These Glazed Cornish Hens offer a perfect balance of savory meat and sweet, aromatic glaze. The tender game hens are roasted until golden brown, then brushed with a rich mixture of apple jelly and warm cinnamon. Served alongside a fluffy bed of wild rice studded with crisp celery and halved red grapes, this dish brings a festive yet homey feel to the table. The addition of toasted cashews adds a delightful crunch and nutty depth. Ideal for intimate dinners or holiday gatherings, this recipe combines classic flavors with elegant presentation, creating a memorable meal that feels both comforting and special.
Glazed Cornish Hens
Description
These Glazed Cornish Hens offer a perfect balance of savory meat and sweet, aromatic glaze. The tender game hens are roasted until golden brown, then brushed with a rich mixture of apple jelly and warm cinnamon. Served alongside a fluffy bed of wild rice studded with crisp celery and halved red grapes, this dish brings a festive yet homey feel to the table. The addition of toasted cashews adds a delightful crunch and nutty depth. Ideal for intimate dinners or holiday gatherings, this recipe combines classic flavors with elegant presentation, creating a memorable meal that feels both comforting and special.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
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In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup apple jelly and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the jelly is melted and smooth. Set aside.
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Place cornish hen halves, skin side up, on a rack in a shallow roasting pan. Sprinkle lightly with salt.
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Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
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Remove pan from oven, brush hens generously with the warm jelly-cinnamon mixture.
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Return to oven and roast for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until skin is browned and meat is tender and cooked through.
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While hens are roasting, prepare the wild rice mix according to package directions.
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Once rice is cooked, stir in remaining 2 tablespoons of apple jelly, halved grapes, and sliced celery. Toss gently to combine.
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Serve the glazed hens alongside the wild rice salad, sprinkled with chopped cashews.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 309.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9.8g16%
- Saturated Fat 1.7g9%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 25.0mg2%
- Total Carbohydrate 54.8g19%
- Dietary Fiber 3.6g15%
- Sugars 33.3g
- Protein 6.8g14%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For extra crispy skin, you can broil the hens for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of apple jelly or add a splash of apple cider vinegar for balance.
Leftover hens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Wild rice blends cook faster than pure wild rice; follow package instructions for best texture.
