The roasted cornish hen recipe is a delicious and elegant dish that can be prepared in your very own kitchen. This recipe is a perfect blend of aromatic herbs and spices, juicy Cornish hens, and optional hearty vegetables. The hens are roasted to perfection, resulting in a crispy skin and a tender, juicy interior.
The key ingredient for this recipe is the Cornish hens. These are a smaller breed of chicken that are perfect for individual servings. They can be found in the poultry section of most supermarkets. If you cannot find them, a small chicken can be substituted. The other ingredients are fairly common, but make sure to get high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs for the best flavor.
Ingredients for Roasted Cornish Hen Recipe
Cornish hens: These are small chickens that are perfect for individual servings.
Olive oil: Used to help the herbs stick to the hens and to add extra flavor.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Seasonings that enhance the flavor of the hens.
Dried rosemary and thyme leaves: These herbs add a wonderful, savory flavor to the dish.
Lemon zest: Adds a touch of tanginess to complement the savory flavors.
Garlic powder: Added for a hint of garlicky flavor.
Potatoes, carrots, and onion: These vegetables are optional, but provide a hearty accompaniment to the hens.
One reader, Hasty Batts says:
This roasted Cornish hen recipe is a game-changer! The hens turned out so juicy and flavorful, and the herbs added a delightful aroma. The vegetables were the perfect complement. It's a simple yet impressive dish that's sure to impress your guests. I highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques Required for Roasted Cornish Hen Recipe
How to preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit before starting the cooking process to ensure it reaches the desired temperature when the hens are ready to be roasted.
How to season the vegetables: Toss the vegetables with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season them with salt and pepper to taste. Additional herbs can be added for extra flavor.
How to prepare the hens: Combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil and herbs in a small bowl, then brush the hens with the olive oil mixture. Twist the wings to tuck them under the bird for even cooking.
How to arrange the hens and vegetables: Place the hens in a large casserole dish or on a rimmed baking sheet, and arrange the prepared vegetables around the hens before placing them in the oven.
How to check for doneness: Bake the hens for 55 to 65 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The vegetables should also be tender. Use a thermometer to ensure the hens are fully cooked, making sure it does not touch the bone.
How to rest the hens: After removing the hens from the oven, loosely tent them with foil and let them rest for 10 minutes before cutting and serving.
How To Make Roasted Cornish Hen
Make any occasion extra special with this roasted cornish hen. It’s brushed with olive oil and a blend of herbs, then baked with vegetables until tender.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3lbsCornish hens
- 3tbspolive oil,divided
- ½tspkosher salt,or to taste
- ¼tspblack pepper
- ½tspdried rosemary,crushed
- ½tsplemon zest
- ¼tspthyme leaves
- ¼tspgarlic powder
For Optional Vegetables:
- 1lbpotatoes,chopped
- 2carrots,chopped
- 1onion,chopped
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
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Toss vegetables with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Add extra herbs if desired.
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Combine the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and herbs in a small bowl. Brush hens with olive oil mixture. Twist wings to tuck under the bird.
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Place hens in a large casserole dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Arrange the prepared vegetables around the hends and place in the oven. Reduce heat to 400 degrees F.k\
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Bake for 55to 65 minutes or just until hens reach 165 degrees F with a thermometer and vegetables are tender. (Ensure the thermometer does not touch the bone.)
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Remove from the oven and loosely tent with foil for 10 minutes before cutting.
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Cut hens in half using kitchen scissors and serve.
Nutrition
- Calories: 883.98kcal
- Fat: 58.06g
- Saturated Fat: 14.70g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 28.36g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 10.58g
- Carbohydrates: 26.06g
- Fiber: 4.04g
- Sugar: 3.67g
- Protein: 61.33g
- Cholesterol: 343.60mg
- Sodium: 472.24mg
- Calcium: 71.94mg
- Potassium: 1430.50mg
- Iron: 3.84mg
- Vitamin A: 363.95µg
- Vitamin C: 28.65mg
Technique Tip for Roasting Cornish Hen
When roasting cornish hens, it's important to remember that the skin can easily burn if the oven is too hot. To prevent this, start with a high heat to get a nice, crispy skin, then reduce the heat to allow the bird to cook through without burning. Also, brushing the hens with an olive oil and herb mixture not only adds flavor but helps to achieve a beautifully browned and crispy skin. Remember to baste the hens periodically with the pan juices to keep them moist and flavorful.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Roasted Cornish Hen
Prep ahead: Prepare the olive oil and herb mixture and marinate the hens the night before. This will allow the flavors to infuse, saving time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-cut vegetables: Consider using pre-cut vegetables from the store to save time on prep work. This can be a convenient time-saver without compromising on flavor.
Invest in a meat thermometer: Investing in a reliable meat thermometer can help ensure that the hens are cooked to perfection without the need for guesswork, saving time and ensuring a delicious outcome.
Multi-task: While the hens are roasting, use the time to prepare a simple side salad or set the table. Making the most of the cooking time can help save overall time in the kitchen.
Efficient cutting: Use kitchen shears to easily and efficiently cut the hens in half, saving time and effort during the serving process.
Substitute Ingredients For Roasted Cornish Hen Recipe
Cornish hens - Substitute with quail: Quail is a smaller bird with a similar flavor profile, making it a suitable substitute for Cornish hens in this recipe.
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
Kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt in equal amounts, providing a similar level of saltiness.
Black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, providing a slightly different flavor profile.
Dried rosemary - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used as a substitute for rosemary, providing a similar earthy and slightly floral flavor.
Lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can be used as a substitute for lemon zest, providing a citrusy aroma and flavor.
Thyme leaves - Substitute with marjoram: Marjoram can be used as a substitute for thyme, providing a similar earthy and slightly sweet flavor.
Garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can be used as a substitute for garlic powder, providing a savory and slightly sweet flavor.
Potatoes - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute for potatoes, adding a slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
Carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips can be used as a substitute for carrots, providing a similar earthy and slightly sweet flavor.
Onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor.
Presenting Your Roasted Cornish Hen
Elevate the plating: When presenting the roasted Cornish hen, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Use edible flowers and microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate height: Create visual interest by incorporating height into the presentation. Consider using vertical plating techniques to add dimension to the dish, making it visually striking and appealing to the eye.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the main dish and accompanying vegetables to stand out. This minimalist approach can draw attention to the vibrant colors and textures of the food.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate. Precision is key in creating a visually stunning presentation that showcases the care and attention to detail put into the dish.
Incorporate complementary colors: Consider the color wheel when selecting additional elements for the plate. Utilize complementary colors to create a visually harmonious presentation that is both aesthetically pleasing and appetizing.
Highlight the main dish: Place the beautifully roasted Cornish hen as the focal point of the plate, ensuring that it takes center stage and is the star of the presentation.
Use elegant serving ware: Select elegant and sophisticated serving ware that complements the dish. Opt for fine china or artisanal ceramic plates to elevate the overall dining experience.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a final touch to the presentation by delicately garnishing the dish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of freshness to the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Roasted Cornish Hen
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for roasting, baking, and heating food.
- Casserole dish: A deep, oven-safe dish used for baking and serving food.
- Rimmed baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal sheet with raised edges, used for baking and roasting.
- Kitchen scissors: Scissors designed for kitchen use, often used for cutting poultry and other foods.
- Thermometer: A tool used to measure the internal temperature of the food to ensure it is cooked thoroughly and safely.
Storing and Freezing Roasted Cornish Hen
- Let the cornish hens cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze the cornish hens, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Label the container with the date and contents.
- Frozen cornish hens can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the hens in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- To reheat the cornish hens, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the hens in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat them, as they can dry out quickly.
- If you have leftover vegetables from the recipe, store them separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet on the stovetop until heated through.
- If you want to freeze the leftover vegetables, blanch them first by boiling them for a few minutes, then immediately placing them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and store in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
How To Reheat Leftover Roasted Cornish Hen
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover cornish hen on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method helps to retain moisture and prevent the skin from becoming too crispy.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the cornish hen pieces in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the meat to become tough and rubbery.
If you want to crisp up the skin, you can use the broiler. Preheat your broiler and place the cornish hen pieces on a baking sheet. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Keep a close eye on the hen to prevent burning.
For a stovetop method, place the cornish hen pieces in a skillet with a small amount of chicken broth or water. Cover the skillet and heat over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the hen is heated through. This method helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover cornish hen. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the hen pieces in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the skin is crispy.
Random Fact About Roasted Cornish Hen
The Cornish hen is not a specific breed of chicken, but rather a small broiler chicken, usually weighing between 1-2 pounds. Despite its name, it is not actually a game bird, but a hybrid of Cornish and White Plymouth Rock chickens. This small bird is often considered a delicacy and is perfect for individual servings.
Is Making Roasted Cornish Hen at Home Economical?
This roasted Cornish hen recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main cost lies in the Cornish hens, which can be pricier than regular chicken. However, the dish is elevated by the addition of vegetables, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30, depending on the price of ingredients. The overall verdict for this recipe is 8/10, considering the flavor, presentation, and the overall experience it offers.
Is Roasted Cornish Hen Healthy or Unhealthy?
This roasted Cornish hen recipe can be considered relatively healthy, as it incorporates lean protein from the hens and includes a variety of vegetables. The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while the herbs and spices add flavor without relying on excessive salt or sugar. However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of olive oil, which, although healthy, is still high in calories. Reducing the amount of oil used could help lower the overall calorie count.
- The vegetables mentioned (potatoes, carrots, and onions) are all relatively starchy. Incorporating more non-starchy vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini, would increase the fiber content and provide a greater variety of nutrients.
- The recipe does not specify the removal of the hen's skin, which is high in saturated fat. Removing the skin before cooking or before consuming the dish would reduce the saturated fat content.
To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used to 2 tablespoons in total, and use a cooking spray to coat the hens and vegetables instead.
- Include a wider variety of non-starchy vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or mushrooms, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.
- Remove the skin from the hens before cooking or before consuming to reduce the saturated fat intake.
- Experiment with additional herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or paprika, to add more flavor without increasing the sodium content.
- Serve the roasted Cornish hens with a side salad or a whole grain, such as quinoa or brown rice, to create a well-rounded and balanced meal.
Editor's Thoughts on This Roasted Cornish Hen Recipe
The roasted Cornish hen recipe is a delightful and flavorful dish. The combination of olive oil, herbs, and lemon zest creates a tantalizing aroma and a burst of savory flavors. The cooking instructions are clear and easy to follow, ensuring a perfectly cooked and tender result. The addition of vegetables complements the hens beautifully, adding a wholesome and satisfying element to the dish. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a special dinner, impressing guests with its elegant presentation and delicious taste.
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Why trust this Roasted Cornish Hen Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a succulent and flavorful outcome, as the cornish hens are generously coated with olive oil, rosemary, and thyme, enhancing their natural taste. The addition of lemon zest infuses a refreshing aroma, while the garlic powder adds depth to the flavor profile. The optional potatoes, carrots, and onion complement the hens perfectly, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal. With meticulous attention to detail and a harmonious blend of herbs and spices, this recipe ensures a delightful dining experience.
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