Description
Tender Cornish hens roasted to perfection with a sweet and tangy orange glaze, perfect for special occasions or an elegant family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1 ½ pounds each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the Cornish hens dry with paper towels.
- Rub hens with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
- Place hens in a roasting pan, breast side up.
- In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
- Bring glaze mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5–6 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Brush hens generously with the glaze, reserving some for basting.
- Roast hens for 50–60 minutes, basting with glaze every 15 minutes, until skin is golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure hens reach 165°F for safe consumption.
- Glaze can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For extra crispy skin, broil hens for the last 3–5 minutes of roasting.