Tequila and Lime Game Hens or Chicken
Infuse your dinner table with bold, zesty flavors by preparing Tequila and Lime Game Hens or Chicken, a dazzling dish that highlights the perfect blend of citrusy tang and savory spices. This recipe features succulent Cornish game hens or whole chicken marinated in a tantalizing mix of tequila, fresh lime juice, honey, garlic, and a medley of smoky spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Oven-roasted to golden perfection, the juicy poultry boasts a crisp skin that’s irresistibly seasoned, while frequent basting with the marinade ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. Garnished with fresh cilantro and lime slices, this dish is not only visually stunning but also pairs beautifully with rice, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing side salad. Perfect for special occasions or a standout weeknight meal, this tequila-lime creation will quickly become a family favorite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pieces Cornish game hens or chicken (whole, about 4-5 lbs each)
- 4 tablespoons Olive oil
- 60 milliliters Tequila
- 60 milliliters Fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon Lime zest
- 4 pieces Garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons Honey
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon Chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 2 pieces Limes (sliced, for garnish)
Instructions
Rinse the game hens or chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, tequila, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, honey, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
Place the game hens or chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the poultry, ensuring it is fully coated. Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Remove the hens or chicken from the marinade and place them in a roasting pan. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the marinade for basting (discard the rest).
Roast the game hens or chicken in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, basting every 15 minutes with the reserved marinade, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and lime slices. Serve with your choice of sides, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2777 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 166.4 g | 213% | |
| Saturated Fat | 39.6 g | 198% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 753 mg | 251% | |
| Sodium | 3086 mg | 134% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 52.3 g | 19% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.3 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 36.3 g | ||
| Protein | 221.2 g | 442% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.6 mcg | 13% | |
| Calcium | 216 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 13.9 mg | 77% | |
| Potassium | 2082 mg | 44% | |
*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.
