Cornish Game Hens

***Recipe found in Simple & Delicious magazine, submitted by Kara De La Vega of Santa Rosa, CA***

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

1/2 tsp. sal
1/2 tsp. dill weed
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/4 tsp. paprika
2 Cornish game hens (20-oz each), split lengthwise
1 T. olive oil
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/2 tsp. minced garlic
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup orange juice concentrate
2 T. slivered almonds, toasted
1 T. minced fresh parsley

In a small bowl, combine the first five ingredients; sprinkle over hens. In large skillet, cook hens over medium-high heat in oil until browned on both sides. Transfer to an ungreased 13x9-inch baking dish; set aside and keep warm.

In the same skillet, saute green onions and garlic until tender. Stir in broth and orange juice concentrate; pour over hens. Bake, uncovered, at 350* for 35-40 minutes or until meat is tender and juices run clear. To serve, drizzle with pan juices and sprinkle with almonds and parsley.

This was my first time working with game hens and it was a fun experience!! The kids call them "Cute Chickens" now because they are just so little. The kids also had fun watching me mix the spices tonight so I gave them a little lesson in what everything is called. My son was amazed with the color of the paprika so that was kind of funny! Anyway, the recipe was really good and really general, so I think I'll try this on regular chicken pieces next instead of doing the game hens again. It's very basic in the event that you are looking for something to spice up regular chicken.

Family Chef's Grade: B