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Savory Cornish Hen

Impress your guests with this delicious and easy-to-make Savory Cornish Hen, featuring succulent meat, crispy skin, and a blend of flavorful herbs, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pieces Cornish hens (approximately 1–1.5 lbs each) Choose fresh, plump hens for best flavor.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Used for rubbing the hens and for the vegetable side.
  • 1 tsp salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp paprika For color and flavor.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Boosts flavor profile.
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder Enhances overall taste.
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme Adds a savory herb flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary Pairs well with chicken.
  • 1 cup wild rice (mushrooms, or dried fruits for stuffing) Optional stuffing.
  • 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar For glazing the hens.
For the Vegetables (Optional Side)
  • 1 cup baby carrots Adds color and crunch.
  • 1 cup baby potatoes (halved) Hearty and complements hens.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Used for tossing vegetables.
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
  3. Rub the hens all over with olive oil, covering each nook and cranny.
  4. If stuffing, prepare wild rice according to package instructions and mix with sautéed mushrooms or dried fruits.
  5. Fill the cavity of each hen with the mixture if using.
Cooking
  1. Place the prepared hens in a roasting pan, spaced evenly.
  2. Toss the halved baby potatoes and baby carrots in olive oil, salt, and pepper; surround the hens with these vegetables.
  3. Roast the hens for about 1 hour or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  4. Baste the hens halfway through for added moisture.
  5. In the last 10 minutes, brush the tops with honey or brown sugar for a glaze.
Serving
  1. Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
  2. Serve alongside the roasted vegetables.

Notes

Perfect for special occasions or intimate dinners. Can serve with a green salad or crusty bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.