Chef John’s Calabrian Chicken

Chef John’s Calabrian Chicken features spicy, flavorful Cornish game hens marinated in a rich blend of Calabrian chili sauce, fresh herbs, orange juice, and white wine vinegar. Grilled to perfection, these hens are tender, juicy, and full of mouth-watering flavor, making them the perfect main course for a special dinner or a flavorful weeknight meal. The Calabrian chili paste adds just the right amount of heat to complement the tender chicken, making this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Quick Benefits

Chef John’s Calabrian Chicken is a delicious and healthy option for those who enjoy bold flavors. The chicken is packed with protein, while the marinade uses fresh ingredients like rosemary, orange zest, and garlic to enhance the flavor. The Calabrian chili sauce adds a spicy kick, and grilling helps retain the moisture and tenderness of the meat. It’s an easy, impressive dish to make that is both filling and flavorful.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s a look at the ingredients needed for this mouthwatering dish:

• 2 Cornish game hens: These small birds are perfect for grilling, providing a juicy and tender texture.
• 1 cup white wine vinegar: Adds a tangy depth to the marinade.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Helps blend the marinade and adds richness.
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves: Imparts a fragrant, herbaceous flavor.
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice: Brings a citrusy sweetness to the marinade.
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled: Adds depth and aroma.
• 1 large egg: Helps emulsify the marinade and gives it a creamy consistency.
• 1 tablespoon Calabrian hot chili sauce: The key ingredient for the spicy kick (add more to taste).
• 2 teaspoons grated orange zest: Provides a fragrant citrus note.
• 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• 1 anchovy fillet: Adds a savory umami flavor to the marinade.
• Salt to taste: For seasoning the game hens before grilling.

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the game hens: Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, cut the backbone out of the game hens. Then, slice through the cartilage of the breastbone. Flip the birds breast-side up, flatten slightly with your hands, and twist the wing tips underneath. Repeat with the second bird.
2. Make the marinade: In a blender, combine white wine vinegar, vegetable oil, rosemary, orange juice, garlic, egg, Calabrian chili sauce, orange zest, kosher salt, and anchovy fillet. Pulse several times and blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Marinate the hens: Place the game hens in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Squeeze out the air, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally 8 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grate.
5. Grill the hens: Remove the game hens from the marinade, reserving the marinade. Pat the birds dry with paper towels and season the breast side with salt. Place the hens breast-side down on the grill, cooking for about 5 minutes until the skin is browned and has grill marks. Rotate the hens 45 degrees and grill for another 5 minutes to create crosshatch marks.
6. Cook on the other side: Flip the hens onto their backs, brush with reserved marinade, and cook for 5 minutes. Continue to brush with marinade every 5 minutes until the hens are golden brown and a meat thermometer reads 160°F (71°C), which should take about 35 more minutes. Flip the hens breast-side down, brush with marinade, and cook with the lid closed for another 5 minutes to allow the marinade to glaze.
7. Rest and serve: Transfer the hens to a platter and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Health Benefits

• Protein: Cornish game hens provide a high amount of lean protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair.
• Vitamins and minerals: The fresh herbs, garlic, and orange juice contribute vitamins such as vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.
• Healthy fats: Olive oil and vegetable oil provide healthy fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
• Antioxidants: The Calabrian chili sauce and fresh rosemary offer antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body.

Serving Suggestions

• On a bed of greens: Serve the grilled hens on a bed of romaine lettuce or mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
• Side dishes: Pair the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, couscous, or grilled potatoes for a complete meal.
• With a dipping sauce: Serve the chicken with extra Calabrian chili paste or a cool, creamy yogurt sauce to balance the heat.

Creative Variations

• Different spices: For a variation, try adding smoked paprika or cumin to the marinade for a smoky flavor.
• Grilled vegetables: Grill some vegetables alongside the hens, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms, to create a complete Mediterranean-style meal.
• Lemon twist: Add lemon zest and juice to the marinade for a citrusy flavor instead of orange.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Leftover grilled game hens can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked game hens by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Pro Tips

• Marinate for longer: For the best flavor, marinate the hens overnight to allow the flavors to really penetrate the meat.
• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
• Grill with the skin side down first: Always grill with the skin side down first to achieve that perfect crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular chicken instead of game hens?
Yes, you can use regular chicken breasts or thighs instead of Cornish game hens, though the cooking times will vary depending on the size and cut of chicken used.

Is the marinade very spicy?
The Calabrian chili sauce adds a spicy kick, but you can adjust the amount to your taste. If you prefer less heat, start with a smaller amount and add more as needed.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes, the marinade can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir or blend again before using it.

Chef John’s Calabrian Chicken is a flavorful, spicy, and aromatic dish that’s sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re serving it for a special dinner or a casual meal, it’s the perfect balance of heat, citrus, and herbs that will leave everyone craving more!

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