Elevate Your Dinner with Roasted Cornish Game Hens

By Dr. Cindy Tanzar

When it comes to creating a dining experience that’s both elegant and comforting, few dishes can compete with roasted Cornish game hens. Their petite size, juicy meat, and rich flavor make them a special centerpiece for any meal. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting an intimate dinner party, or simply wanting to impress your family, these adorable little birds bring a gourmet touch without requiring gourmet effort. Let’s dive into the delightful recipe that will leave your guests raving!

Why Cornish Game Hens?

Cornish game hens are a delightful alternative to traditional chicken. They cook faster, are packed with flavor, and create an impressive presentation. Each serving is essentially an individual bird, making them perfect for occasions where you want to serve each guest their very own delightful meal.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

This roasted Cornish game hens recipe offers a simple, yet sophisticated approach. With just a handful of ingredients, you can infuse richness and flavor into every bite. The combination of herbs and the light avocado oil enhances the natural taste of the hens. Plus, the veggies add not only flavor but also a beautiful presentation.

Servings: Makes 20-24 servings

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 Tbsp Pink Himalayan salt
• 2 Tbsp lemon-pepper blend
• 1 Tbsp dried basil
• 1 Tbsp poultry seasoning
• 2 Tbsp avocado oil
• 6 Cornish game hens (approximately 1.5 lbs each)
• 1 green bell pepper, large dice
• 2 stalks celery, large dice
• 1 onion, large dice

Directions: Your Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to preheat at 375°F. This ensures that the hens will roast evenly, achieving a golden-brown skin that is crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside.

2. Create the Seasoning Mixture

In a small bowl, stir together the pink Himalayan salt, lemon-pepper blend, dried basil, and poultry seasoning. This fragrant mix is what will elevate your hens from simple to divine.

3. Prepare the Hens

Rinse and carefully dry each Cornish game hen. This is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy skin. Once dried, rub the avocado oil generously all over each hen, followed by the seasoning mix. Don’t be shy; make sure every inch of the birds is coated!

4. Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the prepared hens on a large baking sheet lined with foil. Make sure there is ample space between each hen, as this will help them brown evenly and crisp up nicely. If needed, use two baking sheets placed on the same oven rack.

5. Stuff the Hens

Loosely stuff the cavity of each hen with the diced green bell pepper, celery, and onion. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the presentation when you serve them.

6. Roast to Perfection

Roast the hens for about 1 hour or until the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F on an instant-read thermometer. You’ll know they’re done when the juices run clear—a sign of juicy, well-cooked meat.

7. Let Them Rest

Once out of the oven, remove the hens and loosely tent them with foil. Allow them to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring that each bite is as flavorful as possible.

Serving Suggestions Cornish Game Hens

What makes this dish even better is how versatile it is! Serve your roasted Cornish game hens alongside roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light salad for a balanced meal. For an added touch, drizzle a little balsamic reduction or lemon vinaigrette over the top before serving.

Adjusting the Recipe

This recipe makes 20-24 servings, ideal for large gatherings. If your dinner plans call for fewer hens, no problem! If cooking three hens, simply halve the ingredients; for two hens, cut by a third. Easy adjustments mean you can enjoy this elegant dish any time.

Conclusion

Roasted Cornish game hens are truly a meal fit for a celebration. With their tender meat and beautiful presentation, they are guaranteed to impress your family and guests. So, the next time you want to turn an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience, remember this delicious recipe. Happy cooking!

Enjoy your culinary journey with this delectable dish, and don’t forget to share your experiences and photos! How did your Cornish game hens turn out? Let me know in the comments below!