Now, let’s talk about a dish that’s small in size but huge in taste. Cornish hens are the perfect solution when you’re craving something a bit fancier than chicken but don’t want to deal with a whole turkey. This recipe will guide you through creating a succulent, flavorful bird that’s sure to impress.
Why This Recipe Works
- The Cornish hen’s small size ensures quick, even cooking, resulting in juicy meat every time.
- A simple yet flavorful herb butter rub adds depth and richness to the bird.
- Roasting at a high temperature crisps the skin to perfection while keeping the inside tender.
- Serving a whole hen per person makes for an elegant presentation that’s surprisingly easy to achieve.
Ingredients
- 2 Cornish hens, about 1.5 lbs each
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Equipment Needed
- Roasting pan
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 425°F. While the oven heats, pat the Cornish hens dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and minced garlic to create your herb butter rub.
Season the Hens
Generously rub the herb butter all over the hens, including under the skin where possible for maximum flavor. Don’t forget to season the cavity with a pinch of salt and pepper, then stuff each hen with a lemon half. This adds a bright, citrusy note to the meat as it cooks.
Roast to Perfection
Place the hens breast-side up in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when measured at the thigh with a meat thermometer. The skin should be golden and crispy.
Rest Before Serving
Once cooked, let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
Tips and Tricks
For an even crispier skin, you can start the hens at a higher temperature (450°F) for the first 10 minutes, then reduce to 425°F for the remainder of the cooking time. If you’re short on fresh herbs, dried herbs can work in a pinch—just use half the amount since they’re more concentrated. Basting the hens halfway through cooking with their own juices can add an extra layer of flavor and moisture.
Recipe Variations
- Try a spicy twist by adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the herb butter.
- For a Mediterranean flair, stuff the hens with olives and feta cheese before roasting.
- Swap the lemon for orange halves and add a touch of honey to the butter for a sweeter profile.
- Create a smoky flavor by adding a bit of liquid smoke to the butter rub.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of Cornish hens? Yes, you can use a whole chicken, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. A general rule is about 20 minutes per pound at 425°F.
How do I know when the hens are done? The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While best served fresh, you can prepare the herb butter and season the hens a few hours in advance. Keep them refrigerated until ready to roast.
Summary
This Cornish hen recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for a special dinner. With a flavorful herb butter rub and crispy skin, it’s sure to be a hit.