Why Make This Cornish Hen with Apricot Glaze and Wild Rice Dressing
This sumptuous Cornish Hen with Apricot Glaze and Wild Rice Dressing is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant holiday feast. The combination of tender, juicy Cornish hens paired with a sweet and tangy apricot glaze creates a delightful contrast of flavors. Meanwhile, the wild rice dressing, enriched with hearty vegetables and cranberries, offers a wonderful texture and taste. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your guests and bring everyone to the table with anticipation.
How to Make Cornish Hen with Apricot Glaze and Wild Rice Dressing
Making this Cornish hen dish is surprisingly simple, yet it yields incredible results that look and taste gourmet. By following straightforward steps, you can present a beautiful meal that smells divine as it bakes. The rich aroma of apricot mingling with savory spices fills the kitchen, tempting everyone to gather around. Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe approachable and rewarding!
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup wild rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup cranberries
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the Cornish hens in a roasting pan and brush them generously with the apricot glaze.
- Bake the hens for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Meanwhile, prepare the wild rice. In a pot, sauté onion and celery until softened.
- Add the wild rice and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes until the rice is cooked through.
- Stir in cranberries and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the Cornish hens alongside the wild rice dressing for a meal that looks and tastes incredible.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings), this dish approximately contains:
- Calories: 520
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 30g
This meal is not just delicious, but it also provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
How to Serve Cornish Hen with Apricot Glaze and Wild Rice Dressing
Serve your Cornish hen with a side of seasonal vegetables like roasted asparagus or fresh green beans for a colorful plate. For a truly festive touch, you can garnish the plate with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme. This recipe also pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or creamy mashed potatoes.
How to Store Cornish Hen with Apricot Glaze and Wild Rice Dressing
If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cornish Hen with Apricot Glaze and Wild Rice Dressing
- Choosing Hens: Look for hens that are plump and evenly shaped for the best cooking results.
- Marinating: For an even more flavorful glaze, marinate the hens in the apricot mixture for an hour before baking.
- Rice Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the wild rice as different brands may require varying cooking times.
- Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the hens for perfect results.
Delicious Variations
- Fruit Glaze: Try using different fruit preserves, such as peach or raspberry, to change the flavor profile.
- Herbs and Spices: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the wild rice for an extra flavor kick.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Include other vegetables in the wild rice dressing like diced carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of Cornish hens?
Yes! You can certainly substitute split chicken breasts for Cornish hens. Adjust the cooking time as needed, cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with salads, roasted vegetables, or hearty bread. A glass of white wine like Chardonnay also complements the meal beautifully.Can the glaze be made in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apricot glaze a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using it.
Conclusion
Cornish Hen with Apricot Glaze and Wild Rice Dressing is a delightful recipe that combines ease with gourmet flair. It’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or special occasions, impressing everyone at your table with its beautiful presentation and enticing flavors. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe out; you might just find it becoming a favorite tradition. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every bite of this delicious dish! We’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so feel free to share your experiences and recipes!
Cornish Hen with Apricot Glaze and Wild Rice Dressing
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the Cornish hens in a roasting pan and brush them generously with the apricot glaze.
- Bake the hens for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- In a pot, sauté onion and celery until softened.
- Add the wild rice and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes until the rice is cooked through.
- Stir in cranberries and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the Cornish hens alongside the wild rice dressing for a meal that looks and tastes incredible.