Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing delicious food, and creating lasting memories. While turkey is the traditional star of the holiday feast, Cornish hens have been gaining popularity as a flavorful and elegant alternative.
These petite birds are not only versatile but also perfect for individual servings, making them an excellent choice for intimate family dinners or larger gatherings.
In this blog post, we present 30+ Thanksgiving Cornish hen recipes that showcase a variety of flavors and cooking methods. From savory herb-roasted hens to sweet and tangy glazes, there’s a recipe to satisfy every palate.
So, whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply try something new this Thanksgiving, our curated collection of Cornish hen recipes will inspire your holiday menu and make your celebration truly special.
30+ Mouthwatering Thanksgiving Cornish Hen Recipes to Impress Your Guests
As you prepare for Thanksgiving, consider incorporating Cornish hens into your holiday spread. Their tender meat and ability to absorb a wide range of flavors make them a delightful option for any table.
With 30+ Thanksgiving Cornish hen recipes at your fingertips, you have the perfect opportunity to explore new culinary traditions while still honoring the classics.
From sophisticated main dishes to comforting sides, these recipes will not only elevate your Thanksgiving feast but also create cherished memories with family and friends.
So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to serve a Thanksgiving meal that everyone will remember for years to come!
Herb-Roasted Cornish Hens with Garlic and Lemon
This herb-roasted Cornish hen dish is a classic choice for Thanksgiving. Infused with fresh herbs, garlic, and zesty lemon, it offers a delightful balance of flavors that perfectly complements any holiday feast. The hens are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them an impressive centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 lemons (1 sliced, 1 juiced)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Hens: Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Place them in a roasting pan.
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Season the Hens: Rub the marinade all over the hens, including the cavity. Place lemon slices inside each hen.
- Roast the Hens: Roast the hens in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before carving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.
These herb-roasted Cornish hens are not just a feast for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Their golden skin and fragrant aroma will make them the star of your Thanksgiving dinner. Paired with traditional sides like mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce, this dish will surely impress your guests and create memorable moments around the table.
Maple-Glazed Cornish Hens with Cranberries
This maple-glazed Cornish hen recipe adds a sweet and tangy twist to your Thanksgiving feast. The combination of maple syrup and fresh cranberries creates a delectable glaze that caramelizes beautifully during roasting. Each bite offers a burst of flavor, making this dish a perfect fit for a holiday celebration.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Hens: Rinse and dry the Cornish hens. Place them in a baking dish.
- Make the Glaze: In a bowl, mix maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, melted butter, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir in fresh cranberries.
- Glaze the Hens: Pour the glaze over the hens, making sure they are well coated. Reserve some glaze for basting.
- Roast the Hens: Roast the hens for 50-60 minutes, basting with the reserved glaze every 15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve and Garnish: Once done, let the hens rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve with additional cranberries.
The maple-glazed Cornish hens not only taste divine but also add a pop of color to your Thanksgiving table. The sweet and tangy flavors are a delightful departure from traditional turkey dishes, making it a unique option for your holiday feast. Guests will appreciate the combination of flavors, and it’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your Thanksgiving repertoire.
Stuffed Cornish Hens with Wild Rice and Cranberries
These stuffed Cornish hens are a show-stopping dish for Thanksgiving. Filled with a savory mixture of wild rice, cranberries, and herbs, they offer a comforting and hearty meal. This recipe combines the richness of the hen with the nutty flavors of wild rice, creating a perfect harmony of tastes that will warm your holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 1 cup cooked wild rice
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the Stuffing: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and celery, sauté until soft. Stir in cooked wild rice, dried cranberries, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.
- Prepare the Hens: Rinse the Cornish hens and pat them dry. Stuff each hen with the wild rice mixture, securing the openings with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
- Roast the Hens: Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan. If desired, add chicken broth to the bottom of the pan. Roast for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven and let the hens rest for 10 minutes. Carve and serve with your favorite sides.
Stuffed Cornish hens are not only visually stunning but also provide a delightful dining experience. The combination of the tender hen and the flavorful wild rice stuffing makes for a comforting dish that embodies the essence of Thanksgiving. Your guests will appreciate the effort, and the flavors will linger long after the last bite. This recipe is bound to become a cherished tradition for your holiday celebrations.
Spicy Orange-Glazed Cornish Hens
This spicy orange-glazed Cornish hen recipe brings a vibrant kick to your Thanksgiving table. The combination of sweet orange juice, zesty ginger, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes creates a delightful contrast that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfectly roasted, these hens not only look stunning but also deliver a bold flavor that will elevate your holiday feast.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 orange, sliced for garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Hens: Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens. Place them in a roasting pan, breast side up.
- Make the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, soy sauce, grated ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Glaze the Hens: Pour the glaze over the hens, making sure to coat them evenly. Reserve some for basting.
- Roast the Hens: Roast in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, basting with the reserved glaze every 15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve and Garnish: Once cooked, let the hens rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with orange slices and fresh cilantro before serving.
The spicy orange-glazed Cornish hens will be a standout dish at your Thanksgiving gathering. The unique flavor combination offers a refreshing change from traditional holiday dishes. This recipe not only provides a delicious meal but also a visually appealing presentation. Guests will rave about the sweet and spicy glaze, making it a memorable addition to your holiday table.
Cornish Hens with Pomegranate Molasses and Herbs
These Cornish hens drizzled with pomegranate molasses present an elegant dish for Thanksgiving. The sweet and tangy flavors of pomegranate molasses, combined with fresh herbs, create a rich glaze that enhances the natural flavor of the hens. This dish not only tastes incredible but also looks stunning, making it a perfect choice for a festive holiday meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 1/4 cup pomegranate molasses
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pomegranate seeds for garnish
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Hens: Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens. Place them in a roasting pan.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine pomegranate molasses, olive oil, chopped thyme, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Glaze the Hens: Brush the glaze generously over the hens, ensuring even coverage.
- Roast the Hens: Roast in the oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and caramelized.
- Serve and Garnish: Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and additional fresh herbs.
Pomegranate molasses adds a unique depth of flavor to these Cornish hens, transforming a classic dish into an extraordinary centerpiece for your Thanksgiving meal. The sweet-tart glaze, paired with fresh herbs, elevates the presentation and taste, making it a dish your guests will talk about long after the meal. This recipe embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving—celebrating the richness of flavors and the joy of gathering around the table.
Cornish Hens with Apple and Sage Stuffing
This Cornish hens recipe features a delightful apple and sage stuffing that perfectly complements the tender meat of the hens. The combination of sweet apples, savory sage, and buttery breadcrumbs creates a comforting dish that is ideal for Thanksgiving. This recipe is not only satisfying but also brings the flavors of fall to your holiday celebration.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 2 cups bread crumbs
- 1 cup apples, diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried sage)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the Stuffing: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and celery, sauté until soft. Stir in diced apples, sage, salt, and pepper, cooking until the apples begin to soften. Remove from heat and mix in the bread crumbs and chicken broth.
- Prepare the Hens: Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens. Stuff each hen with the apple and sage mixture, securing the openings with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
- Roast the Hens: Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan and roast for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve and Garnish: Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite fall sides.
The Cornish hens with apple and sage stuffing deliver a warm, homey flavor that captures the essence of Thanksgiving. The sweetness of the apples paired with the earthy notes of sage creates a harmonious balance that is both comforting and festive. This dish will not only impress your guests with its elegant presentation but also provide a delicious and satisfying meal that celebrates the bounty of the season.
Cornish Hens with Maple-Balsamic Glaze and Root Vegetables
This Cornish hen recipe features a delicious maple-balsamic glaze that caramelizes beautifully during roasting, imparting a rich flavor to the hens. Paired with seasonal root vegetables, this dish not only tastes amazing but also provides a vibrant array of colors to your Thanksgiving table. It’s an easy yet impressive dish that captures the essence of fall.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 parsnips, chopped
- 1 sweet potato, diced
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Hens: Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens. Place them in a large roasting pan.
- Make the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Glaze the Hens: Brush the glaze generously over the hens, ensuring they are well coated. Reserve some for basting later.
- Add Vegetables: Surround the hens with chopped carrots, parsnips, sweet potato, and red onion in the roasting pan.
- Roast the Hens: Roast in the oven for about 50-60 minutes, basting with the reserved glaze every 15 minutes. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Allow the hens to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Plate with the roasted root vegetables.
The maple-balsamic glazed Cornish hens combined with roasted root vegetables create a heartwarming dish that embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving. The sweet and tangy glaze enhances the natural flavors of the hens while the caramelized vegetables add texture and taste to the meal. This recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the season and share a special meal with loved ones, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
Mediterranean Cornish Hens with Lemon and Olives
Transport your Thanksgiving table to the Mediterranean with these flavorful Cornish hens infused with lemon and olives. The bright, zesty flavors combined with the briny olives create a unique dish that is both refreshing and savory. This recipe is ideal for those looking to add a little twist to their holiday meal while still enjoying the comfort of roasted poultry.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 lemons (1 juiced and 1 sliced)
- 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Hens: Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens. Place them in a roasting pan.
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Season the Hens: Pour the marinade over the hens, ensuring they are well coated. Stuff the cavity of each hen with lemon slices and a few olives.
- Add Olives: Scatter the remaining olives around the hens in the roasting pan.
- Roast the Hens: Roast in the oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
- Serve and Garnish: Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with a side salad or couscous.
These Mediterranean Cornish hens are a delightful way to introduce new flavors to your Thanksgiving feast. The bright citrus notes paired with the savory olives create a dish that is both sophisticated and comforting. This recipe not only stands out for its unique taste but also brings a vibrant presentation to your holiday table. Your guests will appreciate the fresh twist on a classic dish, making it a memorable addition to your Thanksgiving celebration.
Cornish Hens with Cranberry-Orange Stuffing
This recipe features Cornish hens stuffed with a delightful cranberry-orange mixture that captures the essence of Thanksgiving. The sweet-tart cranberries, combined with zesty orange, provide a refreshing stuffing that complements the rich flavor of the hens beautifully. This dish is sure to become a favorite at your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 2 cups bread cubes
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the Stuffing: In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, fresh cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, chopped onion, chopped celery, melted butter, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Prepare the Hens: Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens. Stuff each hen with the cranberry-orange mixture, securing the openings with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
- Roast the Hens: Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan and roast for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite sides, allowing the stuffing to shine.
Cornish hens with cranberry-orange stuffing offer a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them a standout dish for Thanksgiving. The vibrant stuffing not only adds flavor but also brings a festive touch to your holiday table. This recipe highlights the seasonal ingredients we love during the fall and showcases the joy of gathering with family and friends. Your guests will savor every bite, making this dish a cherished part of your Thanksgiving tradition.
Honey-Garlic Glazed Cornish Hens with Brussels Sprouts
This honey-garlic glazed Cornish hen recipe brings a delightful balance of sweetness and savory flavors to your Thanksgiving table. The sticky glaze caramelizes beautifully during roasting, creating a mouthwatering finish that pairs perfectly with roasted Brussels sprouts. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually stunning, making it an excellent centerpiece for your holiday feast.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Hens: Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens. Place them in a large roasting pan.
- Make the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Glaze the Hens: Brush the glaze generously over the hens, ensuring they are well coated. Reserve some glaze for basting.
- Add Brussels Sprouts: Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in the remaining glaze and scatter them around the hens in the roasting pan.
- Roast the Hens: Roast in the oven for about 50-60 minutes, basting the hens every 15 minutes with the reserved glaze. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme and enjoy.
This honey-garlic glazed Cornish hen recipe delivers an irresistible combination of flavors that perfectly encapsulates the warmth of Thanksgiving. The glaze creates a sticky, caramelized exterior while the Brussels sprouts add a nutritious and vibrant touch to the plate. This dish is sure to become a favorite at your holiday gatherings, leaving your guests raving about the deliciousness long after the meal is over. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the season and create lasting memories with loved ones.
Spiced Cornish Hens with Pomegranate Salsa
Elevate your Thanksgiving dinner with these spiced Cornish hens served with a refreshing pomegranate salsa. The warm spices create a flavorful crust on the hens, while the pomegranate salsa adds a bright and tangy contrast that enhances each bite. This dish offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a standout option for your holiday menu.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Hens: Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens. Place them in a roasting pan.
- Make the Spice Mixture: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the hens.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle olive oil over the hens and rub it in to help the spices adhere.
- Roast the Hens: Roast in the oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Prepare the Salsa: In a separate bowl, combine pomegranate seeds, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Mix well and set aside.
- Serve: Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving. Spoon the pomegranate salsa over the hens and enjoy.
These spiced Cornish hens with pomegranate salsa offer a beautifully balanced dish that will impress your Thanksgiving guests. The warm spices create a comforting flavor, while the pomegranate salsa adds a fresh and vibrant touch that brightens the entire meal. This dish not only tastes exceptional but also presents beautifully, making it an eye-catching addition to your holiday spread. Celebrate the season with this delightful recipe that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds.
Herb-Stuffed Cornish Hens with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Indulge in a comforting Thanksgiving dish with these herb-stuffed Cornish hens served alongside creamy garlic mashed potatoes. The hens are filled with a savory mixture of fresh herbs that infuse each bite with flavor, while the garlic mashed potatoes offer a rich, creamy complement. This recipe brings a traditional touch to your holiday table, ensuring a satisfying and hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 1 cup day-old bread, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Make the Stuffing: In a bowl, combine bread cubes, parsley, thyme, rosemary, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and melted butter. Mix well.
- Stuff the Hens: Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens. Stuff each hen with the herb mixture, securing the openings with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
- Roast the Hens: Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan and roast for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: While the hens roast, boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and return to the pot. Add minced garlic, heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy and smooth.
- Serve: Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with garlic mashed potatoes.
These herb-stuffed Cornish hens paired with garlic mashed potatoes create a comforting and satisfying Thanksgiving meal that will leave your guests feeling warm and content. The fragrant herbs enhance the natural flavor of the hens, while the creamy mashed potatoes provide the perfect side dish. This recipe captures the essence of traditional Thanksgiving flavors and showcases the joy of gathering around the table with family and friends. It’s a dish that will surely create lasting memories during your holiday celebration.
Maple-Balsamic Glazed Cornish Hens with Sweet Potatoes
This maple-balsamic glazed Cornish hen recipe offers a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors that perfectly complements the rich, savory taste of the hens. Roasting them with sweet potatoes creates a delightful one-pan meal that simplifies cleanup while delivering an impressive presentation. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both visually appealing and incredibly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Fresh rosemary for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Hens: Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens, then place them in a large roasting pan.
- Make the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the olive oil over the hens and brush the glaze generously on them.
- Add Sweet Potatoes: Toss the cubed sweet potatoes in the remaining glaze and scatter them around the hens in the roasting pan.
- Roast: Roast in the oven for about 50-60 minutes, basting the hens every 15 minutes with the glaze. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh rosemary and enjoy.
The maple-balsamic glazed Cornish hens with sweet potatoes create an unforgettable Thanksgiving feast that embodies the warmth and flavors of the season. The combination of sweet maple syrup and tangy balsamic vinegar not only enhances the taste of the hens but also elevates the sweet potatoes to a new level. This recipe is a wonderful representation of the holiday spirit, bringing family and friends together around a beautiful, hearty meal that is sure to spark joy and gratitude.
Mediterranean Cornish Hens with Quinoa Tabbouleh
Transport your Thanksgiving feast to the Mediterranean with these herbaceous Cornish hens served alongside a fresh quinoa tabbouleh. The hens are marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon, and aromatic spices, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. Paired with the vibrant tabbouleh, this dish offers a unique and refreshing alternative to traditional Thanksgiving fare, celebrating health and flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup quinoa, cooked
- 1 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Marinate the Hens: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat the Cornish hens in the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Roast the Hens: Place the marinated hens in a roasting pan and roast for about 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Prepare the Quinoa Tabbouleh: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, parsley, cucumber, tomatoes, and green onions. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Serve: Allow the hens to rest for 10 minutes before serving, then plate them alongside a generous helping of quinoa tabbouleh.
These Mediterranean Cornish hens with quinoa tabbouleh offer a refreshing and healthful twist on your Thanksgiving dinner. The marinated hens are full of flavor, while the vibrant tabbouleh adds a fresh, crunchy element that balances the richness of the dish. This recipe not only nourishes the body but also delights the palate, making it a wonderful addition to any Thanksgiving gathering. Celebrate the season with this unique dish that honors tradition while introducing new flavors to your holiday feast.
Stuffed Cornish Hens with Cranberry and Apple
Bring the flavors of the holiday season to your table with these stuffed Cornish hens filled with a delightful mixture of cranberry and apple. This recipe captures the essence of Thanksgiving with its combination of sweet and tart elements, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also bursting with festive colors. Serve this centerpiece dish to impress your guests and elevate your holiday celebration.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 apple, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a bowl, combine bread crumbs, dried cranberries, diced apple, onion, celery, melted butter, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Stuff the Hens: Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens. Stuff each hen with the cranberry-apple mixture, securing the openings with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
- Roast the Hens: Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan and roast for about 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite Thanksgiving sides.
These stuffed Cornish hens with cranberry and apple encapsulate the spirit of Thanksgiving in every bite. The sweet and tart stuffing perfectly complements the tender meat, creating a flavor profile that celebrates the season. This dish is not only satisfying but also visually stunning, making it an ideal centerpiece for your holiday table. Share this delightful recipe with your loved ones, and create cherished memories around the dinner table as you savor the flavors of Thanksgiving together.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!
