Roasted Cornish Hens

There’s something truly magical about gathering friends and family around a beautifully roasted meal, and Roasted Cornish Hens definitely fits the bill. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a crisp fall evening, and the aroma of the herbs and garlic filled my kitchen, wrapping around us like a warm hug. The hens emerged golden and crispy from the oven, and my guests couldn’t resist the temptation to dig in. This recipe is not just about cooking; it’s about creating memories. The anticipation builds as you prepare the hens, stuffing them with aromatic vegetables, and then watching them roast to perfection. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, Roasted Cornish Hens promises to impress and satisfy.

Shopping List for Roasted Cornish Hens

When it comes to the ingredients for Roasted Cornish Hens, simplicity is key. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of flavor that meld perfectly as they roast together. The star of the show, of course, is the Cornish hens, which are juicy and tender. Complementing them are fresh onions, aromatic rosemary, and zesty lemon that elevate the overall taste of the dish. Let’s explore these key players and what they bring to the table.

• Cornish hens – Tender and flavorful, these small birds are juicy and perfect for individual servings.
• Yellow onions – Adds sweetness and depth when roasted, balancing the richness of the hens.
• Rosemary – This fragrant herb infuses the dish with earthy, aromatic notes.
• Garlic – A must-have for its robust flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
• Lemon – Brightens the flavor profile and adds a lovely acidity.
• Olive oil – Helps achieve that golden, crispy skin while keeping the meat moist.
• Garlic powder – For an extra punch of garlic goodness.
• Dried oregano – Adds a warm, slightly bitter flavor that complements the hens beautifully.
• Dried basil – Contributes a sweet, aromatic flavor to the rub.
• Smoked paprika – Introduces a subtle smokiness that rounds out the flavor.
• Chili powder – Optional for those who enjoy a little kick.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• Ground black pepper – Adds a bit of spice and depth.

How to Prepare Roasted Cornish Hens

Preparing Roasted Cornish Hens is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with enticing aromas. It’s a simple yet rewarding task that showcases the beauty of roasting. Follow these steps for a delicious dish that will wow your guests.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F/180°C. This ensures your hens will cook evenly and develop that sought-after crispy skin.
2. In a small bowl, combine all of the dry ingredients: garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix them well and set aside.
3. Grab your thawed Cornish hens and pat them dry with kitchen towels. This step is crucial for getting that crispy skin. You’ll want to ensure they have no moisture on the surface.
4. Stuff each hen’s cavity generously with pieces of onion, garlic, lemon, and a sprig of rosemary. This infusion of flavors will be absorbed as they roast.
5. Truss the legs using butcher twine, if you’d like. This helps maintain the shape of the birds and keeps those aromatics snug inside.
6. Tuck the wings behind the birds for a neat presentation. This also helps them cook evenly.
7. Drizzle half of the olive oil over each hen, ensuring they’re well-coated. This will create a beautiful, golden crust.
8. Now, generously season the hens with the dry rub you prepared earlier. Make sure to get it all over, even under the skin for maximum flavor.
9. Place the remaining onion, garlic cloves, lemon, and rosemary in a 9×13-inch roasting dish. This aromatic base will keep the hens elevated while adding depth to the dish.
10. Place the seasoned Cornish hens on top of the aromatics in the roasting dish. Drizzle the rest of the olive oil over them.
11. Add a splash of water or chicken stock to the pan. This will help keep everything moist and create a delicious sauce.
12. Roast uncovered in the oven for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 180°F/83°C. You want that skin to be golden and crispy.
13. Once cooked, carefully remove the hens to a plate, and tent with foil to rest. This step helps keep them juicy.
14. Pour the cooking juices into a small saucepan and reduce for about 5 minutes to create a sauce. Drizzle this over the hens when serving.
15. Finally, cut each Cornish hen in half and serve with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted/steamed vegetables. Drizzle some of that delicious sauce on top, and enjoy!

Make It Your Own

When it comes to Roasted Cornish Hens, you can truly customize the dish to your liking. Here are some ideas to make it your own!

• Storage: After cooking, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked hens for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pairing: Consider serving with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Experiment with flavors: Change up the herbs and spices. Try adding thyme or sage for a different twist.
• Vegetable additions: Toss potatoes and carrots in the roasting dish with the aromatics for a complete meal.
• Gravy tips: If your sauce doesn’t thicken easily, mix one teaspoon of cornstarch with one teaspoon of water and add it to the sauce over medium heat.
• Presentation: Serve the hens on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs for an impressive display.

Serving Ideas for Roasted Cornish Hens

Serving Roasted Cornish Hens can be as creative as you’d like. Here are some ideas that elevate the dining experience:

• Holiday Dinners: These hens are perfect for special occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas, adding elegance to your table.
• Family Gatherings: For family meals, serve the hens alongside traditional sides like stuffing, green beans, and cranberry sauce.
• Picnic-Style: Roast the hens and pack them for a picnic. They’re easy to transport and delicious cold or at room temperature.
• Casual Dinners: Pair with simple sides like roasted vegetables or a light salad for an easy weeknight meal.
• Prepare in Advance: Roast the hens and store them covered in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for a quick dinner option.
• Pairing with Sauces: Serve with a range of dipping sauces or gravies, allowing guests to personalize their meals.
• Garnish Ideas: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add a pop of color and freshness to your presentation.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Roasted Cornish Hens are a remarkable dish that brings elegance and flavor to your table. Their tender meat and aromatic stuffing create a delightful experience for anyone lucky enough to enjoy them. I encourage you to try making this recipe for your next special occasion or family dinner. You won’t regret it, and your guests will be coming back for seconds!

Roasted Cornish Hens

The ultimate comfort food, Roasted Cornish Hens are tender, juicy, and infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this dish will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Make this flavorful meal tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 2 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Casserole dish

Ingredients

  

• 2 whole Cornish hens
• 2 pieces yellow onions cut into 8 pieces
• 6 sprigs rosemary
• 6 cloves garlic sliced in halves
• 1 whole lemon cut into 8 pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F/180°C. This ensures your hens will cook evenly and develop that sought-after crispy skin.
• In a small bowl, combine all of the dry ingredients: garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix them well and set aside.
• Grab your thawed Cornish hens and pat them dry with kitchen towels. This step is crucial for getting that crispy skin. You'll want to ensure they have no moisture on the surface.
• Stuff each hen's cavity generously with pieces of onion, garlic, lemon, and a sprig of rosemary. This infusion of flavors will be absorbed as they roast.
• Truss the legs using butcher twine, if you'd like. This helps maintain the shape of the birds and keeps those aromatics snug inside.
• Tuck the wings behind the birds for a neat presentation. This also helps them cook evenly.
• Drizzle half of the olive oil over each hen, ensuring they’re well-coated. This will create a beautiful, golden crust.
• Now, generously season the hens with the dry rub you prepared earlier. Make sure to get it all over, even under the skin for maximum flavor.
• Place the remaining onion, garlic cloves, lemon, and rosemary in a 9×13-inch roasting dish. This aromatic base will keep the hens elevated while adding depth to the dish.
• Place the seasoned Cornish hens on top of the aromatics in the roasting dish. Drizzle the rest of the olive oil over them.
• Add a splash of water or chicken stock to the pan. This will help keep everything moist and create a delicious sauce.
• Roast uncovered in the oven for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 180°F/83°C. You want that skin to be golden and crispy.
• Once cooked, carefully remove the hens to a plate, and tent with foil to rest. This step helps keep them juicy.
• Pour the cooking juices into a small saucepan and reduce for about 5 minutes to create a sauce. Drizzle this over the hens when serving.
• Finally, cut each Cornish hen in half and serve with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted/steamed vegetables. Drizzle some of that delicious sauce on top, and enjoy!

Notes

• Tip 1: Trussing the legs is optional, but I find it holds the aromatics better and makes a nicer presentation.
• Tip 2: Change things up, and add potatoes and carrots with the aromatics to roast and serve with the hens.
• Tip 3: Take it to the next level by adding softened butter with minced garlic under the breast skin.
• Tip 4: If your Cornish hens are larger, you might need to cook them for a bit longer. Always check the internal temperature (must reach at least 165°F) to make sure the Cornish hens are cooked and safe to eat.
• Tip 5: If the sauce does not thicken easily, thicken with corn starch slurry in a saucepan over medium heat (1 teaspoon of corn starch mixed with 1 teaspoon of liquid, add that to the sauce and whisk to thicken).

Keyword Cornish hens recipe, easy Cornish hens, how to cook Cornish hens, roasted Cornish hens

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.