Plantation Cornish Hens
Plantation Cornish Hens offer tender, flavorful meat with sweet pineapple and orange marmalade glaze, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the Cornish hens lengthwise into halves.
- Sprinkle the hens with salt and pepper.
- Brush the hens with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the Cornish hens in the pineapple juice from the can for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have orange marmalade, apricot jam can be a great substitute. Always check that the hens are cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A side of roasted vegetables can complement this dish nicely, adding color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Plantation Cornish Hens alongside a fresh green salad or some rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For a tropical twist, pair with a fruit salad or the Fruit Dip Ii for dessert. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, as it offers a beautiful presentation and delightful flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Plantation 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 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but be mindful to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plantation Cornish Hens contains roughly 483 calories, with 3g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value), potassium (14% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1818mg per serving (79% 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 regular chicken instead of Cornish hens?
Yes, you can substitute regular chicken for Cornish hens, but cooking times will vary. Ensure that the chicken pieces are evenly sized for consistent cooking, and check for doneness with a meat thermometer to reach the safe internal temperature.
What can I serve with Plantation Cornish Hens?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with mashed potatoes or a quinoa salad for a wholesome meal. You might also enjoy it with roasted asparagus or the classic Working Girls Rolls for a comforting touch.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the hens before baking. Additionally, incorporating garlic into the butter or adding some ginger to the pineapple chunk mixture can elevate the dish further, creating a more complex flavor profile.
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).