This dish brings together bold flavors with tender chicken and fiery Calabrian chili peppers for a deliciously spicy meal. It's perfect for anyone looking to add a little heat and excitement to their dinner routine.
Start by placing the game hen breast side down on your cutting board. Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, cut along each side of the backbone from top to bottom and remove it. Next, slice through the cartilage of the breastbone, then flip the hen over, flatten it gently with your hands, and tuck the wing tips underneath. Do the same with the other hen.
In a blender, combine white wine vinegar, vegetable oil, rosemary, orange juice, garlic, an egg, Calabrian chili sauce, orange zest, kosher salt, and an anchovy fillet. Pulse a few times, then blend until the marinade is smooth and creamy.
Place the hens in a large resealable bag and pour in the marinade. Squeeze out the air, seal it up, and pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight so all those flavors soak in.
When you’re ready to cook, heat your grill to medium and oil the grates lightly. Take the hens out of the marinade, saving the leftover marinade for basting. Pat the hens dry with paper towels and season the breast sides with a bit of salt.
Start grilling the hens breast side down until you see nice brown grill marks, about 5 minutes. Give them a 45-degree turn and cook for another 5 minutes to get those classic crosshatch marks. Flip the hens onto their backs, brush with some of the reserved marinade, then close the lid and grill for 5 minutes. Keep brushing and grilling in 5-minute intervals until the hens are a deep golden brown and the thickest part of the thigh reaches 160°F on a meat thermometer—this should take around 35 minutes.
Finally, flip the hens breast side down one last time, give them a final brush with marinade, close the lid, and grill for about 5 more minutes to get a nice glaze. Let the hens rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors fully develop.
- Use fresh garlic and high-quality Calabrian chili paste for the best taste.
- Cook the chicken over medium heat to ensure it stays juicy without burning the spices.
This dish packs a bold punch with its spicy Calabrian chili flavors balanced by tender, juicy chicken. It’s easy to prepare and brings a vibrant, zesty twist to your weeknight meals. The combination of heat and savory ingredients makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Serve with a side of creamy polenta or garlic mashed potatoes to balance the spice. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables also complement the dish well, adding freshness and texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the chicken tender and avoid drying it out.
