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–+ servings
Cider-Glazed Cornish Hen

Cider-Glazed Cornish Hen

Discover the magic of Cider-Glazed Cornish Hen with sweet maple and tangy cider flavors. Perfect for cozy meals or impressing guests effortlessly.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3-4 large yellow potatoes cut into wedges
  • 1/2 - 1/3 yellow onion quartered
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil divided
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme plus extra leaves for garnish
  • 2 cups apple cider
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch or flour for thickening
  • 6 mushrooms sliced
  • 1/2 large apple sliced
  • fresh parsley and thyme for garnish

Equipment

  • Roasting pan
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring spoons
  • Sharp knife
  • Silicone brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and mix all spices in a small bowl.
  2. Pat the Cornish hens dry and rub the spice mix all over them, including under the skin. Let sit for about 10 minutes.
  3. In a large roasting pan, spread out the onions, potatoes, and two sprigs of thyme. Place the hens on top, breast-side up, and drizzle olive oil over both the hens and veggies.
  4. Roast uncovered in the oven for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the apple cider and maple syrup in a saucepan, whisk in cornstarch or flour until smooth, and let it simmer.
  5. After 20 minutes, pour half a cup of glaze over each hen, add mushrooms and apple slices, cover loosely with foil, and return to the oven for 20 minutes. Remove foil and roast for 5 minutes to caramelize the glaze.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

If you can't find Cornish hens, small whole chickens will work as a substitute.
For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp salad for a complete meal. Don’t skip the garnish with fresh herbs for added color and freshness!
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