Cornish hens are a smaller variety of chicken that are perfect for individual servings. They are tender, juicy, and full of flavor when cooked properly. In this article, we will discuss how to cook Cornish hens in the oven to achieve a delicious and impressive meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
Before we get started, let’s gather the ingredients you will need to cook Cornish hens in the oven:
- 2 Cornish hens
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of melted butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
– Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) for a hot and fast cooking method that will result in crispy skin and juicy meat.
2. Prepare the Cornish Hens
– Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
– Truss the Cornish hens by tying the legs together with kitchen twine for even cooking.
3. Season the Cornish Hens
– In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
– Rub the seasoning mixture all over the Cornish hens, making sure to coat them evenly.
4. Roast the Cornish Hens
– Place the seasoned Cornish hens on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan, breast side up.
– Roast in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
– Baste the Cornish hens with the pan juices every 15 minutes to keep them moist and flavorful.
5. Rest and Serve
– Once the Cornish hens are cooked through, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.
– Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, before slicing and serving the Cornish hens.
Tips for Cooking Cornish Hens:
– Trussing: Trussing the Cornish hens helps them cook more evenly and retain their shape.
– Basting: Basting the Cornish hens with pan juices helps keep them moist and flavorful during cooking.
– Internal Temperature: Ensure the Cornish hens reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked and safe to eat.
– Crispy Skin: For extra crispy skin, you can increase the oven temperature to 475°F (245°C) in the last few minutes of cooking.
Flavor Variations:
– Lemon and Herb: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley to the seasoning mixture for a bright and refreshing flavor.
– Garlic and Parmesan: Mix minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese into the seasoning mixture for a rich and savory taste.
– Barbecue Glaze: Brush the Cornish hens with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a sticky and delicious glaze.
Serving Suggestions:
– Serve the roasted Cornish hens with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
– Pair the Cornish hens with a glass of white wine or sparkling cider for a delightful dining experience.
Conclusion:
Cooking Cornish hens in the oven is a simple yet impressive way to create a delicious meal for any occasion. By following these easy steps and tips, you can enjoy tender and flavorful Cornish hens that are sure to please your family and guests. Experiment with different seasonings and flavors to customize the dish to your taste preferences. So go ahead, preheat your oven, and start cooking Cornish hens today!
