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If you’re looking to elevate your next dinner party or holiday gathering, these Pomegranate BBQ Basted Cornish Hens are a showstopper.

Tender, juicy hens are basted with a tangy, slightly sweet, and smoky pomegranate BBQ glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The result? A dish that looks as impressive as it tastes. For more inspiration, be sure to check out my list of Southern Thanksgiving Recipes.

Cornish hens are perfect for entertaining because each guest gets their own personal portion, and they cook much faster than a traditional whole chicken or turkey. Paired with the rich, jewel-toned pomegranate glaze, this recipe is both festive and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This recipe combines the smoky comfort of BBQ with the bright, tart sweetness of pomegranate, creating a balance of flavors that feels both rustic and gourmet. It’s the kind of dish that makes an ordinary dinner feel like a special occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, these Pomegranate BBQ Basted Cornish Hens will quickly become a favorite centerpiece at your table.

Ingredients

For the Cornish Hens:

• 2 Cornish hens (about 1–1.5 pounds each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder

For the Pomegranate BBQ Glaze:

• 1 cup pomegranate juice
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup pomegranate arils (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Pomegranate BBQ Basted Cornish Hens

Instructions

Prepare the Hens

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the Cornish hens dry with paper towels, then rub them all over with olive oil.
3. Season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Place the hens on a wire rack set over a baking sheet for even cooking.

Make the Pomegranate BBQ Glaze

1. In a medium saucepan, combine pomegranate juice, ketchup, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Roast and Baste

1. Roast the hens for 25 minutes.
2. Remove from the oven and brush generously with the pomegranate BBQ glaze.
3. Return to the oven and roast another 20–25 minutes, basting every 10 minutes, until the hens are golden brown, caramelized, and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serve

1. Let the hens rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh pomegranate arils and parsley for a pop of color.
3. Serve with roasted vegetables, wild rice, or a crisp salad.

Tips for Success

• Double the glaze: It’s so delicious, you may want extra for drizzling over the hens or sides.
• Grill option: These hens can also be grilled over indirect heat for a smoky outdoor twist.
• Festive touch: Garnish with orange slices and rosemary sprigs for a holiday-worthy presentation.

Check out these other delicious meat recipes

• Ina Garten's Perfectly Roasted Turkey
• Trisha Yearwood's Honey Mustard Glazed Ham
• Coca-Cola Baked Ham