Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Look no further than the humble Cornish hen! This versatile and flavorful poultry dish can be prepared in a multitude of ways, from classic roasted to bold and spicy. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering Cornish hen recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends.
From savory herb-crusted hens to sweet and sticky glazes, these recipes showcase the best of what Cornish hens have to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and let’s get started on this culinary journey!
Herb-Roasted Cornish Hens with Garlic Butter
Impress your guests with these flavorful and aromatic roasted Cornish hens, infused with the savory goodness of fresh herbs and rich garlic butter. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Cornish hens (1-2 lbs each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the Cornish hens and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and dried thyme.
4. Stuff each hen’s cavity with about 1-2 tbsp of the herb-garlic mixture.
5. Place the hens in a roasting pan, breast side up, and drizzle with any remaining herb-garlic mixture.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Baste with pan juices every 20 minutes for extra flavor.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon and Rosemary Glazed Cornish Hens
Elevate your dinner game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe, where the brightness of lemon zest and juice is perfectly balanced by the earthy essence of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 2 Cornish hens (about 1.5 lbs each)
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the Cornish hens and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon zest, juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the glaze all over the hens, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Place the hens on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Cajun Cornish Hens with Creole Seasoning
A flavorful twist on traditional roasted hens, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun and Creole cuisine to create a spicy and savory dish perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 Cornish hens (about 1 lb each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Creole seasoning
– 1/2 tsp ground cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the hens under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together Creole seasoning, cayenne pepper, and paprika.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of each hen.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the hens, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the hens on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, breast side up.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple-Glazed Cornish Hens with Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your holiday dinner with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the flavors of maple syrup, honey, and herbs. This show-stopping dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 Cornish hens (1-1.5 lbs each)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, honey, olive oil, thyme, and sage.
3. Season the Cornish hens with salt and pepper.
4. Place the hens in a roasting pan, breast side up. Brush the glaze all over the birds.
5. Roast the hens for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
7. Roast the sweet potatoes for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Cornish Hens with Crispy Skin
Elevate your dinner game with these savory and aromatic Cornish hens, smothered in a rich garlic parmesan sauce and finished with crispy skin.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Cornish hens
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the Cornish hens and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and Parmesan cheese.
4. Stuff each hen with the garlic-Parmesan mixture, dividing it evenly among the hens.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the hens and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the hens on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, breast-side up.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through and skin is crispy.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Cornish Hens
Elegant yet effortless, these Honey Mustard Glazed Cornish Hens are perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. With a sweet and tangy glaze, they’re sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 2 (1-1/2 pound) Cornish hens
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the hens and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, vinegar, and olive oil.
4. Brush the glaze all over the hens, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Place the hens on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cornish Hens Stuffed with Wild Rice and Mushrooms
Elevate your special occasion meal with this flavorful and visually appealing dish. Tender Cornish hens are stuffed with a savory wild rice and mushroom mixture, perfect for a holiday or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Cornish hens
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini and shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water.
3. In a skillet, sauté chopped onion and mushrooms in olive oil until tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stuff each Cornish hen with the wild rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the birds.
5. Season hens with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place hens on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Cornish Hens with Thyme
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of balsamic glaze with the tender goodness of Cornish hens.
Ingredients:
– 2 (1-1.5 lb) Cornish hens
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and olive oil.
4. Place the hens on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze mixture evenly over both hens, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Sprinkle chopped thyme over each hen, followed by salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Asian-Inspired Soy Ginger Cornish Hens
Elevate your dinner game with this aromatic and savory recipe, perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and honey creates a rich and complex flavor profile that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Cornish hens (1-1.5 lbs each)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, honey, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Rinse the Cornish hens and pat dry with paper towels. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the soy-ginger mixture evenly over the hens, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Drizzle with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through, basting occasionally.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cornish Hens with Orange and Rosemary Marinade
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful recipe that combines the tender taste of Cornish hens with the brightness of orange and the earthiness of rosemary. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Cornish hens (1-1.5 lbs each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the Cornish hens in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the hens, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the hens from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place the hens on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Roasted Cornish Hens with Herb Butter and Vegetables
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering recipe featuring succulent roasted Cornish hens, fragrant herb butter, and a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Cornish hens (1-1.5 lbs each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large red onion, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Rinse Cornish hens and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Season the hens with salt and pepper.
5. Place the hens in a roasting pan and dot with herb butter.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the skin is golden brown.
7. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread around the hens.
8. Continue to roast for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-55 minutes
Cornish Hens with Pomegranate Molasses Glaze
Elevate your holiday meal with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the flavors of pomegranate and herb-roasted Cornish hens.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Cornish hens (1-1.5 lbs each)
– 1/4 cup pomegranate molasses
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the Cornish hens and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate molasses, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the glaze all over the Cornish hens, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Place the hens in a roasting pan and roast for 35-40 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
6. Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic and Herb Marinated Cornish Hens
Elevate your dinner party with this mouth-watering recipe, featuring tender Cornish hens marinated in a savory blend of garlic, herbs, and citrus.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Cornish hens
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the Cornish hens to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the hens from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Baste the hens with chicken broth every 10 minutes to keep moist and add flavor.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cornish Hens with Honey and Spice Rub
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe for Cornish Hens with Honey and Spice Rub. The combination of sweet honey, savory spices, and crispy skin will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Cornish hens (1-1.5 lbs each)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
4. Apply the honey-spice rub evenly to both sides of the birds, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Place the hens on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, breast-side up.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the hens rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cornish Hens Braised in White Wine and Herbs
This classic dish combines the rich flavors of white wine and herbs with the tender meat of Cornish hens, perfect for a special occasion or Sunday dinner. The slow-cooking process ensures fall-off-the-bone tenderness and a deliciously flavorful sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Cornish hens (1 1/2 to 2 pounds each)
– 1 cup white wine (dry, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the Cornish hens, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Brown the hens on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add wine, broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Return the hens to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cornish Hens with Garlic and Lemon Butter Sauce
Elevate your dinner table with this flavorful and aromatic recipe for Cornish hens, smothered in a rich garlic and lemon butter sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Cornish hens (1-1.5 lbs each)
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the Cornish hens and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, lemon juice, and softened butter.
4. Stuff each hen’s cavity with about 1 tsp of the garlic-lemon butter mixture.
5. Season the outside of the hens with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the hens and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cornish Hens with Cranberry and Orange Glaze
Elevate your dinner party game with this show-stopping recipe featuring tender Cornish hens smothered in a tangy cranberry and orange glaze. Perfect for the holidays or special occasions, these hens are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Cornish hens (1 1/2 lbs each)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens.
3. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange marmalade, honey, mustard, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stuff each hen with 1/4 cup of the glaze, reserving the remaining for serving.
5. Season hens with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the hens in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve warm, spooning some of the reserved glaze over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cornish Hens with Smoked Paprika and Garlic
Elevate your poultry game with this aromatic recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked paprika and garlic. These tender Cornish hens are perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Cornish hens
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the Cornish hens and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the hens, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Place the hens on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornish Hens with Herbed Bread Stuffing
Impress your guests with these savory and aromatic roasted Cornish hens, filled with a flavorful herbed bread stuffing. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 Cornish hens (1-1.5 lbs each)
– 1 loaf of white bread, torn into small pieces
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix bread, butter, parsley, garlic, and thyme.
3. Stuff each Cornish hen with the herbed bread mixture, dividing it evenly among the four hens.
4. Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan, breast side up.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cornish Hens with Caramelized Onions and Thyme
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of roasted Cornish hens paired with rich caramelized onions and fragrant thyme. This elegant dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Cornish hens (1-1.5 lbs each)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the sliced onions and toss until they’re evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Place the Cornish hens in a roasting pan and spread the caramelized onion mixture over each hen.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the hens are golden brown and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your dinner guests with these mouth-watering Cornish Hen recipes! From classic herb-roasted hens to bold flavors like spicy Cajun and maple-glazed, there’s something for every taste. Try garlic parmesan with crispy skin, honey mustard glaze, or wild rice and mushroom stuffing. For a sweet twist, go for pomegranate molasses glaze or cranberry and orange glaze. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try Asian-inspired soy ginger or smoky paprika and garlic. Whatever your taste buds desire, these 20 delicious recipes are sure to satisfy.
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