Go Back
+ servings
Roasted Cornish Hen

Indulge in Juicy Roasted Cornish Hen Like a Pro Chef

Enjoy a flavorful Roasted Cornish Hen that is juicy and elegant, making for a perfect dinner centerpiece.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Hens
  • 2 whole Cornish hens
  • 2 sprigs rosemary, whole
For the Marinade
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 whole lemon, halved
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • roasting pan
  • Meat thermometer
  • cutting board
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Kitchen Twine

Method
 

Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the Cornish hens dry with paper towels.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme.
  4. Rub the marinade over the Cornish hens inside and out.
  5. Season each hen with salt and black pepper, including inside the cavity.
  6. Stuff each hen's cavity with half a lemon and 1 sprig of rosemary.
  7. Tie the legs of each hen together with kitchen twine.
  8. Place the hens breast-side up on a rack in the roasting pan.
  9. Roast the hens for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  10. Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1henCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 35gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure to dry the skin thoroughly for a crispy result. Prepare and season the hens a day in advance for deeper flavor.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!