These Cornish hens are roasted to golden perfection and bathed in a vibrant plum sauce that balances sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. The sauce, made with frozen lemonade concentrate, chili sauce, and fresh ginger, creates a glossy glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the skin. Aromatic oranges underneath keep the meat moist and add a subtle citrus note. This dish is perfect for holiday dinners or special weeknight meals, offering a sophisticated yet approachable twist on classic poultry. The combination of tender chicken and the rich, fruity sauce makes every bite satisfying.
Vip Cornish Hens With Plum Sauce
Description
These Cornish hens are roasted to golden perfection and bathed in a vibrant plum sauce that balances sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. The sauce, made with frozen lemonade concentrate, chili sauce, and fresh ginger, creates a glossy glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the skin. Aromatic oranges underneath keep the meat moist and add a subtle citrus note. This dish is perfect for holiday dinners or special weeknight meals, offering a sophisticated yet approachable twist on classic poultry. The combination of tender chicken and the rich, fruity sauce makes every bite satisfying.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
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If using frozen Cornish hens, ensure they are completely thawed. Have them split in half if not already done.
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Sprinkle the hens with lemon-pepper seasoning and a dash of salt.
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Arrange the sliced oranges in a single layer in a shallow roasting pan.
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Place the hens, skin side up, on top of the orange slices.
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Roast in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
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While the hens roast, thaw the frozen lemonade concentrate according to package directions.
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In a saucepan, combine the melted margarine, minced onions, grated fresh ginger, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili sauce, soy sauce, thawed lemonade, and any pureed plums if using.
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Whisk the sauce ingredients together until well blended.
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Simmer the sauce over medium heat, stirring frequently, for 15 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Remove the hens from the oven. Pour the hot plum sauce evenly over the hens.
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Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, basting the hens with the pan juices every 5 minutes.
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Transfer the hens to a serving platter. Spoon the remaining pan drippings and sauce over the top.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 326.9kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15.1g24%
- Saturated Fat 4.1g21%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1584.5mg67%
- Total Carbohydrate 52.9g18%
- Dietary Fiber 15.6g63%
- Sugars 15.3g
- Protein 10.0g20%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.