Glazed Stuffed Cornish Hens
Juicy Cornish hens glazed to perfection, ideal for elegant dinners or special occasions, offering rich flavor and tender meat with simple preparation and classic seasonings.
Ingredients
- 4 (3/4 to 1 lb.) Cornish hens ⓘ
Instructions
- Truss the Cornish hens if planning to put them on a spit.
- Prepare a glaze of your choice (not specified in the recipe).
- Apply the glaze to the hens during roasting for a shiny, flavorful coating.
- Roast the hens at an appropriate temperature until cooked through and glazed.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider marinating the Cornish hens in a mixture of herbs, citrus, and garlic before applying the glaze. For a vegetarian option, try using a glaze made from honey, soy sauce, and ginger for a sweet and savory profile. If you don't have Cornish hens, you can substitute with small game hens or even chicken parts, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the glazed Cornish hens with a side of roasted vegetables or a light Vegetable Health Salad for a balanced meal. For a refreshing drink, pair with Berry Delicious Lemonade to complement the rich flavors of the glaze. The hens also make for an impressive centerpiece at dinner parties, especially when garnished with fresh herbs.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover glazed Cornish hens should be cooled to room temperature and then 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 for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, ensuring the glaze remains glossy and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glazed Stuffed Cornish Hens contains roughly 134 calories, with 23g protein and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value). At about 134 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. When ready to use, reheat gently on the stove to bring back its consistency before applying it to the hens during roasting.
What temperature should I roast the Cornish hens?
Roast the Cornish hens at 375°F for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This will ensure the meat is tender and juicy, while the glaze caramelizes nicely for a beautiful finish.
Can I use a different type of glaze?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different glazes, such as a balsamic reduction or a spicy barbecue sauce, to suit your taste. Each will impart a unique flavor profile to the hens, making them versatile for any occasion.
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).