Cornish Game Hen
Cornish game hen (also Rock Cornish game hen) is the USDA-approved name for a particular variety of broiler chicken, produced from a cross between the Cornish and White Plymouth Rock chicken breeds, that is served young and immature, weighing no more than two pounds (900 g) ready to cook.
Despite the name, the Cornish game hen is not a game bird. The name is doubly a misnomer because males and females are served as Cornish game hens, meaning many are not hens. Bred to develop a large breast over a short period, the fowl weighs roughly 2.5 pounds (1.1 kilograms) when slaughtered at four to six weeks of age and typically commands a higher price per pound than mature chicken. Adult Cornish game hens do not possess a smaller size than standard broiler chickens; their cooked size results solely from slaughtering them at a very young age. The Cornish game hen earns recognition for its tender meat, readily absorbing marinades and seasonings. (Wikipedia)
Ingredients
2 cornish hens
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
fresh thyme or rosemary
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons orange juice concentrate
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Cooking Cornish Hens
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Remove parts inside hens like the neck and giblets to make these honey-roasted cornish hens. Rinse inside cavity well with water and pat dry. sprinkle hens with salt and pepper inside and out. Place an herb sprig in each cavity of the hens. Fold wings under backs to lock them in place. Tie legs together at ankles with kitchen string. Brush skin with soft butter. Place in pan with breast side up. Roast for 25 minutes.
For the glaze, mix honey, orange juice, and soy sauce.
Remove hens and brush with glaze. Roast for an additional 25 minutes. Enjoy!!
If you cannot find fresh herbs you can use an onion, garlic, or an orange wedge on the inside for flavor
