Description
Looking for an elegant yet easy dinner idea? This Best Roasted Cornish Hen Ever is a game-changer. Juicy, flavorful, and wrapped in golden crispy skin, it’s the perfect solution for quick dinners, romantic meals, or special occasions. With garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs, it’s bursting with classic roast flavor. Whether you’re in need of new food ideas, easy recipes, or healthy snack alternatives, this dish delivers every time.
Ingredients
1 to 1.5 lbs Cornish hen per person
2 tbsp butter, softened
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, halved
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
1 cup carrots, chopped (optional)
1 cup onions, sliced (optional)
1 cup potatoes, chopped (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat Cornish hens dry and let them sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
2. Mix butter, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Loosen skin of hens and rub mixture under and over skin. Squeeze lemon juice on top. Stuff cavity with lemon wedge and herb sprig.
3. Tie legs with kitchen twine. Place hens on a wire rack or roasting pan. Add optional vegetables if using.
4. Roast for 45–55 minutes. Baste halfway through. Cook until skin is golden and internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).
5. Let hens rest for 10 minutes before serving. Spoon pan juices on top when plating.
Notes
Let the hens rest before serving to lock in juices.
Use fresh herbs for the most vibrant flavor.
Add veggies around the hens to create a built-in side dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hen
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 23g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 55g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
Keywords: Cornish hen, easy dinner, roasted chicken, weeknight dinner, special occasion meal