Cornish hens are not just adorable additions to the dinner table; they are incredibly versatile and flavorful, offering a delightful alternative to traditional chicken or turkey dishes. With their rich, juicy meat encased in crispy, golden skin, Cornish hens can elevate any meal. In this post, we will delve into five delicious Cornish hen recipes that you absolutely must try. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply want to impress your dinner guests, these recipes will add a touch of elegance to your culinary repertoire.
Crispy Garlic-Herb Cornish Hens
This recipe brings out the best in Cornish hens with a simple yet aromatic herb and garlic rub that ensures a crispy, flavorful exterior while keeping the meat succulent and tender.
- Ingredients:
- 4 Cornish hens
- 3 tablespoons of butter, softened
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Pat the hens dry with paper towels and season inside and out with salt and pepper.
- Generously rub the butter mixture all over the hens.
- Place the hens in a roasting pan and roast for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
💡 Note: For an extra crispy skin, you can broil the hens for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking.
Spiced Moroccan Cornish Hens
Infuse your meal with exotic flavors with this Moroccan-inspired recipe, where Cornish hens are marinated in a blend of warm spices that will transport your taste buds to the bustling markets of Marrakech.
- Ingredients:
- 4 Cornish hens
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro and lemon wedges for garnish
- Instructions:
- Combine the olive oil, spices, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Coat the hens thoroughly with this mixture. Marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roast the hens for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, basting occasionally with the pan juices.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve with lemon wedges.
Stuffed Cornish Hens with Sausage and Mushrooms
Delight in this stuffing recipe where a mixture of sausage, mushrooms, and herbs fills the hens, making for a hearty and festive meal perfect for holidays or special occasions.
- Ingredients for Stuffing:
- 1/2 pound of sausage (choose your preferred type)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
- Salt and pepper
- Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook sausage, onions, and mushrooms until sausage is browned and onions are translucent.
- Mix in breadcrumbs, sage, salt, and pepper. Allow to cool slightly.
- Stuff the hens with this mixture.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the stuffing reaches 165°F (74°C).
🍗 Note: Make sure the stuffing is completely cooled before stuffing the hens to prevent spoilage.
Honey-Glazed Cornish Hens
A golden glaze of honey and spices drips over these Cornish hens, promising a sweet-savory delight that’s both elegant and irresistible.
- Ingredients:
- 4 Cornish hens
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Juice and zest of 1 orange
- Black pepper
- Instructions:
- Mix together honey, soy sauce, mustard, garlic, ginger, orange zest, and juice for the glaze.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season hens with black pepper, then brush with the honey mixture.
- Roast for about 1 hour, basting with the glaze every 15 minutes.
Grilled Lemon-Thyme Cornish Hens
Perfect for outdoor dining, these Cornish hens are marinated with lemon and thyme, grilled to perfection for that summer barbecue flair.
- Ingredients:
- 4 Cornish hens
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: Lemon halves for grilling
- Instructions:
- Marinate the hens in a mixture of lemon zest, juice, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper for at least 4 hours.
- Preheat the grill for indirect cooking.
- Grill the hens over indirect heat for about 45 minutes, basting with the remaining marinade until done.
- Grill lemon halves cut-side down for garnish.
Cornish hens offer a unique canvas for culinary creativity, allowing home cooks to experiment with various flavors and cooking techniques. Whether you prefer your hens with a crispy exterior, stuffed with savory fillings, or glazed with sweet and savory sauces, these recipes provide a delightful introduction to cooking with this versatile poultry. Each preparation method not only enhances the natural flavors of the Cornish hen but also introduces you to different cuisines and flavor profiles, making these dishes perfect for both intimate dinners and grand celebrations.
How do I know when a Cornish hen is fully cooked?
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A Cornish hen is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh, without touching the bone.
Can I prepare Cornish hens in advance?
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Yes, you can marinate Cornish hens ahead of time. They can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance; just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.
What are some sides to serve with Cornish hens?
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You might enjoy serving Cornish hens with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or even rice pilaf to complement the flavors of the hen.
Is it safe to stuff Cornish hens?
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Yes, but ensure the stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s cooked safely. Also, avoid stuffing too far in advance to prevent bacterial growth.
