Let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite recipes: Apricot-Glazed Cornish Hens. I first made this dish for a special family gathering, and ever since then, it has become a staple in my kitchen. I’ve made it so many times that I can practically prepare it in my sleep! The blend of sweet apricots and savory herbs creates a melody of flavors that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also impresses everyone at the table. Trust me, you’ll want to add this to your dinner repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Apricot-Glazed Cornish Hens
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for special occasions.
- Versatile Dish: You can serve these hens with a variety of sides, making it adaptable to any meal theme.
- Mouthwatering Flavor: The combination of sweet apricot glaze and savory herbs will have everyone asking for seconds!
- Stunning Presentation: These beautifully glazed hens are bound to wow your guests and make your dinner table look gourmet.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prep the hens in advance, making it a perfect choice for busy hosts.
The Secret to Perfect Apricot-Glazed Cornish Hens
The secret to achieving the perfect Apricot-Glazed Cornish Hens lies in the glaze itself. Using high-quality apricot preserves is essential, as it provides that rich sweetness and depth of flavor. I like to mix in a touch of Dijon mustard and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of sophistication. A tip I learned over the years is to let the hens marinate in the glaze for at least an hour (or even overnight!) before roasting. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, ensuring every bite is bursting with deliciousness. You can totally do this! I promise it’s not as intimidating as it sounds.
Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers
“I made these for a dinner party, and everyone raved about them! The apricot glaze was the perfect touch.” – Sarah G.
“I never thought I could impress my in-laws, but this recipe did just that! Thanks for sharing!” – Mark T.
“The hens were juicy, and the flavor was absolutely incredible. This is now my go-to recipe!” – Julie R.
Creative Variations to Try
- Mango-Glazed Variation: Substitute mango preserves for apricot for a tropical twist.
- Spicy Apricot Glaze: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy kick!
- Herb-Infused Butter: Smear the hens with a mix of garlic and fresh herbs under the skin before glazing.
- Maple Apricot Glaze: Mix in some pure maple syrup with the apricot preserves for a rich, sweet flavor.
- Bonus: For a smokier flavor, try adding a touch of smoked paprika to the glaze.
FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!
Can I use chicken instead of Cornish hens? Absolutely! The glaze works wonderfully on regular chicken pieces as well.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I freeze the cooked hens? Yes, you can freeze cooked Cornish hens for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.
What can I substitute for apricot preserves? If you can’t find apricot preserves, peach or orange marmalade can work in a pinch!
How long do I roast the hens? Roast them for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Storage/Serving Tips
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, wild rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Consider garnishing with fresh herbs to enhance the presentation.
Perfect Occasions for Apricot-Glazed Cornish Hens
- Family gatherings or holiday dinners.
- Anniversary celebrations or romantic date nights.
- Hosting friends for a cozy dinner party.
- Celebrating special milestones like birthdays.
- Game nights where you want to impress your friends!
The Complete Recipe
Thank you for sticking with me! I can’t wait for you to try making these Apricot-Glazed Cornish Hens. Here’s how to do it:
Apricot-Glazed Cornish Hens
Ingredients
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1.5 pounds each)
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Tip: For extra flavor, you can also add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the glaze for some acidity. This balances the sweetness beautifully!
Extend ingredients section: You can use any of your favorite herbs, like rosemary or sage, or even add a bit of lemon zest for brightness. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a fruit-based stuffing inside the hens for added flavor and moisture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your hens will roast evenly and develop a beautiful golden color.
Step 2: Prepare the Glaze
In a mixing bowl, combine the apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined. The smell of this glaze is absolutely divine!
Step 3: Marinate the Hens
Place the Cornish hens in a large resealable bag or a glass dish. Pour the apricot glaze over them, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or up to overnight. This is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Roast the Hens
Take the hens out of the marinade and place them in a roasting pan. Pour any remaining glaze over the top. Roast in the preheated oven for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the hens with the juices every 30 minutes for extra flavor.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once done, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy. Serve with your favorite sides and watch everyone’s eyes light up!
Nutrition Info: Each serving (1/2 hen) approximately contains 350 calories, 20g fat, 25g protein, and 15g carbohydrates.
Extend instructions: If you want to create an impressive presentation, consider serving the hens on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs and slices of citrus. You might also want to drizzle some extra glaze over the top before serving for that show-stopping finish!
Final Thoughts
I can’t express enough how much I adore these Apricot-Glazed Cornish Hens. They are a game-changer for any dinner, whether it’s an intimate meal or a big celebration. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, coupled with the ease of preparation, makes this dish a must
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