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Cornish Game Hen Apricot Glaze: A Delicious Recipe for Your Next Dinner Party

Deliciously roasted Cornish game hens glazed with a sweet and tangy apricot sauce, making it a perfect dish for special dinners or holiday gatherings.

  • Total Time: 75 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 Cornish game hens (about 1 to 1.5 pounds each)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup apricot preserves
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Rinse the Cornish game hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
  3. Generously season the inside and outside of each hen with salt and pepper.
  4. Drizzle olive oil over the hens and rub it all over the skin.
  5. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and paprika. Rub this mixture all over the hens.
  6. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well.
  7. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  8. Taste the glaze and adjust with more apple cider vinegar or apricot preserves as desired.
  9. Place the seasoned hens breast-side up in a roasting pan.
  10. Generously coat the hens with the apricot glaze, reserving some for basting.
  11. Roast in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, basting every 15-20 minutes.
  12. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  13. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes.
  14. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired.
  15. Carve the hens and serve on a platter, drizzling any remaining glaze over the top.

Notes

  • Choosing the Hens: Look for plump hens with good fat under the skin for moist meat.
  • Marinating Option: Marinate the hens in the apricot glaze for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
  • Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Author: Aria
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes