Rock Cornish Hens
Juicy Cornish hens glazed with sweet apricot preserves and tangy French dressing, perfect for family dinners or special occasions with bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together apricot or peach preserves, creamy French dressing, and dry soup mix.
- Spoon the mixture over the hens.
- Place the hens on a foil-lined pan.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until tender.
- Hens may be cut in half and baked the same way, cut side down.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the apricot preserves mixture. If you don’t have creamy French dressing, a honey mustard or ranch dressing can work as a substitute. To ensure even cooking, let the hens sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. You can also use peach preserves for a slightly different taste profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens with roasted vegetables or a refreshing Five Minute Fruit Salad for a balanced meal. A side of mashed potatoes or a simple green salad pairs nicely as well. For added flavor, drizzle the hens with a bit of the leftover apricot glaze before serving, and consider a light dessert like Coca-Cola Salad Recipe to complete the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked Cornish hens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hens in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be cautious as this may dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rock Cornish Hens contains roughly 255 calories, with 14g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% 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 hens for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Cornish hens. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even baking. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed.
What can I serve with Rock Cornish Hens?
Great pairings include roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a fruity touch, a Five Minute Fruit Salad complements the sweet glaze of the hens beautifully, making for a delicious and colorful plate.
How can I tell when the hens are fully cooked?
To ensure the hens are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F. Additionally, the juices should run clear, not pink, when pierced.
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).