Grilled Game Hens with Blood Orange and Rosemary

Grilled Game Hens with Blood Orange and Rosemary
  • PREP TIME
    15 mins
  • COOK TIME
    45 mins
  • TOTAL TIME
    3 hrs
  • SERVING
    4 People
  • VIEWS
    27

Elevate your grilling game with these succulent Cornish hens, infused with the vibrant flavors of blood orange and the earthy aroma of rosemary. The sweet-tart citrus perfectly complements the spicy chili, creating a symphony of taste that will tantalize your palate.

Ingridients

Adjust Servings

Nutrition

  • Carbohydrate
    6 g
  • Cholesterol
    151 mg
  • Fiber
    1 g
  • Protein
    26 g
  • Saturated Fat
    7 g
  • Sodium
    233 mg
  • Fat
    28 g
  • Unsaturated Fat
    0 g

Follow The Directions

01

Step

In a large bowl, place the game hens. Drizzle with olive oil and blood orange juice. Sprinkle with chopped rosemary and add the rosemary sprigs. Incorporate the Asian chili garlic sauce, salt, and pepper. (5 minutes)

02

Step

Thoroughly coat the hens with the marinade, ensuring even distribution. Gently loosen the skin over the breasts and spread a small amount of marinade underneath. (5 minutes)

03

Step

Refrigerate the hens breast-side down for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate. (2 hours minimum)

04

Step

Preheat your outdoor grill, preferably charcoal, to medium heat (single layer of coals). Drain the chickens, discarding the marinade. (10 minutes)

05

Step

Place the hens breast-side down on the grill, cover with the lid (vents open), and cook until the breasts are evenly browned. (7-10 minutes)

06

Step

Flip the chickens and cook on their backs with the lid closed (vents open) until the juices run clear when pierced, the hip joints move freely, and the meat is no longer pink inside. Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh to ensure it reaches at least 160°F (70°C). (30-35 minutes)

07

Step

Close the grill vents on the lid halfway. Flip the chickens back onto their breasts, close the lid, and cook for a final sear. (2-3 minutes)

08

Step

Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

For a richer flavor, marinate the hens overnight.
If using a gas grill, preheat to medium heat.
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and blood orange slices for an elegant presentation.

Alyce Lind

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.

RECIPE REVIEWS

Avarage Rating: 4.1/ 5 ( 9 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (8)
  • Michel Wunsch

    These were a huge hit at our backyard barbecue! Everyone raved about them.

  • Lucious Feil

    Next time, I'm going to try marinating them overnight. Thanks for the great recipe!

  • Judge Cole

    This recipe is amazing! The blood orange and rosemary combo is a game-changer.

  • Lonny Daniel

    I had a little trouble keeping the grill temperature consistent, but the end result was still delicious.

  • Elisha Anderson

    The chili garlic sauce adds just the right amount of spice. Perfect!

  • Freddy Kovacek

    I substituted regular oranges and it still turned out great. Will definitely make again!

  • Dane Mcdermott

    My family loved these game hens! So much flavor, and they were incredibly moist.

  • Delilah Stroman

    Instructions were clear and easy to follow, even for a beginner like me.

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