Why Make This Cornish Hens Recipe
Cornish hens make for an impressive meal that looks as lovely as it tastes. Perfect for special occasions, holiday dinners, or even a cozy weeknight feast, these pint-sized birds offer a delightful twist on traditional roasted chicken. Their tender meat absorbs flavors beautifully, and the crispy skin gives every bite a mouthwatering crunch. This recipe not only highlights the fantastic flavors of garlic, rosemary, and thyme but is also easy enough for cooks of all skill levels.
How to Make Cornish Hens Recipe
Making Cornish hens is simpler than you might think! With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, you can create a stunning and delicious centerpiece for any meal. This recipe uses just a handful of ingredients that you probably have on hand. The key is to ensure your hens are cooked to juicy perfection and well-seasoned throughout, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way!
Ingredients:
- 6 Rock Cornish Hens, thawed (~1.4 lb each) *See note
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F.
- Remove the Cornish hens from their wrapping, take out any gizzards (that’s the inside stuff), and pat them dry inside and out with paper towels.
- Place a cooling rack on a baking pan to allow the heat to circulate around the birds.
- Arrange the hens breast-side up on the cooling rack.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme to create a soft, spreadable herbed butter.
- With care, gently separate the skin from the breast meat of each bird. Spread about two tablespoons of the herbed butter mixture under the skin of each hen. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; you’re going to cover it back up!
- Smooth the skin back down over the butter.
- Rub the exterior of the hens with olive oil and then sprinkle the Kosher salt and pepper generously over them.
- Roast in the preheated oven at 450°F for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, reduce the heat to 350°F.
- Continue roasting for about 40 more minutes or until the thickest part of the meat reaches 165°F.
- Baste the hens occasionally (every 25-30 minutes) with the pan juices to keep them moist.
- Let them stand for 10 minutes before serving to lock in the flavors.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 Cornish hen, approximately 1.4 lbs):
- Calories: 580
- Total Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
- Sodium: 640mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 0g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 55g
How to Serve Cornish Hens Recipe
Serve your beautifully roasted Cornish hens on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon slices for a pop of color. Pair them with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or wild rice for a hearty meal. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the savory flavors of the hens wonderfully. They are perfect for special occasions and are sure to wow your guests!
How to Store Cornish Hens Recipe
Leftover Cornish hens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just ensure they’re cooled before storing, and make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cornish Hens Recipe
- Patience is key: Make sure to let the hens rest after roasting. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy meat.
- Use thermometers: Invest in a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and ensure the hens are cooked through.
- Customize flavors: Feel free to play with different herbs and spices. Try adding lemon zest or using different fresh herbs like sage or oregano for a unique twist.
Delicious Variations
- Stuffed Cornish Hens: Add a savory stuffing made of your choice, such as quinoa or wild rice mixed with herbs, for added flavor.
- BBQ Cornish Hens: Rub the hens with your favorite barbecue sauce for a sweet and spicy flavor profile, then roast as directed.
- Spicy Cornish Hens: For some kick, incorporate cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into your herbed butter mix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen Cornish hens?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. This usually takes 24 hours in the fridge.
How can I tell when the Cornish hens are done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the meat.
Can I cook Cornish hens on the grill?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a lovely smoky flavor. Just be sure to manage the heat carefully to avoid burning.
Conclusion
This Cornish Hens recipe is a delightful way to prepare a festive and flavorful meal. With its juicy meat, crispy skin, and aromatic herbed butter, it’s bound to impress anyone at your table. Whether for a special celebration or a comforting weeknight dinner, don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try. You’ll love the smiles around your dinner table! If you do make it, I invite you to share your experiences or any variations you’ve tried—happy cooking!
Cornish Hens
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 450°F.
- Remove the Cornish hens from their wrapping, take out any gizzards, and pat them dry inside and out with paper towels.
- Place a cooling rack on a baking pan to allow the heat to circulate around the birds.
- Arrange the hens breast-side up on the cooling rack.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme to create a soft, spreadable herbed butter.
- Gently separate the skin from the breast meat of each bird and spread about two tablespoons of the herbed butter mixture under the skin of each hen.
- Smooth the skin back down over the butter.
- Rub the exterior of the hens with olive oil and sprinkle the Kosher salt and pepper generously over them.
- Roast in the preheated oven at 450°F for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, reduce the heat to 350°F.
- Continue roasting for about 40 more minutes or until the thickest part of the meat reaches 165°F.
- Baste the hens occasionally (every 25-30 minutes) with the pan juices to keep them moist.
- Let them stand for 10 minutes before serving to lock in the flavors.