may take longer to cook through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What can I do with leftover sauce?
Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Use it as a marinade for other meats, a dressing for salads, or drizzle it over roasted vegetables for added flavor. It's versatile and delicious!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the hens and sauce in advance. Simply assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven, and adjust the baking time as needed.
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).