Grilled Cornish Game Hens with Apricot-Chipotle Glaze

Yield: Makes 8 servings

Ingredients

• 4  Cornish game hens, split
• 1  cup  apple cider
• 2  tablespoons  kosher salt
• 1  teaspoon  black peppercorns
• Apricot-Chipotle Glaze

Preparation

Rinse game hens with cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and set aside.

Combine cider, salt, and peppercorns in a large bowl or heavy-duty zip-top freezer bag. Add game hens, and marinate in refrigerator at least 4 hours.

Remove hens from marinade. Place on preheated grill at medium-low heat. Grill 30 to 35 minutes or until a thermometer inserted in the meaty part of the thigh registers 165°. During the last 10 minutes of grilling, reduce heat to low; brush hens with half of the Apricot-Chipotle Glaze. Brush with remaining glaze before serving.

Note: Hens can be baked in an oven at 350° for 20 to 25 minutes or until a thermometer inserted in the meaty part of the thigh registers 165°.