Apple-Glazed Cornish Game Hens, Broiled
Halved Cornish game hens broiled until cooked through, then brushed with a spiced apple cider and jelly glaze. Five-spice powder, cayenne, and apple jelly create a sweet and slightly spicy coating that caramelizes under the broiler in minutes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Spray broiler rack with nonstick spray and preheat broiler.
- 2
Broil hens skin side down, 7 inches from heat.
- 3
Turn hens and broil until cooked through.
- 4
While hens cook, combine cider, jelly, five-spice powder, salt, and cayenne in small saucepan.
- 5
Bring glaze to a simmer and cook until thick and syrupy.
- 6
Set glaze aside and keep warm.
- 7
Carefully remove skin from each hen.
- 8
Brush about half of glaze over hens.
- 9
Broil until bubbly.
- 10
Place hens on serving platter and drizzle with remaining glaze.
Tips
Keep glaze warm while finishing hens to maintain syrupy consistency.
Position broiler rack 7 inches from heat for even cooking without burning skin.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers covered up to 2 days.
Prepare glaze up to 1 day ahead and refrigerate; reheat gently before using.
Serve hot on a platter drizzled with remaining glaze. Pairs well with roasted vegetables or rice.
Common Mistakes
Do not skip removing skin before final glaze and broil step to avoid tough, burnt skin.
Do not broil glaze longer than 1-2 minutes to avoid caramelizing too darkly.
Substitutions
homemade_alternative