How To Smoke Cornish Hens On Pellet Grill

Smoking Cornish Hens on a Pellet Grill

If you’re looking for a delicious and impressive dish to serve at your next gathering, smoking Cornish hens on a pellet grill is a fantastic option. The smoky flavor and juicy meat make for a mouthwatering meal that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Plus, the process is easier than you might think. With the right techniques and a little bit of patience, you’ll be able to create a memorable dining experience for your friends and family.

Preparing the Cornish Hens

Before you start smoking the Cornish hens, it’s important to properly prepare them for the grill. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Thaw the hens: If your hens are frozen, be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Season the hens: Create a flavorful seasoning blend using your favorite herbs and spices. Rub the seasoning all over the hens, making sure to coat them thoroughly.
3. Truss the hens: Trussing the hens will help them cook evenly and retain their shape during the smoking process.

Setting Up the Pellet Grill

Now that your hens are prepped and ready to go, it’s time to get the pellet grill set up for smoking. Follow these steps to ensure that your grill is ready to go:

1. Preheat the grill: Start by preheating your pellet grill to a temperature of 275°F. This will create the perfect environment for smoking the hens.
2. Add the wood pellets: Choose a high-quality wood pellet, such as hickory or apple, to infuse the hens with a delicious smoky flavor.
3. Place the hens on the grill: Once the grill is preheated and the wood pellets are added, place the seasoned and trussed hens directly on the grill grates.

Smoking the Cornish Hens

With the pellet grill set up and the hens in place, it’s time to start the smoking process. Here are a few tips to ensure that your hens turn out perfectly:

1. Monitor the temperature: Keep an eye on the temperature of the grill, making adjustments as needed to maintain a consistent temperature of 275°F.
2. Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that the hens are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part of the meat.
3. Give it time: Smoking Cornish hens on a pellet grill typically takes around 2-3 hours, but cooking times can vary based on the size of the hens and the specific grill you’re using.

Serving the Smoked Cornish Hens

Once the hens have finished smoking and have reached a safe internal temperature, it’s time to take them off the grill and get ready to serve. Let the hens rest for a few minutes before carving them, and then present them to your guests for a show-stopping meal that’s sure to impress.

Smoking Cornish hens on a pellet grill is a fantastic way to elevate your grilling game and create a memorable dining experience for your friends and family. With a little bit of preparation and the right techniques, you’ll be able to serve up juicy, flavorful hens that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.