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Cider Maple Oven Roasted Cornish Hen

Cider Maple Oven Roasted Cornish Hen for Cozy Fall Nights

A delightful Cider Maple Oven Roasted Cornish Hen recipe that captures the essence of fall with sweet maple syrup and apple cider.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 hens
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Hens
  • 2 Cornish Hens Small game hens that deliver tender, juicy meat.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Enhances flavor and helps seasonings stick.
  • 1 tablespoon Seasoning Rub Customize with garlic, herbs, and sea salt.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Dutch Potatoes Can substitute with red or fingerling potatoes.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Can swap with shallots for milder flavor.
  • 3 sprigs Fresh Thyme Use less if using dried thyme.
For the Sweet and Savory Sauce
  • 1 cup Apple Cider Unsweetened apple juice can be a lighter alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Pure Maple Syrup Can substitute with honey.
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch or Flour Gluten-free options available.
For the Flavor Boosters
  • 1 cup Mushrooms Seasonal veggies like carrots or parsnips can substitute.
  • 1 medium Apple Firm varieties like Granny Smith add tartness.

Equipment

  • Roasting Pan
  • Oven
  • Saucepan
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) for crispy skin.
  2. Remove giblets from the hens and pat them dry with paper towels.
  3. Mix seasoning rub ingredients and coat the hens thoroughly.
  4. Prepare the roasting pan with sliced potatoes and onions, and add thyme.
  5. Place the hens on top and drizzle olive oil over them.
  6. Roast the hens uncovered for 20 minutes to start caramelization.
  7. Combine apple cider and maple syrup in a saucepan and simmer.
  8. Drizzle half of the sauce over the hens and add mushrooms and apple.
  9. Cover with foil and bake for another 20 minutes.
  10. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to crisp skin.
  11. Let the hens rest briefly before serving with pan drippings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1henCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure hens reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C); allow to rest before serving for juicy meat.

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