I’ll have to ask for them next time I’m there. A roasted Cornish hen makes a wonderful meal if you’re cooking for one. For a fabulous meal add a side of vegetables, rice and/or a salad.
- First of all, they are also commonly called Cornish game hens.
- I find that smaller birds are ideal, especially if you want to serve one per person.
- You’d be surprised at how delicious simple seasoning can be!
- If you’re cooking slightly larger hens , you can cut the roasted hens in half and serve a half per person.
If this is the case, let it rest in the Air Fryer for a minute or two until you can remove it carefully with your hand. Remove hens from package, and rinse well. Place on a plate and pat VERY dry, inside and out, with paper towels. Then, trim off any excess fat/skin with kitchen shears . My comments should have been posted on Thanksgiving Day but we were too fat and happy to type!
If your air fryer is preheated or if you are cooking multiple batches, you may need to reduce timing by a few minutes . Spray basket/tray of air fryer with oil spray or line with a perforated silicone liner or perforated parchment paper. Lay hens breast side down in the basket/tray. Perfect for air frying, these Cornish hens are juicy and flavorful. Most hens average ounces are great for smaller air fryers. If air frying just one Cornish hen, Air Fry at 350°F/177°C.
What To Serve With Cornish Hen
Your leftover roasted Cornish hens will last 3-4 days in the fridge or 1-3 months in the freezer. It reheats very well in the microwave. You can also keep some of the pan drippings and reheat the chicken in a skillet with the drippings to prevent it from drying out.
Brush the hen with olive oil then rub the thyme mixture all over, getting underneath the wings, legs, and skin whenever possible. In a large skillet, melt the butter. Once hot, add the onion, celery, and a big pinch of salt.
Ways To Maximize the flavor of Cornish Game Hens
In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil, lemon zest, fresh herbs, salt and pepper. Baste both sides of each hen with the olive oil, pouring any remaining in the cavity. Arrange 2-3 inches apart with the breast side up. Roasted Cornish Hens are basted with a fresh herbs olive oil, roasted for browned crispy skin and finished with a zesty butter garlic sauce. Remove hens from packaging, rinse with cold water and pat dry with paper towels. The olive oil will not stick to wet birds.
I like to add fresh herbs in the cavity, thyme, rosemary, and a bay leaf. Line a baking sheet or pan with parchment paper or foil. You can smoke them at 225° for longer than 60 minutes if you want. I like Waffle Party! – Cooking Games to increase the temperature in the final 20 to 30 minutes in order to get a nice brown crust on the skin.