Glazed Cornish Hens Recipe Perfect for Dinner

Hey there! There’s something undeniably charming about individual Cornish hens—they feel a little fancy, a little special, but they’re just as easy to make as roast chicken. I first fell in love with these tiny birds while planning an intimate dinner party, and they’ve been a go-to ever since. Perfectly tender and coated in a show-stopping glaze, they make any meal feel like a celebration. Let’s get into it—you’re going to love this recipe!

Hook: If you’re craving the perfect blend of juicy, savory meat and a caramelized, sticky glaze, these Glazed Cornish Hens are about to steal the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s elegant but approachable—perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or even a special weeknight treat.
• The glaze is the star, with a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that you’ll want to drizzle on everything.
• No guesswork needed! The step-by-step guide ensures perfectly cooked, juicy hens every time.
• Customizable to suit your flavor preferences—play with spices or swap ingredients to make it your own.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Cornish Hens: These smaller birds cook faster than a traditional chicken, making them ideal for individual servings. Look for hens that are about 1 to 1.5 pounds each.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps the glaze adhere to the hens.
• Honey: For natural sweetness and a beautiful caramelized exterior. Maple syrup works too!
• Soy Sauce: Balances the sweetness with a salty, umami kick.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens up the glaze and keeps the flavors fresh.
• Garlic and Herbs: Fresh garlic and a mix of thyme or rosemary infuse the meat with irresistible flavor.

Pro Tip:

Can’t find Cornish hens? This glaze works beautifully on chicken thighs or drumsticks, too!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a roasting pan with foil for easy cleanup.
2. Pat the Cornish hens dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt and pepper, including inside the cavity.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Place the hens in the roasting pan. Brush a generous layer of the glaze over each bird, making sure to coat all sides.
5. Roast the hens, uncovered, for about 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat. Baste with additional glaze every 15 minutes for maximum flavor.
6. During the last 10 minutes, crank up the oven to broil for that golden, caramelized finish. Keep a close eye so they don’t burn!
7. Remove from the oven and let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps retain all their juices.

Just look at that caramelized perfection!

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Basting is key: Don’t skip basting every 15 minutes—it helps the glaze build up and keeps the meat tender.
• Truss the legs: To ensure even cooking and a picture-perfect presentation, tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
• Skip the soggy skin: Patting the hens dry before seasoning helps the skin crisp up beautifully.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to the glaze for a bit of heat.
• Seasonal swaps: Try orange juice instead of lemon for a wintery twist, or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.
• Perfect pairings: Serve these hens with roasted root vegetables, wild rice pilaf, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Drink pairing: A glass of Pinot Noir or a dry Riesling complements the savory-sweet flavors beautifully.

FAQs

• Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! Roast the hens, let them cool, and store in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered, until warm.
• Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
• What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Dried herbs will work in a pinch—just reduce the quantity by half.

Glazed Cornish Hens Recipe Card

These Glazed Cornish Hens are sure to become your new show-stopping main dish. I’d love to see your creations—tag me with #TheKitchensAid, or let me know in the comments how yours turned out!