Cranberry Cornish Hens
Cranberry Cornish Hens offer a flavorful combination of tender poultry with tangy cranberry and citrus notes, perfect for festive occasions or an elegant dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cranberry sauce, sugar, orange peel, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Add toasted raisin bread cubes to the mixture.
- Sprinkle with half the melted butter and 4 teaspoons of orange juice.
- Toss to evenly coat the bread cubes with the mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting the toasted raisin bread with a nutty whole grain bread for added texture. If you prefer a sweeter touch, use cranberry-pomegranate sauce instead of plain cranberry sauce. Make sure to let the mixture sit for a few minutes after tossing to allow the flavors to meld together. This dish is perfect for special occasions and pairs beautifully with Danish Apple Pudding.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cranberry Cornish Hens alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. A side of Mushroom-Egg Quiche can complement this dish nicely, especially during brunch. Drizzle any leftover cranberry sauce over the hens just before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cranberry Cornish Hens can be stored 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 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For best results, cover with foil to prevent drying out while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Cornish Hens contains roughly 503 calories, with 3g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1788mg per serving (78% 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 prepare the stuffing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, allow it to come to room temperature before stuffing the Cornish hens to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for the orange juice?
If you don't have orange juice, you can use apple juice or even a splash of lemon juice mixed with water to retain acidity. However, the flavor profile will change slightly, so choose based on your taste preference.
How long should I cook the Cornish hens?
Typically, Cornish hens should be roasted at 375°F (190°C) for about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on their size. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Basting with the pan juices can enhance flavor and moisture.
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).