Create a memorable dining experience with these Romantic Apricot Cornish Game Hens made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Perfect for a cozy date night, this recipe features tender whole hens glazed with a luscious blend of apricot preserves, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and garlic, creating a sweet-savory symphony of flavors. Fresh thyme sprigs infuse an herbaceous aroma, while a broth base keeps the meat irresistibly juicy. With just 15 minutes of prep time and optional broiling for a crisp finish, this elegant dish proves that gourmet doesnβt have to be complicated. Serve these succulent hens alongside roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a romantic meal to remember.
Rinse the Cornish game hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Rub the hens all over with olive oil, then season them inside and out with salt and black pepper.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the apricot preserves, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic to create the glaze.
Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of your slow cooker.
Place the seasoned hens into the slow cooker, breast-side up. Tuck a sprig or two of thyme inside each bird's cavity.
Pour the apricot glaze over the top of the hens, making sure they are evenly coated.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 4 hours, or until the hens reach an internal temperature of 165Β°F (74Β°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.
Optional: For a crispy skin, carefully remove the cooked hens from the slow cooker and place them on a baking sheet. Broil them in the oven on HIGH for 3-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp.
Serve the hens hot with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or buttery mashed potatoes.
Calories |
2566 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 127.1 g | 163% | |
| Saturated Fat | 32.2 g | 161% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 800 mg | 267% | |
| Sodium | 4860 mg | 211% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 93.8 g | 34% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 88.4 g | ||
| Protein | 235.4 g | 471% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.5 mcg | 12% | |
| Calcium | 200 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 13.7 mg | 76% | |
| Potassium | 2473 mg | 53% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.