This cornish hen recipe delivers tender, juicy meat with crispy golden skin that will impress your dinner guests.
After cooking these small chickens dozens of times for family gatherings, I’ve perfected this simple roasting method that works every time.
Cornish game hens make an elegant main dish for special occasions or intimate dinners.
The herb and garlic rub creates amazing flavors while keeping the preparation surprisingly easy.
Each hen serves one person perfectly, making portion control simple for your meal planning.
Essential Ingredients for Roasted Cornish Hens
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need for this flavorful roasted chicken recipe:
- 2 Cornish game hens (1.25-1.5 pounds each, thawed if frozen)
- 1 garlic clove (finely grated for maximum flavor)
- Lemon zest from 1 fresh lemon
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary (finely minced)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (finely minced)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (regular, sweet, or smoked)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 2 teaspoons coarse salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create perfectly roasted Cornish hens:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F for optimal roasting temperature
- Pat the hens completely dry inside the cavity and outside with paper towels
- Mix the herb rub by combining garlic, lemon zest, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and oil in a medium bowl
- Coat the hens thoroughly with the garlic herb mixture on all sides and inside the cavity
- Truss the hens by tucking wings behind and tying drumsticks together with butcher’s twine
- Place on roasting rack in a roasting pan and scrape remaining rub on top
- Roast for 50-60 minutes until breast meat reaches 163-165°F internal temperature
- Rest for 2-3 minutes before carving or serving whole
Pro Tips for Perfect Game Hen Results
These expert techniques will elevate your roasted Cornish hen game:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness without overcooking
- Let hens come to room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking for even roasting
- Add aromatics to the pan like chopped onions, carrots, and celery for extra flavor
- Don’t skip the trussing step as it helps the hens cook evenly
- Save the drippings to make a delicious pan gravy
- Remove twine before serving to avoid any accidents at the dinner table
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Proper storage keeps your leftover poultry safe and delicious:
- Refrigerator storage: Cover and store for up to 4 days
- Freezer storage: Wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months
- Thawing method: Move from freezer to refrigerator 24 hours before use
- Reheating instructions: Place in pan with 1/2 cup water, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes
- Keep warm option: Hold in covered pan at under 200°F for up to 30 minutes
Flavor Variations and Seasoning Ideas
Customize your small chicken recipe with these tasty alternatives:
- Mediterranean style: Add oregano, basil, and sun-dried tomatoes
- BBQ version: Use your favorite dry rub seasoning blend
- Cajun preparation: Apply spicy Cajun seasoning for heat lovers
- Asian-inspired: Try ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil marinade
- Herb butter: Mix softened butter with fresh herbs and slide under skin
- Citrus twist: Use orange or lime zest instead of lemon
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Complete your elegant dinner with these perfect pairings:
- Roasted vegetables: Try roasted red potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or carrots
- Rice dishes: Serve with wild rice pilaf or herb rice
- Green vegetables: Green beans almondine or roasted asparagus work beautifully
- Salads: A simple mixed green salad balances the rich flavors
- Bread options: Crusty dinner rolls or garlic bread complement the meal
- Wine pairings: Choose white wines like Chardonnay or light reds like Pinot Noir
Why This Recipe Works Every Time
My experience cooking these holiday chickens has taught me what makes the difference between good and great results:
- High roasting temperature creates crispy skin while keeping the meat moist and tender
- Herb and garlic rub penetrates the meat during cooking for layered flavor throughout
- Individual portion control makes serving elegant and eliminates carving confusion
- Proper internal temperature of 163-165°F ensures food safety while maintaining juiciness
- Simple ingredient list uses common herbs and spices most home cooks already have
- Foolproof method works for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs
- Guest-tested results from countless dinner parties where people always request the recipe
- No special shopping required since ingredients are kitchen staples
Easy Cornish Hen Recipe
This cornish hen recipe delivers tender, juicy meat with crispy golden skin that will impress your dinner guests. The herb and garlic rub creates amazing flavors while keeping the preparation surprisingly easy. Each hen serves one person perfectly, making portion control simple for your meal planning.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F for optimal roasting temperature.
- Pat the hens completely dry inside the cavity and outside with paper towels. Set aside.
- In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the garlic, lemon zest, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and oil until well combined.
- Evenly divide the garlic and herb rub between the hens and coat them thoroughly on all sides and inside the cavity.
- Truss the hens by tucking the wings behind and tying the drumsticks together with butcher’s twine.
- Transfer the hens to a roasting pan on a rack. Using a spatula, scrape all remaining herb and garlic oil rub onto the top of the hens.
- Bake in the oven on a lower rack for 50-60 minutes or until the thickest part of the breast reads 163° to 165°F on a meat thermometer.
- Remove the game hens from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Cut the hens in half along the spine, or serve them whole with optional garnishes of lemons, fresh rosemary, and thyme. Remember to remove the butcher’s twine before serving.
Notes
Storage: Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Freeze well-covered for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Place in pan with 1/2 cup water, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Pro Tips: Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the roasting pan for extra aromatics. Let hens come to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking for even results.