Cornish Hens The Easy Way

Name: Cornish Hens The Easy Way
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 85 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 whole Cornish hens (about 1-1.5 kg/2.5-3.5 lbs each); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; 1 whole lemon (sliced)

85 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Delight in these succulent, easy-to-make Cornish hens that are perfect for any special occasion or a comforting dinner at home.

Prep

15 min

Cook

60 min

Total

85 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Cornish hens are a delightful choice for a special dinner or a festive occasion. Their small size and tender meat make them an elegant yet approachable dish. This recipe is crafted for those who want to enjoy succulent, well-seasoned hens without the hassle. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and focus on natural flavours. By using a blend of herbs and a hint of citrus, these Cornish hens are transformed into a mouth-watering meal. Perfect for cooks of any skill level, this dish is a fantastic choice for an impressive yet straightforward dinner.

Instructions

Prepare the oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Pro tip: Ensure the oven is fully preheated before placing the hens inside.

Season the hens

Pat the Cornish hens dry with paper towels. Rub them inside and out with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.

Pro tip: Rubbing the hens with oil helps the skin crisp up.

Stuff the hens

Place lemon slices inside each hen cavity for extra flavour.

Pro tip: Lemon adds a refreshing citrus note to the dish.

Arrange in roasting pan

Place the hens breast-side up in a large roasting pan.

Pro tip: Use a pan with sides to catch any drippings.

Roast the hens

Roast in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Pro tip: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.

Rest the hens

Remove from the oven and let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the hens are perfectly cooked.
Let the hens rest to retain their juices before serving.
For extra flavour, marinate the hens overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you cook Cornish hens the easy way?

The easy way to cook Cornish hens is to season them with herbs and lemon, then roast in the oven for about 60 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

How long do cooked Cornish hens last in the fridge?

Cooked Cornish hens can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

What temperature should Cornish hens be cooked to?

Cornish hens should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can you make Cornish hens ahead of time?

Yes, Cornish hens can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

What can I serve with Cornish hens?

Serve Cornish hens with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Cornish hens with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Pair with a light white wine or sparkling cider to enhance the flavours. These hens can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven before serving. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition per serving

650

Calories

50g

Protein

45g

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