Honey Glazed Cornish Hens

Introduction

Honey Glazed Cornish Hens are a delightful and elegant choice for a special dinner or holiday meal. These tender, juicy hens are roasted to perfection and coated with a sweet and savory honey glaze, making them an impressive centerpiece for any festive occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens (about 1 1/2 pounds each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 lemon, quartered
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine (for roasting)

Honey Glaze:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Cornish Hens: Pat the hens dry with paper towels. Rub them all over with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Place a quarter of lemon inside each cavity.
3. Roast the Hens: Place the hens on a rack in a roasting pan or on a baking sheet. Pour the chicken broth (or white wine) into the pan to keep the hens moist while roasting. Roast in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Make the Honey Glaze: While the hens are roasting, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika (if using) in a small bowl.
5. Glaze the Hens: After 25 minutes of roasting, remove the hens from the oven and brush them generously with the honey glaze. Return to the oven and roast for another 20-25 minutes, basting with the glaze every 10 minutes, until the skin is golden and caramelized.
6. Rest the Hens: Remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute.
7. Serve: Serve the Honey Glazed Cornish Hens whole or halved, accompanied by your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the honey glaze for a bit of heat.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs like sage or thyme in place of rosemary.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For best results, cover with foil to prevent the glaze from burning.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use regular chicken instead of Cornish hens?
   • Yes, you can use regular chicken pieces. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Is the honey glaze suitable for a vegan diet?
   • The honey glaze is not vegan due to the honey. Substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan alternative.
3. Can I prepare the hens ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can season and prepare the hens a day in advance, then refrigerate until ready to roast.
4. What can I use instead of white wine for roasting?
   • Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as a substitute.
5. How can I ensure the hens are cooked through?
   • Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
6. Can I freeze the cooked Cornish hens?
   • Yes, you can freeze the cooked hens for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
7. What sides pair well with Honey Glazed Cornish Hens?
   • Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a fresh salad are great accompaniments.
8. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the glaze up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
9. How do I make the skin crispy?
   • Ensure the hens are patted dry before seasoning and basting regularly with the glaze.
10. Can I use other fruits in the glaze?
    • Yes, you can substitute honey with fruit preserves or fruit juice for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Honey Glazed Cornish Hens offer a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with a beautifully caramelized exterior. Ideal for a special occasion or holiday feast, this dish not only tastes incredible but also presents beautifully on the table. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll impress your guests with this elegant and delicious meal.

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