Herb-Infused Baked Cornish Game Hens

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour
🍽 Serves: 4
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Herb-Infused Baked Cornish Game Hens offer a delightful twist on your usual poultry fare. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion, these hens are packed with aromatic herbs and spices that deliver a punch of flavor, making them an unforgettable dish.

Ingredients for Herb-Infused Baked Cornish Game Hens

Cornish hens are small, tender birds that cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully. The lemon adds a bright, zesty tang, while garlic brings a savory depth. Fresh rosemary and thyme infuse the hens with earthy, aromatic notes. Olive oil helps the spices adhere and promotes browning. The spice blend of salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper adds a warm, flavorful kick. Finally, low-sodium chicken broth keeps the hens moist and adds a subtle background flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you don’t have a meat thermometer, pierce the thigh — the juices should run clear.
  • For extra crispy skin, pat the hens dry thoroughly before seasoning.
  • You can marinate the hens with the spice rub for a few hours for deeper flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Cornish game hens with a side of roasted root vegetables or a light, refreshing salad. A glass of crisp white wine or a light red complements the dish beautifully, enhancing the herbaceous flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I make this with a whole chicken?
Absolutely, just adjust the cooking time accordingly. A whole chicken will need longer to roast.

Herb-Infused Baked Cornish Game Hens Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F. While it heats up, rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures they roast up nice and crispy.

Next, in a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the hens, making sure to coat them evenly for a balanced flavor.

Now, it's time to stuff each hen with lemon quarters and the fresh herbs. This step is where the magic happens, infusing the birds with incredible flavor as they roast.

Place the hens breast-side up in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the pan, but not over the hens — this helps create steam and keeps them juicy.

Roast in your preheated oven for about 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature hits 165°F. Let them rest for 10 minutes before serving, allowing the juices to redistribute.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Impressive yet simple to prepare, perfect for entertaining.
  • Packed with bold, herby flavors that elevate the humble hen.
  • Uses minimal ingredients for maximum taste impact.
  • Great for a smaller gathering or an intimate dinner.

Ingredients

2 Cornish hens
1 lemon, quartered
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the hens, ensuring even coverage.
5. Stuff each hen with lemon quarters and fresh herbs.
6. Place the hens in a roasting pan, breast-side up, and pour chicken broth into the pan.
7. Roast in preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
8. Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

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