This roasted Cornish hen recipe or “game hens” is simple to prepare, delicious, and as easy as it is elegant.
What You’ll Need for This Cornish Hen Recipe
Cornish Hen: Cornish hens (aka game hens) are a breed of chickens that weigh about 1 ½ to 2 pounds as opposed to a regular chicken that weighs 4 or more pounds. Cornish hens are fully matured at a smaller weight, and the meat is super tender. You can most often find them at the grocery store in the freezer near the frozen turkeys. Rub: A simple mixture of olive oil and herbs flavor the skin. Rosemary, lemon zest, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper create the perfect savory taste. Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, and onions are added to the pan. Arrange the veggies around the hens, and once cooked, remove the hens and stir the veggies into all of the delicious juices for extra flavor!
Variations
Try tucking sprigs of fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano amongst the veggies, or rub the outside of the hen with your favorite seasoning mix for a super savory skin! Chunks of zucchini, squash, brussels sprouts, or bell peppers can be added to the pan with the other veggies.
How to Cook Cornish Hens
Tips for Perfect Cornish Hen
For best results, rub some salt into the cavity of the hens to draw more moisture out while it roasts; this also helps season the meat a little more. A few sprigs of fresh herbs or a slice of lemon can be added to the cavity as well. If you save bacon grease, this is a perfect way to substitute bacon grease for the olive oil, adding another subtle layer of flavor! The most important tip is to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a juicy 165°F. I remove the hens from the oven at 160°F as the temperature will continue to rise as they rest.
Elegant Sides to Pair with Cornish Hens
Easy Rice Pilaf Easy Arugula Salad Homemade Garlic Bread Easy Artisan Bread Recipe Caesar Salad
Did your family love this Roasted Cornish Hen recipe? Leave a comment and a rating below. © SpendWithPennies.com. Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is both encouraged and appreciated. Copying and/or pasting full recipes to any social media is strictly prohibited. Please view my photo use policy here.
