Savory Honey-Glazed Cornish Game Hens
Indulge in these Savory Honey-Glazed Cornish Game Hens, perfect for special occasions or a delightful family meal. This recipe combines the succulent tenderness of Cornish hens with a sweet and spicy glaze that will tantalize your taste buds. The blend of honey, chili powder, and orange juice creates a mouthwatering sauce that infuses the meat with flavor while leaving the skin crispy and golden. Serve these hens alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying dinner.
4
Servings
450
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
4 tablespoons (melted)
honey
3 tablespoons (none)
chili powder
4 teaspoons (none)
orange juice
1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
Cornish hens
2 (halved)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the honey and chili powder, stirring the mixture until well combined.
3
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the orange juice, adding salt and pepper to taste. Set the glaze aside.
4
Prepare the Cornish hens by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Cut each hen in half lengthwise.
5
In a large baking dish, arrange the halves of the hens skin side down and bake for 6-8 minutes.
6
Carefully turn the hens over and generously baste them with the honey-chili glaze.
7
Continue to bake for about 45 minutes, or until the hens are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving for enhanced flavor and juiciness.
Nutrition Information
30g
Fat
27.5g
Carbs
25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Honey-Glazed Cornish Game Hens?
This is a poultry dish featuring tender Cornish hens glazed with a sweet and spicy blend of honey, chili powder, and orange juice.
How many Cornish hens are required for this recipe?
The recipe requires two Cornish hens, which are halved to create four servings.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
How do I prepare the glaze?
Melt 4 tablespoons of butter, stir in 3 tablespoons of honey and 4 teaspoons of chili powder, then add 1 tablespoon of orange juice with salt and pepper.
How should the hens be prepared before cooking?
Rinse them under cold water, pat them dry with paper towels, and cut each hen in half lengthwise.
Which side of the hen should face down initially?
The hens should be arranged skin side down in the baking dish for the first part of the cooking process.
How long is the initial baking period?
The hens are baked skin side down for 6 to 8 minutes before being turned over.
When should the glaze be applied?
Apply the honey-chili glaze after turning the hens over, following the initial 6 to 8 minutes of baking.
What is the total baking time after basting?
The hens should continue to bake for about 45 minutes until they are golden brown.
What is the target internal temperature for the hens?
The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 74 degrees Celsius to ensure they are fully cooked.
Is it necessary to let the hens rest after baking?
Yes, letting the hens rest for a few minutes before serving enhances their flavor and juiciness.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 4 servings.
What are the nutritional facts for one serving?
One serving contains 450 calories, 30g of fat, 27.5g of carbohydrates, and 25g of protein.
What type of orange juice is best for this recipe?
Freshly squeezed orange juice is recommended for the best flavor in the glaze.
How much honey is used in the glaze?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of honey.
What gives the glaze its spicy kick?
The spicy flavor comes from 4 teaspoons of chili powder.
Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?
Yes, it is designed for special occasions or as a delightful family meal.
What side dishes are recommended?
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are 7 ingredients: butter, honey, chili powder, orange juice, Cornish hens, salt, and pepper.
Does the skin become crispy?
Yes, the honey-chili glaze helps the skin become crispy and golden while baking.
What is the primary protein source?
The primary protein source is Cornish game hens.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While the recipe specifies butter for its flavor, margarine can be used as a substitute if necessary.
How much chili powder is per hen?
With 4 teaspoons for 2 hens, it is approximately 2 teaspoons of chili powder per hen.
Is there any sugar added beyond the honey?
No, the honey provides the main sweetness for the glaze.
What is the preparation for the butter?
The butter should be melted in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Is salt and pepper included in the measurements?
Salt and pepper are added 'to taste' to the glaze mixture.
What category of food is this recipe?
This recipe is categorized under Poultry.
What is the prep time for the hens?
The hens require rinsing, patting dry, and halving before the initial 6-8 minute bake.
Does the recipe use fresh orange juice?
Yes, the recipe specifically mentions freshly squeezed orange juice.
Can this be served as a holiday meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a great option for a holiday meal or family dinner.