Cornish Hens with Garlic and Rosemary Recipe

Cornish Hens with Garlic and Rosemary is an elegant and flavorful dish that is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner. These small, tender birds are seasoned with aromatic garlic and fresh rosemary, resulting in a succulent meal that impresses without requiring extensive preparation. Serve them with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a delightful feast!

Ingredients List

For the Cornish Hens:

• 2 Cornish hens (about 1.5 lbs each)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried rosemary)
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

For Garnish:

• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Lemon wedges

Timing

Preparing Cornish Hens with Garlic and Rosemary takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 1 hour of cooking time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Hens

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Clean the Hens: Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Remove any giblets from the cavity.
3. Season the Hens: Generously season the inside and outside of each hen with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic and Rosemary Mixture

1. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary. Mix well to create a paste.

Step 3: Stuff and Coat the Hens

1. Stuff with Lemon: Place half a lemon inside the cavity of each hen.
2. Rub with Mixture: Rub the garlic and rosemary mixture all over the outside of the hens, ensuring even coverage.

Step 4: Roast the Hens

1. Place in Roasting Pan: Place the hens breast side up in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the hens moist during cooking.
2. Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear when pierced. Baste the hens with the pan juices halfway through cooking for extra flavor.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Rest the Hens: Once cooked, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This helps retain the juices.
2. Serve: Serve the Cornish hens on a platter, garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs and lemon wedges. Drizzle with pan juices for added flavor.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Cornish Hens with Garlic and Rosemary (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	360
Protein	38g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	2g
Fiber	0g
Sugar	0g

Tips for Customization

• Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs such as thyme, sage, or parsley for different flavor profiles.
• Add Vegetables: Surround the hens with root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions in the roasting pan for a complete meal.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic mixture for a hint of heat.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store any leftover Cornish hens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Cornish Hens with Garlic and Rosemary is a flavorful and impressive dish that is sure to delight your guests. The combination of tender meat and aromatic herbs creates a memorable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides for a truly satisfying dining experience!

FAQs

Can I prepare the hens ahead of time?

You can season the hens and prepare the garlic and rosemary mixture a few hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to roast.

How do I know when the hens are done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.

Can I use regular chickens instead of Cornish hens?

Yes, you can use regular chickens, but cooking times will vary. Adjust accordingly based on the size of the bird.

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