Cranberry-Glazed Cornish Game Hens
Juicy Cornish game hens glazed with a tangy cranberry-orange sauce, perfect for festive occasions or family dinners, offering a balance of sweet, citrusy, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Truss the hens and sprinkle inside and out with salt and pepper.
- Roast the hens according to the directions on the package.
- Thirty minutes before the hens are done, heat the cranberry sauce, orange juice concentrate, orange rind, and poultry seasoning.
- Brush the hens with the cranberry glaze every 5 minutes until they are cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider using a homemade cranberry sauce instead of canned, or add spices like thyme or rosemary for extra depth. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, mix in a bit of honey or brown sugar. Ensure the hens are fully thawed before cooking, as this will help them roast evenly. Using a meat thermometer can help check for doneness without overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cranberry-glazed Cornish game hens alongside roasted vegetables or a light salad for a well-rounded meal. Pair with mashed potatoes or a grain like quinoa to soak up the delicious glaze. This dish pairs beautifully with Glen'S Punch for a festive touch, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cranberry-glazed Cornish game hens should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, basting with remaining glaze to keep them moist. Alternatively, you can microwave them briefly, but be cautious not to dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry-Glazed Cornish Game Hens contains roughly 176 calories, with 1g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (211% of the Daily Value) and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 803mg per serving (35% 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 game hens for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Cornish game hens. Just ensure they are fully thawed in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and ensures a juicy result. Plan ahead to allow enough time for thawing to avoid any issues on cooking day.
What can I substitute for orange juice concentrate?
If you don't have orange juice concentrate, fresh orange juice works well as a substitute. You may need to adjust the sweetness by adding a tablespoon of sugar or honey. Alternatively, a splash of apple juice can also provide a nice flavor that complements the cranberry glaze.
How do I know when the Cornish game hens are done cooking?
The best way to determine if the Cornish game hens are done is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear when the hens are pierced, indicating they are fully cooked.
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).