Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this indulgent Cornish Game Hen Parmesan recipe—a sophisticated twist on classic Chicken Parmesan. Perfectly seasoned Cornish game hens are butterflied for quicker cooking, then coated in a crispy golden crust of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. After a quick sear, they’re baked to juicy perfection before being smothered in rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and a fragrant garnish of fresh basil. This elegant dish is ideal for impressing dinner guests, offering a restaurant-quality experience at home. Serve it over spaghetti or alongside your favorite sides for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is irresistible. With just 20 minutes of prep time, this recipe combines comfort and sophistication for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Butterfly each Cornish game hen by removing the backbone with kitchen shears and pressing it flat. Pat them dry with paper towels.
Season the hens with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. Fill the first bowl with all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Dredge each hen in flour, then dip it in the egg mixture, and coat it generously with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the hens to ensure an even coating.
In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the hens on both sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Transfer the skillet with the hens into the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the skillet from the oven and evenly spoon marinara sauce over each hen. Add shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Return the skillet to the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Serve hot with optional spaghetti or your favorite side dish.
Calories |
4652 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 237.6 g | 305% | |
| Saturated Fat | 72.9 g | 365% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1328 mg | 443% | |
| Sodium | 8664 mg | 377% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 263.0 g | 96% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.9 g | 57% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.4 g | ||
| Protein | 345.4 g | 691% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.3 mcg | 26% | |
| Calcium | 2022 mg | 156% | |
| Iron | 27.4 mg | 152% | |
| Potassium | 2858 mg | 61% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.