Delicious and Easy Cornish Hens Recipe
Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re going to show you how to bake the most delicious Cornish hens in the oven. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a holiday meal. The best part is that it’s super easy to make, so even if you’re not an experienced cook, you can still impress your guests with this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Start by rinsing the Cornish hens under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels.
- Place the hens on a cutting board and rub them with the softened butter, making sure to coat them evenly.
- Season the hens inside and out with the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
- Stuff the cavity of each hen with the sliced lemon.
- Place the hens in a roasting pan, breast side up.
- Roast the hens in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once the hens are cooked through, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Now, your delicious Cornish hens are ready to be served! You can pair them with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The tender and flavorful meat of the hens, combined with the aromatic herbs and zesty lemon, will surely impress your family and friends.
So, next time you’re looking for a special meal to serve, consider making these baked Cornish hens. They’re easy to prepare, yet they look and taste like a gourmet masterpiece. Enjoy!
Share your thoughts and experiences on baking Cornish hens in the oven in the Baking and Desserts section of our cooking forum. Join the discussion and learn from other home cooks who have mastered this delicious dish!
FAQ:
What is the best way to prepare Cornish hens for baking in the oven?
To prepare Cornish hens for baking in the oven, start by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Then, season them with your choice of herbs, spices, and a little bit of olive oil to help the skin crisp up during baking.
How long should I bake Cornish hens in the oven and at what temperature?
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and bake the Cornish hens for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
What are some delicious seasoning options for Cornish hens?
You can season Cornish hens with a variety of herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. You can also add a touch of lemon or orange zest for a citrusy flavor.
Should I cover the Cornish hens while baking in the oven?
It’s best to start baking the Cornish hens uncovered to allow the skin to crisp up. However, if you notice the skin getting too dark during baking, you can loosely cover the hens with aluminum foil for the remaining cooking time.
How can I ensure that the Cornish hens stay moist and juicy while baking in the oven?
To keep the Cornish hens moist and juicy, you can baste them with melted butter or olive oil every 20-30 minutes during the baking process. This will help the skin brown and the meat stay tender.
Can I stuff the Cornish hens before baking them in the oven?
Yes, you can stuff the cavity of the Cornish hens with your favorite stuffing mixture before baking them in the oven. Just make sure the stuffing reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) along with the hens.
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