For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade. If you don't have fresh rosemary, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary. Crush it slightly before adding to release its aroma. Adjust the amount of Calabrian chili sauce to your preferred spice level. A little goes a long way! Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a simple salad to complete the meal.
Chef John's Calabrian Chicken
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PREP TIME25 mins
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COOK TIME1 hrs
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TOTAL TIME5 hrs 30 mins
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SERVING2 People
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VIEWS73
Embark on a culinary journey with Calabrian Chicken, where the fiery Calabrian chili meets succulent game hens. Marinated in a vibrant blend of herbs, citrus, and a touch of anchovy, these hens are grilled to perfection, offering a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Serve over a bed of fresh greens for an unforgettable dining experience.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate14 g
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Cholesterol397 mg
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Fiber1 g
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Protein57 g
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Saturated Fat13 g
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Sodium1779 mg
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Sugar4 g
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Fat46 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepPrepare the Game Hens: Lay a game hen breast-side down on a work surface. Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, remove the backbone by cutting along each side. Slice through the breastbone cartilage. Flip the hen breast-side up, flatten lightly, and tuck the wing tips underneath. Repeat with the remaining hen. (5 minutes)
02
StepCreate the Calabrian 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 to combine, then blend until smooth and creamy. (5 minutes)
03
StepMarinate the Hens: Place the game hens in a resealable bag and pour in the marinade. Remove air, seal, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. (5 minutes)
04
StepPrepare the Grill: Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grate. (5 minutes)
05
StepPrepare for Grilling: Remove the game hens from the marinade, reserving the marinade. Pat the birds dry with paper towels and season the breast sides with salt. (5 minutes)
06
StepGrill the Hens (First Stage): Place the game hens breast-side down on the grill. Cook until grill marks appear, about 5 minutes. Rotate 45 degrees and grill for another 5 minutes to create crosshatch marks. (10 minutes)
07
StepGrill and Glaze (Second Stage): Flip the game hens onto their backs. Brush with reserved marinade and grill with the lid closed for 5 minutes. Repeat brushing and grilling every 5 minutes until the hens are deep golden brown and a meat thermometer inserted into the thigh reads 160°F (71°C), about 35 minutes total. (35 minutes)
08
StepFinal Glaze: Flip the hens breast-side down. Brush with remaining marinade and cook with the lid closed until the marinade has glazed onto the chicken, about 5 minutes. (5 minutes)
09
StepRest and Serve: Transfer the hens to a platter and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. (5 minutes)
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Ezequiel Franey
Mar 9, 2025This Calabrian chicken is now a staple in my house. Thank you for the amazing recipe!
Junior Howe
Jan 21, 2025This recipe is a flavor explosion! The chicken was so moist and the Calabrian chili gave it the perfect kick.
Marion Boscohermiston
Jan 15, 2025I marinated the hens overnight and the flavor was incredible. Highly recommend the extra time.
Aimee Gleason
Dec 28, 2024My family loved this! Even my picky eaters devoured it.
Krista Stoltenberg
Dec 12, 2024Instructions are easy to follow and very detailed. Great recipe overall.
Adrianna Schiller
Nov 19, 2024The crosshatch grill marks make this dish look like it came straight from a restaurant.
Ezekiel Mcdermott
Nov 17, 2024I was a bit intimidated by the anchovy, but it adds an amazing umami depth to the marinade. Don't skip it!
Clementine Lynch
Oct 24, 2024Amazing recipe. I added some extra chili paste and it was great!