Succulent Baked Cornish Game Hens
Description
Indulge in this delightful and savory recipe for Cornish Game Hens that offers a delicious twist on traditional baking. Originating from “Light & Easy Diabetes Cuisine,” this dish is not only easy to prepare but also brings a gourmet feel to your table, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With the aromatic blend of herbs and spices, these hens are sure to impress and satisfy.
Recipe Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 36 minutes |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 51 minutes |
| Category | Chicken |
| Servings | 4 |
| Aggregated Rating | 5 (2 reviews) |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dried dill weed | 2 teaspoons |
| Dried oregano leaves | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Shallots | 1, diced |
| Vermouth | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh parsley | 1/2 cup, chopped |
| Cornish game hens | 2, halved (skin removed) |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210.6 |
| Total Fat | 9.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 108.8 mg |
| Sodium | 84.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 4.7 g |
| Fiber | 0.7 g |
| Sugars | 1.8 g |
| Protein | 25.4 g |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This step is essential for ensuring even cooking of the game hens.
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Prepare the Hens: Carefully remove the skin from the Cornish game hens. This will help to reduce the fat content while allowing the flavorful seasoning to penetrate the meat. Once skinned, cut each hen in half, discarding the backbones.
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Seasoning: Generously season both sides of the hen halves with the dried dill weed, oregano leaves, pepper, and paprika. This will infuse the meat with aromatic flavors that complement the natural richness of the game hen.
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Searing: In a large non-stick skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned hens to the skillet. Sear the hens for about 4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. This step not only enhances flavor but also creates a beautiful color on the meat.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Carefully transfer the seared hens to a baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced for optimal cooking.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and diced shallots. Sauté them for approximately 1 minute, just until they are fragrant and slightly softened. This process will elevate the overall taste of the dish.
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Create the Sauce: Pour in the vermouth and a splash of orange juice, swirling the mixture to combine. The acidity from the vermouth and sweetness from the orange juice will create a delightful sauce that enriches the hens.
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Baking: Pour the aromatic sauce over the hens in the baking dish. Cover the dish with foil (using release foil can be very helpful for easy removal). Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, basting the hens with the pan juices a few times throughout the cooking process. This will help keep the meat moist and flavorful.
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Increase Heat: After 20 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Remove the foil from the baking dish and continue to bake for an additional 5 minutes. This will help to crisp up the skin and add a lovely finish to the dish.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of sliced almonds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the succulent Cornish game hens with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. The rich flavors of the hens pair beautifully with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea, making this dish a perfect centerpiece for any dining experience.
Keywords
Poultry, Onions, Vegetable, Meat, Savory, < 60 Mins, Oven, Stove Top
Indulge in this elegant dish that is both simple to prepare and deliciously satisfying. Enjoy the delightful flavors and enjoy a special meal that is sure to impress your family and friends!
