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Roasted Cornish Hens

A delightful and elegant dish featuring tender, juicy Cornish hens roasted with aromatic herbs and lemon, perfect for special occasions.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 2 Cornish hens Approximately 6 oz. cooked per hen
  • 2 tbsp olive oil For rubbing on the hens
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced Adds aromatic flavor
  • 2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped Enhances flavor profile
  • 1 piece lemon For juicing and placing in cavities
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter For basting and achieving crispy skin
  • 1 tsp paprika For seasoning
  • 1 tsp kosher salt To season the hens
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper To season the hens

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
  2. Pat the Cornish hens dry with paper towels. Remove any giblets inside and trim excess fat for even cooking.
  3. Rub each hen with olive oil, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, minced garlic, and rosemary, pressing the seasonings into the skin.
  4. Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice over the hens, placing the squeezed lemon halves and a few sprigs of rosemary into the cavities.
  5. Position the hens breast-side up on a roasting rack.
  6. Dot the tops with butter.
Cooking
  1. Roast the hens for 45–55 minutes, basting them occasionally.
  2. Check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serving
  1. Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving.
  2. Serve garnished with fresh herbs or squeezed lemon slices.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C).