Cran-Orange Glazed Cornish Hen
Juicy Cornish hens glazed with tangy cranberry sauce and bright orange peel create a festive, flavorful dish perfect for special occasions or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Place hens, breast side up, in a roasting pan.
- Rub hens evenly with pepper.
- Roast about 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium heat, cook cranberry sauce, orange peel, and garlic for about 3 minutes until the cranberry sauce melts.
- Brush hens evenly with the cranberry-orange sauce.
- Continue to roast for 15 minutes longer until hens are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavors, consider adding a splash of orange juice to the cranberry sauce while it cooks. If you want a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be a great addition. For a healthier alternative, you can use skin-on Cornish hens for added flavor and moisture. If cranberry sauce is unavailable, try using a similar fruit preserve like raspberry or apricot.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Cran-Orange Glazed Cornish Hen with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or wild rice. For an added touch, consider a glass of Green Fruit Punch to complement the dish's flavors. This dish is perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cornish hen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hen in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, but the oven method helps retain crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cran-Orange Glazed Cornish Hen contains roughly 196 calories, with 8g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 9g 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 frozen Cornish hens for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Cornish hens, but be sure to completely thaw them in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cooking. Cooking from frozen is not recommended as it may lead to uneven cooking.
How do I know when the hens are fully cooked?
The hens are fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the hens and apply the glaze ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before roasting. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before placing them in the oven.
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).