Lemon Herb Cornish Hens

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're looking for a simple yet elegant dish to impress your guests, these Lemon Herb Cornish Hens are a perfect choice. With a delightful blend of fresh herbs and zesty lemon, this recipe brings out the best in tender Cornish hens, making it a standout option for any dinner gathering.

Ingredients for Lemon Herb Cornish Hens

Cornish hens are smaller than regular chickens, making them ideal for individual portions and quicker cooking. Olive oil helps the skin crisp up while keeping the meat moist. Lemon adds a bright, tangy kick that pairs beautifully with herbs. Garlic offers a pungent depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste. Fresh rosemary and thyme bring a woodsy, aromatic quality. A touch of salt and black pepper ensures the flavors really pop. Finally, chicken broth in the roasting pan helps keep the hens juicy throughout the cooking process.

Tips & Tricks

  • Ensure the hens are at room temperature before cooking for even roasting.
  • If you like extra crispy skin, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (204°C) for the last 10 minutes.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check doneness without cutting into the hens.

Serving Suggestions

These Lemon Herb Cornish Hens pair wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, serve with creamy mashed potatoes or a wild rice pilaf. A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs. Use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the crispiness.

Lemon Herb Cornish Hens Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it's ready when you are. Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures the skin gets nice and crispy.

Next, rub each hen with olive oil, making sure you coat them evenly. Sprinkle the outside and inside with salt and black pepper to season them well.

Slice your lemon thinly and mince the garlic. Stuff the cavity of each hen with the lemon slices, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of rosemary and thyme. This will infuse the meat with flavor from the inside out.

Place the hens breast side up in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the pan — this helps keep the hens moist as they roast. Slide the pan into your preheated oven.

Roast the hens for 50 to 60 minutes. You'll know they're done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is a beautiful golden brown. Once finished, let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfectly sized for individual servings — no carving required!
  • The combination of rosemary, thyme, and lemon creates a fresh, aromatic flavor.
  • Minimal prep time with maximum flavor payoff.
  • Ideal for special occasions or a cozy dinner for two.

Ingredients

2 Cornish hens (about 1.5 lbs each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup chicken broth

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens with paper towels.
3. Rub the hens with olive oil, making sure to coat them evenly.
4. Season the hens inside and out with salt and black pepper.
5. Stuff the cavity of each hen with lemon slices, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
6. Place the hens breast side up in a roasting pan.
7. Pour chicken broth into the pan to keep the hens moist.
8. Roast in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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