Looking for a succulent dish that impresses? This cornish hen recipe is a perfect choice! The tender meat, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, makes for a delightful meal. Whether it’s a family gathering or a romantic dinner, this recipe will surely elevate your dining experience. Get ready to enjoy juicy, flavorful cornish hen served alongside vibrant vegetables that complement its richness beautifully.
Ingredients
– 2 Cornish hens
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, zucchini, asparagus)
– Fresh herbs for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of this cornish hen recipe contains roughly 350 calories, 25g protein, 20g fat, and 12g carbohydrates. This is based on a serving size of one half of a cornish hen.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cornish hens under cold water and pat dry.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture generously all over the hens, including under the skin.
5. Place the hens breast side up in a roasting pan.
6. Surround the hens with the mixed vegetables.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
8. Baste the hens with pan juices halfway through cooking.
9. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes.
10. Carve the hens and serve with the roasted vegetables.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to switch up the flavors, consider using different herbs like sage or oregano. You can also replace olive oil with melted butter for a richer taste. Additionally, feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.
Serving and Pairings
This cornish hen pairs wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes or quinoa. A fresh green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts can also complement the dish beautifully. For a wine pairing, a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc works well.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Cornish hen can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-wrapped.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking; check the temperature regularly.
– Don’t forget to baste for moisture.
– Ensure the hens are fully thawed before cooking.
– Use fresh herbs for better flavor.
– Allow resting time after cooking to retain juices.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan with vegetables; it can affect cooking.
Helpful Tips
– Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
– Experiment with different marinades for varied flavors.
– Always let your dish rest before serving to enhance flavor.
– For a crispy skin, finish under the broiler for a few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cornish hens?
Yes, you can use frozen cornish hens, but make sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking for even results.
What temperature should cornish hens be cooked to?
Cornish hens should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
How long should I cook cornish hens?
On average, cornish hens should be roasted for about 50-60 minutes at 400°F (200°C), depending on their size.
Can I cook cornish hens on a grill?
Absolutely! You can grill cornish hens over medium heat for about 40-50 minutes, turning occasionally for even cooking.
What sides go well with cornish hens?
Cornish hens pair well with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors.
Conclusion
This cornish hen recipe is a fantastic way to impress at your next dinner gathering. With its blend of herbs, juicy texture, and colorful vegetable sides, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy this dish, knowing you’ve created a culinary delight that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.
Cornish Hen Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 Cornish hens
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon juiced
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mixed vegetables carrots, zucchini, asparagus
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse the cornish hens under cold water and pat dry.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture generously all over the hens, including under the skin.
- Place the hens breast side up in a roasting pan.
- Surround the hens with the mixed vegetables.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Baste the hens with pan juices halfway through cooking.
- Once cooked, remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Carve the hens and serve with the roasted vegetables.