These Herbed Cornish Hens are a delightful and elegant dish perfect for a special dinner or holiday feast. The hens are marinated in a fragrant blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon, which infuses the meat with a deep, savory flavor. As they roast, the skin becomes perfectly crispy while the meat stays tender and juicy. The combination of rosemary, thyme, and sage gives these hens a classic, comforting taste that pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or an intimate dinner, these herbed Cornish hens are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1.5 pounds each)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and quartered
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a paste.
- Marinate the Hens: Pat the Cornish hens dry with paper towels. Rub the herb mixture all over the hens, making sure to coat them evenly, including under the skin for extra flavor. Place the hens in a large dish or resealable plastic bag, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for a deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the hens out of the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Stuff the Hens: Place a lemon quarter inside each hen’s cavity. This adds a subtle citrus flavor and helps keep the meat moist.
- Roast the Hens: Place the hens on a roasting pan, breast side up. Pour the chicken broth and white wine (if using) into the bottom of the pan. Roast the hens in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Baste the hens occasionally with the pan juices to keep them moist.
- Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
This recipe serves 4 people, with each hen being enough for 2 servings.
