Lime Cornish Hens
Juicy Cornish hens glazed with a tangy lime soy sauce blend, perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions, offering a delightful mix of savory and citrus flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the hens.
- Make stuffing mix.
- Spoon the stuffing into the hens.
- Mix butter with brown sugar, lime juice, white wine, and soy sauce to make the sauce.
- Brush the hens with the sauce.
- Place a trivet in the slow cooker.
- Position the hens on end, neck down, on the trivet.
- Cover and cook on low for 5 to 7 hours.
- Brush the hens with soy sauce once during cooking, if possible.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the Cornish hens in the sauce for a few hours or overnight. If you don’t have white wine, chicken broth or apple juice can be a good substitute. To save time, you can use pre-cooked long grain rice for stuffing, and if you're short on time, try a store-bought stuffing mix. This dish can be paired with sides from American recipes for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lime Cornish Hens with a side of long grain rice and a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Roasted vegetables or a tangy slaw also complement the dish well. For a unique twist, consider pairing it with Hawaiian Delights to enhance the tropical flavors. Garnish with lime wedges for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Lime Cornish Hens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the hens in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, or use the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed. Be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lime Cornish Hens contains roughly 24 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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. Just make sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cooking to ensure even cooking and safety.
What can I use instead of soy sauce?
If you're looking for a soy sauce substitute, try using tamari for a gluten-free option, or a mixture of coconut aminos and a bit of vinegar for a similar flavor profile without soy.
How can I tell when the hens are done cooking?
The Cornish hens are done when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check this by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.
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).