How To Bake A Cornish Hen

How to Bake a Delicious Cornish Hen

Are you looking for a simple and delicious recipe to impress your dinner guests? Look no further than the classic Cornish hen. This small bird is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner. With the right techniques, you can bake a Cornish hen to perfection, creating a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish hens
• 4 tablespoons of butter
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C) to ensure a crispy and golden skin on the hens.
2. Prepare the hens: Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season the cavity of each hen with salt and pepper.
3. Flavor the butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. This flavorful butter will be used to baste the hens as they bake.
4. Season the hens: Gently lift the skin of the hens and rub the garlic butter underneath the skin. Be sure to distribute the butter evenly to infuse the meat with rich flavor.
5. Add aromatics: Place a few slices of lemon and a couple of sprigs of fresh thyme inside the cavity of each hen. These aromatics will impart a lovely citrus and herb flavor to the meat.
6. Tie the legs: To ensure even cooking, tie the legs of each hen together with kitchen twine. This will help the hens retain their shape and cook evenly.
7. Place in the oven: Transfer the hens to a roasting pan and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Baste the hens: Every 15 minutes, baste the hens with the pan juices and any remaining garlic butter. This will help keep the meat moist and flavorful.
9. Rest and serve: Once the hens are cooked through, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of baking a Cornish hen, it’s time to gather your loved ones and enjoy this delectable dish together. Whether you’re serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes, your perfectly baked Cornish hen is sure to be the star of the meal.

So, next time you’re in the mood for a special dinner, consider baking a Cornish hen. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a memorable dining experience that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.