Tasty And Juicy Cornish Game Hen Recipes For 2023
What is Cornish Game Hen?
Cornish game hen, also known as a Rock Cornish hen, is a hybrid chicken bred for its small size and tender meat. It was created in the 1950s by crossing the Cornish and White Plymouth Rock breeds. Cornish game hens are typically slaughtered at 5–6 weeks of age, when they’re still young and their meat is more tender than that of an adult chicken. They’re typically roasted whole, and their small size makes them a popular choice for individual servings.
The Benefits of Eating Cornish Game Hen
Cornish game hens are a great source of lean protein. A 3-ounce serving of the cooked meat contains about 17 grams of protein and just 2.3 grams of fat. The same serving size has 0.8 grams of saturated fat and no carbohydrates. It’s also a good source of minerals like iron, selenium, and zinc. Cornish game hens are also low in calories, with just 128 calories per 3-ounce serving. This makes them a good choice for those on weight-loss diets.
Delicious Cornish Game Hen Recipes to Try in 2023
1. Roasted Cornish Game Hens with Herbs
For a simple and delicious dish, try this roasted Cornish game hen recipe. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse your Cornish game hens and pat them dry. Rub them with softened butter, then season them with salt, pepper, and any herbs you like. Place the hens in a baking dish and roast them for about 40 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted into the thigh reads 165°F (74°C). Serve with a fresh green salad for a delicious meal.
2. Cornish Game Hens with Honey and Mustard Glaze
If you’re looking for something a little sweeter, try this honey and mustard glaze. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix together 1/4 cup (60 mL) of honey, 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of olive oil, 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 mL) of garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 mL) of black pepper. Rinse the Cornish game hens and pat them dry. Rub the glaze all over the hens and place them in a baking dish. Roast them for about 40 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted into the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
3. Stuffed Cornish Game Hens
For a more impressive dish, try stuffing your Cornish game hens. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by making your stuffing. For a classic version, sauté some chopped onion and celery in butter until softened. Add 1 cup (160 g) of cooked rice and 1/2 cup (120 mL) of chicken broth and mix until combined. Rinse and pat dry your Cornish game hens, then fill them with the stuffing. Truss the hens with kitchen twine or use toothpicks to secure the openings. Place them in a baking dish and roast for about 40 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted into the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
4. Cornish Game Hen with Citrus Glaze
This tangy citrus glaze is a great way to dress up your Cornish game hens. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix together 1/4 cup (60 mL) of orange juice, 1/4 cup (60 mL) of honey, 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of olive oil, 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of grated ginger, 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of ground cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 mL) of salt. Rinse the Cornish game hens and pat them dry. Rub the glaze all over the hens and place them in a baking dish. Roast them for about 40 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted into the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
5. Barbecue Cornish Game Hens
For a summer favorite, try these barbecued Cornish game hens. Start by preheating your grill to medium. Rinse the Cornish game hens and pat them dry. Mix together 1/4 cup (60 mL) of honey, 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of olive oil, 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of paprika, 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of chili powder, and 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 mL) of salt. Rub the mixture all over the hens, then place them on the grill. Grill them for about 40 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted into the thigh reads 165°F (74°C). Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Conclusion
Cornish game hens are a tasty and versatile dish that can be served as an individual meal or used in a variety of recipes. Whether you’re looking for something simple to whip up on a weeknight or a more impressive dish for a special occasion, these recipes for Cornish game hens are sure to please. So, why not give one of these recipes a try this year? You won’t be disappointed.