Microwave Cranberry-Apple Glazed Cornish Game Hen for One

I can still picture it: a blustery autumn evening, the kind that begs for comfort. My tiny apartment kitchen, steam fogging the windowpane, and the aroma of cinnamon and cranberries mingling in the air. I was a fledgling cook, intimidated by the thought of roasting a whole chicken, but desperate for a satisfying meal. That’s when I discovered the magic of the Cornish game hen – perfectly portioned and surprisingly easy to prepare, even in a microwave. This recipe, a twist on that initial inspiration, brings those cozy memories flooding back.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-12 minutes
• Total Time: 23-27 minutes
• Servings: 1
• Yield: 1 Cornish Game Hen
• Dietary Type: Omnivore

Ingredients

• 1 Cornish hen, 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 lbs, defrosted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1 small apple, cut into 1/2 in ch pieces (such as Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji)
• 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce (canned or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon cognac or 1 teaspoon brandy
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Equipment Needed

• Microwave-safe roasting rack
• Small bowl
• Heavy string or kitchen twine
• Microwave oven

Instructions

1. Begin by washing the defrosted Cornish hen thoroughly under cold running water. Pat the hen completely dry with paper towels, inside and out.

2. Sprinkle the inside cavity of the hen with salt and pepper, ensuring even distribution.

3. In a separate small bowl, toss the apple pieces with the packed brown sugar. This will help the apples caramelize slightly during cooking and impart a sweet, warm flavor to the hen.

4. Carefully place the apple pieces inside the cavity of the Cornish hen. Pack them in gently but firmly so they remain in place during cooking.

5. Tie the drumsticks of the hen together with heavy string or kitchen twine. This helps the hen cook more evenly and maintains its shape during microwaving. A simple overhand knot, snug but not too tight, will suffice.

6. Place the hen, breast side down, on a microwave-safe roasting rack. This allows excess fat to drain away during cooking, resulting in a crispier skin (as much as possible in a microwave!) and healthier dish.

7. In a small bowl, stir together the cranberry sauce, cognac (or brandy), and cinnamon. Ensure the ingredients are well combined to create a smooth and flavorful glaze. The alcohol adds a subtle depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the cranberries.

8. Baste the hen with half of the cranberry glaze, ensuring it is evenly coated. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.

9. Microwave the hen on High for 8 to 12 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the wattage of your microwave and the size of the hen. To ensure even cooking, rotate the hen by 1/2 turn every 2 to 3 minutes. Check for doneness by piercing the thickest part of the thigh with a fork. The juices should run clear, and the meat near the bone should no longer be pink.

10. After half of the cooking time (4-6 minutes), carefully turn the hen breast side up and baste it with the remaining cranberry glaze. This will give the breast a beautiful, glossy finish and enhance its flavor.

11. Continue microwaving until the hen is fully cooked, as indicated by clear juices and no pinkness near the bone. Let the hen rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Doneness is key: Since microwave cooking times can vary, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the hen reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
• Prevent drying: While microwaves don’t brown food the same way ovens do, you can help prevent the hen from drying out by covering it loosely with microwave-safe plastic wrap during the first half of the cooking time. Vent the wrap to allow steam to escape.
• Enhance flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, add a small pat of butter under the skin of the breast before cooking. This will help keep the breast moist and add richness.
• Consider adding a small sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme to the cavity along with the apples for an herbaceous note.
• If you don’t have cognac or brandy, you can substitute apple cider vinegar or a tablespoon of apple juice for a similar tang.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Microwave Cranberry-Apple Glazed Cornish Game Hen hot, immediately after cooking. Accompany it with a side of wild rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Leftover hen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power until heated through, or bake in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed. The microwave will yield a softer reheated bird, while the oven will take longer but yield a crispier result. It is not recommended to leave the hen at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the meat can become compromised.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	595.7 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	75 g	13%
Total Fat	8.4 g	12%
Saturated Fat	2.1 g	10%
Cholesterol	217.5 mg	72%
Sodium	790.8 mg	32%
Total Carbohydrate	82.6 g	27%
Dietary Fiber	4.3 g	17%
Sugars	76.8 g	N/A
Protein	48.5 g	97%

Variations & Substitutions

• Honey-Soy Glaze: For an Asian-inspired twist, substitute half a small onion, quartered, for the apple and brown sugar in the cavity. Substitute 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard, and 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger for the glaze ingredients. Microwave glaze at High 30 to 45 seconds, or until heated, stirring to dissolve honey. Continue as directed.
• Citrus Herb Hen: Replace the apple with orange or lemon slices and add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the cavity.
• Spicy Hen: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry glaze for a touch of heat.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure that the cranberry sauce and any other accompaniments are also gluten-free if needed.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen cranberry sauce?
A: Yes, but thaw the cranberry sauce completely before using it to make the glaze. Microwaving it for a short burst can help speed up the process.

Q: Is it safe to cook a whole hen in the microwave?
A: Yes, as long as you ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Use a meat thermometer to verify.

Q: Can I prepare the hen ahead of time?
A: You can stuff the hen with the apple mixture and tie the legs in advance, but it’s best to baste it with the glaze just before cooking to prevent the skin from becoming soggy.

Q: What if my microwave doesn’t have a rotating turntable?
A: If your microwave doesn’t rotate automatically, manually rotate the hen by 1/4 turn every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken breast instead of a Cornish hen?
A: While the flavor profile would be similar, cooking times will vary considerably. It’s best to stick with the Cornish hen for this recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Microwave Cranberry-Apple Glazed Cornish Game Hen is a testament to the fact that delicious and satisfying meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s a perfect way to indulge in a flavorful, comforting dish, especially when you’re cooking for one. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the ease and delight of microwave cooking. I’d love to hear about your experience and any personal touches you add. Perhaps pair it with a crisp Riesling or a comforting cup of herbal tea for the ultimate cozy night in. Happy cooking!