Apricot-Glazed Cornish Game Hens with Citrus Zest
Elevate your dinner experience with these Apricot-Glazed Cornish Game Hens, perfect for any special occasion. The succulent hens are halved and seasoned to perfection, then roasted to golden-brown perfection. A sweet and tangy glaze made from warm apricot fruit spread and fresh orange juice adds a delightful burst of flavor, ensuring that every bite is a memorable one. Serve alongside seasonal vegetables or a wild rice pilaf for a complete meal that is sure to impress your guests.
4
Servings
450
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cornish hens
2 (halved (1-1/2 lbs. each))
Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon
White pepper
1/8 teaspoon
100% apricot fruit spread
1/3 cup (warmed)
Orange juice
1 tablespoon
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Place the halved Cornish hens, breast side up, on a rack in a shallow roasting pan to allow for even cooking.
3
Sprinkle the hens evenly with kosher salt and white pepper, ensuring they are well seasoned.
4
Bake the hens in the preheated oven, uncovered, for 30 minutes to start cooking and browning the skin.
5
While the hens are baking, prepare the glaze by combining the warmed apricot fruit spread and fresh orange juice in a small bowl, stirring until well mixed.
6
After 30 minutes, remove the hens from the oven and spoon a generous portion of the apricot mixture over each hen, coating them in the sweet glaze.
7
Return the hens to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, basting the hens with the remaining apricot glaze every 10 minutes. Bake until the skin is golden brown and the juices run clear when pierced, indicating they are fully cooked.
8
Once done, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Nutrition Information
22.5g
Fat
20g
Carbs
37.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main dish in this recipe?
The main dish is Apricot-Glazed Cornish Game Hens with Citrus Zest.
How many Cornish game hens are required for this recipe?
You will need two Cornish game hens, each weighing approximately 1-1/2 lbs and halved.
What is the recommended oven temperature for roasting the hens?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How should the Cornish hens be placed in the roasting pan?
Place the halved Cornish hens breast side up on a rack in a shallow roasting pan.
What seasonings are applied to the hens before baking?
The hens are seasoned evenly with kosher salt and white pepper.
How long is the initial baking period before applying the glaze?
The hens are baked uncovered for an initial period of 30 minutes.
What ingredients are used to make the apricot glaze?
The glaze consists of warmed 100% apricot fruit spread and fresh orange juice.
How much apricot fruit spread is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of warmed 100% apricot fruit spread.
How much orange juice should be added to the glaze?
One tablespoon of fresh orange juice is used in the glaze mixture.
When should the glaze be applied to the hens?
Spoon the apricot mixture over the hens after they have baked for the first 30 minutes.
What is the total baking time after the glaze is applied?
The hens should bake for an additional 30 to 35 minutes after glazing.
How often should the hens be basted during the final stage of cooking?
Baste the hens with the remaining apricot glaze every 10 minutes during the final 30-35 minutes of baking.
How can you tell when the Cornish game hens are fully cooked?
They are done when the skin is golden brown and the juices run clear when the meat is pierced.
Should the hens rest after being removed from the oven?
Yes, the hens should rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 450 calories.
How much protein is in one serving of this dish?
Each serving provides 37.5g of protein.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 22.5g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a single serving?
Each serving contains 20g of carbohydrates.
Is this recipe suitable for a holiday meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a holiday recipe and is perfect for special occasions.
What type of pepper is used in this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/8 teaspoon of white pepper.
What kind of apricot spread should be used?
The recipe recommends 100% apricot fruit spread for the glaze.
What are some suggested side dishes for these hens?
Suggested sides include seasonal vegetables or a wild rice pilaf.
What is the total number of ingredients required?
There are 5 main ingredients in this recipe.
Is the apricot fruit spread used cold?
No, the apricot fruit spread should be warmed before mixing with the orange juice.
What equipment is needed for even cooking of the hens?
A rack in a shallow roasting pan is used to allow for even cooking.
What is the flavor profile of the glaze?
The glaze is described as sweet and tangy due to the combination of apricot and citrus.
Are the hens baked covered or uncovered?
The hens are baked uncovered to allow the skin to brown.
What is the preparation required for the Cornish hens?
The hens should be halved and seasoned with salt and pepper.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for home cooks.