When culinary curiosity beckons, and the desire for an extraordinary meal awakens, Cornish hens step into the spotlight as the perfect choice. Offering a balance between distinctiveness and affordability, these delightful hens are the ideal canvas for experimenting with flavors. Our Cornish Hens with Honey-Lime Glaze recipe offers a sophisticated dining experience, whether it’s an intimate stay-at-home date night or any special occasion meant for two.
Enhancing the tender succulence of the Cornish hens is a delectable honey-lime glaze that effortlessly marries sweetness with zesty brightness. The gluten-free nature of this recipe ensures that dietary preferences are respected, while the effortless preparation and elegant presentation ensure an unforgettable culinary journey. Complement this dish with simple yet delightful sides, such as brown rice and Brussels Sprouts (page 152).
Yield: 2–3 servings
Prep Time: 15 minute
Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 Cornish game hen (1½–2 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Begin by splitting the Cornish game hen into halves. To do this, cut through the breast bone and down one side of the backbone.
- In a small bowl, combine the honey, lime juice, and poultry seasoning, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Brush or rub this mixture onto all sides of the Cornish hen halves. Season them with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Prepare the air fryer basket by giving it a light coat of cooking spray. Place the Cornish hen halves in the basket, ensuring that they’re positioned skin-side down.
- Set the air fryer temperature to 330°F and allow the Cornish hens to cook for approximately 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the juices run clear upon piercing the leg joint with a fork. Before slicing, allow the hens to rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
TIP:
- For a sublime serving suggestion, place a bed of brown rice on the plates first. Gently remove the Cornish hen halves from the air fryer and flip them over onto the rice, allowing the flavorful juices to cascade down and infuse the rice with their essence.
Embark on a culinary journey that embraces both sophistication and simplicity with our Cornish Hens with Honey-Lime Glaze. These tender and succulent hens, infused with a delightful combination of honey and zesty lime, invite you to experience an intimate dining occasion meant to captivate your senses. With an air of elegance and a burst of flavors, this dish resonates with the perfect blend of sweet and tangy notes. Embrace the essence of culinary exploration as you savor every bite, and consider accompanying this dish with brown rice and Brussels Sprouts to complete the gastronomic delight.
