Grilled Cornish Game Hens with Mustard Sauce Recipe
This recipe features tender and flavorful grilled Cornish game hens, marinated with a zesty mustard sauce infused with honey, spices, and white wine. Perfectly grilled or broiled to a crispy, juicy finish, these game hens make a delightful main dish for any weeknight dinner or special occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 3
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
GAME HENS:
- Three 1½-pound Cornish Game Hens
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
MUSTARD SAUCE:
- ¼ cup whole grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Prepare the Hens: Remove and discard giblets and necks from the Cornish game hens. Rinse each hen thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Remove the skin carefully and trim off any excess fat, discarding these parts. Split each hen in half lengthwise. Season hen halves evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then set aside to let the flavors settle.
- Prepare the Sauce and Cook: In a small bowl, whisk together whole grain mustard, dry white wine, honey, freshly ground black pepper, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves until well combined. Preheat your grill or oven broiler to medium-high heat. Lightly coat a grill rack or broiler pan rack with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the hen halves, meat-side up, on the rack. Grill or broil for 15 minutes on each side, basting occasionally with the prepared mustard sauce to keep the meat moist and flavorful. Cook until the juices run clear and the hens reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring they are fully cooked and juicy.
Notes
- Removing the skin helps reduce fat and makes the seasoning penetrate better.
- Basting with the mustard sauce during cooking enhances flavor and keeps the hens moist.
- If grilling outdoors, use medium-high heat and monitor closely to avoid over-charring.
- Allow the hens to rest a few minutes after cooking for juices to redistribute.
- The ground cinnamon and cloves add a subtle warm spice that complements the honey and mustard beautifully.
