Easy Cornish Game Hens
Elevate your dinner routine with this Easy Cornish Game Hens recipe, a perfect choice for a sophisticated yet effortless meal. These tender, succulent hens are seasoned simply with garlic, rosemary, and a hint of lemon, then roasted to golden perfection in a bath of buttery chicken broth. Ideal for special occasions or an elevated weeknight dinner, this one-pan recipe highlights the elegance of Cornish game hens while keeping preparation fuss-free. With just 15 minutes of prep and simple basting for extra flavor, this dish delivers juicy meat and crispy skin every time. Serve these individually portioned hens alongside roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a memorable dining experience that's as impressive as it is easy. Perfect for those seeking a flavorful, gourmet recipe with minimal effort!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 whole Cornish game hens
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 4 minced Garlic cloves
- 1 whole Lemon
- 2 sprigs Fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 cup Chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Rinse the Cornish game hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Make sure to remove any giblets if present.
Rub the hens all over with the olive oil, ensuring even coverage.
Season the hens generously with salt and black pepper, inside and out.
Stuff the cavity of each hen with half of the minced garlic, half of the lemon (cut into wedges), and one rosemary sprig.
Truss the hens by tying the legs together with kitchen twine to help them cook evenly and retain their moisture.
In a large roasting pan, spread the softened butter in a thin layer across the bottom and pour in the chicken broth.
Place the hens breast-side up in the roasting pan, ensuring they do not touch each other.
Roast the hens in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when a meat thermometer is inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.
Baste the hens every 15-20 minutes with the pan drippings to keep them moist and flavorful.
Once fully cooked, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender meat.
Serve the Cornish game hens with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2515 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 162.2 g | 208% | |
| Saturated Fat | 48.4 g | 242% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 862 mg | 287% | |
| Sodium | 3623 mg | 158% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 12.2 g | 4% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.0 g | ||
| Protein | 235.1 g | 470% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.5 mcg | 12% | |
| Calcium | 223 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 14.2 mg | 79% | |
| Potassium | 2573 mg | 55% | |
*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.
