Cornish Hen Recipe

If you’re looking to impress your dinner guests with a dish that’s as elegant as it is delicious, look no further than the Cornish hen. These small, tender birds are perfect for individual servings and offer a gourmet dining experience without the fuss. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through a simple yet mouthwatering recipe that will make your Cornish hen the star of the meal.

Why Choose Cornish Hens?

Cornish hens, also known as Cornish game hens, are a type of small chicken that weigh between one and two pounds. Their petite size makes them ideal for single servings, and their tender meat absorbs flavors wonderfully. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a special meal for your family, Cornish hens add a touch of sophistication to any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 Cornish hens
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 lemon, sliced
4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
4 sprigs of fresh thyme
1/4 cup of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup of chicken broth
1/2 cup of white wine (optional)
2 tablespoons of butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cornish Hens

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a crispy skin. Place the hens in a roasting pan.

2. Season and Stuff the Hens

In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the hens, both inside and out. Stuff each hen with a few lemon slices, a sprig of rosemary, and a sprig of thyme.

3. Arrange the Hens in the Pan

Place the remaining lemon slices, rosemary, and thyme around the hens in the roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth and white wine (if using) into the pan. This will help keep the hens moist during cooking and create a flavorful base for your sauce.

4. Roast the Hens

Roast the hens in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the hens with the pan juices every 20 minutes to keep them moist and flavorful.

5. Finish and Serve

Once the hens are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat. Serve each hen with a drizzle of melted butter and some of the pan juices.

Pairing Suggestions

Cornish hens pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes complement the savory flavors of the hens.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts adds color and texture to your plate.
Wild Rice Pilaf: The nutty flavor of wild rice is a perfect match for the succulent hens.
Crisp Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad balances the richness of the dish.

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme enhance the flavor of the hens more than dried herbs.
Don’t Skip the Basting: Regularly basting the hens keeps them juicy and prevents the skin from drying out.
Rest Before Carving: Allowing the hens to rest ensures that the juices are evenly distributed, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.

Final Thoughts

Cooking Cornish hens may seem daunting, but with this simple recipe, you’ll be able to create a gourmet meal with ease. The combination of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs infuses the meat with incredible flavor, while the roasting process ensures a crispy, golden-brown skin. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Cornish hen recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!

Feel free to share your experiences and any variations you try in the comments below. Happy cooking!