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Apricot-Glazed Cornish Game Hens: Juicy and Irresistibly Crispy!

  • Author: Jessica
  • Total Time: 80 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

These Apricot-Glazed Cornish Game Hens are a delightful combination of juicy, tender meat and a sweet, sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The crispy skin, enhanced by the apricot flavor, creates a mouthwatering experience that is both savory and slightly fruity, making each bite a celebration of flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Cornish Game Hens: 2 whole hens (about 1.5 lbs each), cleaned and patted dry
  • Apricot Glaze:
    • 1 cup apricot preserves
    • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
    • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • Seasoning:
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Vegetables:
    • 1 cup baby carrots
    • 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the apricot preserves, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic to create the glaze.
  3. Season the Cornish game hens inside and out with salt, pepper, and thyme.
  4. Place the hens in a roasting pan and brush generously with the apricot glaze.
  5. Arrange the baby carrots and Brussels sprouts around the hens in the pan.
  6. Roast in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, basting with the glaze every 15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.
  7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Make-ahead: The glaze can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Substitutions: You can use chicken thighs or breasts instead of Cornish game hens for a different cut of meat.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: main dish
  • Method: roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 Cornish game hen with vegetables
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 15 grams
  • Sodium: 600 milligrams
  • Fat: 25 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 7 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 grams
  • Trans Fat: 0 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 20 grams
  • Fiber: 3 grams
  • Protein: 35 grams
  • Cholesterol: 100 milligrams

Keywords: Apricot-Glazed Cornish Game Hens, roasted game hens, apricot glaze, holiday dinner, main dish, easy recipes, poultry recipes, savory and sweet, gourmet cooking, festive meals, family dinner, elegant dinner party

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Find it online: https://tastywithyou.com/apricot-glazed-cornish-game-hens-recipe-deliciously-easy/