Cider Maple Roasted Cornish Hen: A Delicious Recipe for Your Next Dinner Party

Cider Maple Roasted Cornish Hen is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table. Imagine the aroma of tender, juicy hen infused with the sweet notes of maple and the crisp essence of cider wafting through your kitchen. This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also carries a rich history, often associated with festive gatherings and special occasions. The Cornish hen, a smaller and more delicate bird, has been a favorite in many cultures for its succulent meat and ease of preparation.

People love this dish for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crispy skin, combined with the moist, flavorful meat, creates a culinary experience that is both satisfying and memorable. Plus, the convenience of roasting a whole hen makes it an ideal choice for family dinners or entertaining guests. With the Cider Maple Roasted Cornish Hen, you can impress your loved ones while enjoying a dish that is as delightful to prepare as it is to eat. Join me as we explore this exquisite recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish hens (about 1.5 pounds each)
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Marinade

1. In a medium bowl, combine the apple cider, maple syrup, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme. Whisk together until well blended. This marinade is going to infuse the hens with a sweet and savory flavor that’s simply irresistible. 2. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. I usually go for about a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of pepper, but feel free to adjust according to your preference. 3. Place the Cornish hens in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the hens, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. 4. Refrigerate the hens for at least 2 hours, but if you have time, let them marinate overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it incredibly juicy and flavorful.

Preparing the Oven and Vegetables

5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the hens to achieve a crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy. 6. While the oven is preheating, prepare your vegetables. Cut the lemon into wedges and quarter the onion. These will add flavor to the roasting process and complement the sweetness of the cider and maple syrup. 7. After the hens have marinated, remove them from the refrigerator. Take them out of the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off. Discard the marinade, as it has been in contact with raw poultry.

Roasting the Cornish Hens

8. In a large roasting pan, arrange the quartered onion and lemon wedges at the bottom. This will create a flavorful base for the hens to sit on while they roast. 9. Place the Cornish hens on top of the onions and lemons, breast side up. Tuck the wing tips under the hens to prevent them from burning during roasting. 10. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This will help keep the hens moist and create a delicious gravy as they roast. 11. Drizzle a little olive oil over the hens and season them with additional salt and pepper. This will help achieve that beautiful golden-brown color on the skin. 12. Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the hens reaches 165°F (74°C). I like to use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the thigh. 13. About halfway through the roasting time, baste the hens with the pan juices. This will help keep the skin crispy and flavorful. If you notice the skin is browning too quickly, you can cover the hens loosely with aluminum foil.

Finishing Touches

14. Once the hens are done roasting, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender. 15. While the hens are resting, you can prepare a simple gravy if desired. Strain the pan juices into a saucepan, skim off any excess fat, and bring to a simmer. You can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) if you prefer a thicker gravy. 16. Carve the Cornish hens by cutting down the breastbone and separating the legs from the body. Arrange the pieces on a serving platter, and drizzle with the pan juices or gravy. 17. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serving Suggestions

18. Serve the cider maple roasted Cornish hens with your favorite sides. I love pairing them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. The sweet and savory flavors of the hens complement a variety of sides beautifully. 19.

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey into the world of Cider Maple Roasted Cornish Hen, I can confidently say that this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to impress at their next dinner gathering or simply enjoy a cozy meal at home. The combination of sweet maple syrup and tangy cider creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated, making it perfect for any occasion. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your roasted hen with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a vibrant seasonal salad to balance the richness of the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding your favorite herbs or spices, such as rosemary or thyme, to elevate the dish even further. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Cider Maple Roasted Cornish Hen a try. I promise it will not only tantalize your taste buds but also create lasting memories around the dinner table. Once you’ve made it, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your beautiful creation. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together! Print