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HOW TO COOK CORNISH HENS AKA BAKED WHOLE CHICKEN

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Peach McIntyre
Peach McIntyre
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Recipe Information

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Video-Specific Recipe

Baked Cornish Hens

Cultural Context

Baked Cornish Hens are a classic American dish often served during special occasions and holiday gatherings. These small, tender birds are prized for their rich flavor and elegant presentation. Traditionally, they are roasted whole and served with seasonal vegetables, making them a favorite for festive dinners. Today, variations abound, with many home cooks experimenting with different herbs and spices to enhance the dish's appeal.

AmericanUSmain
90 min
medium
4 servings
Servings4
2 cornish hens
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
4 cloves garlic
2 sprigs rosemary
2 sprigs thyme
1 lemon
1 onion
2 carrots
2 potatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons parsley

Quantities are estimated based on standard recipes for your convenience. The actual ingredients used in this video are accurate.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier and adds flavor.

chicken broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water + bouillon

Vegetable broth is lower in calories.

potatoes

🥗Healthier: sweet potatoes

💰Cheaper: yams

Sweet potatoes are nutritious and flavorful.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a high smoke point.

1

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2

Rinse the cornish hens under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

3

Rub olive oil all over the hens, ensuring even coverage.

4

Season the hens generously with salt and black pepper, inside and out.

5

Stuff the cavity of each hen with garlic, rosemary, thyme, and lemon wedges.

6

Place the hens breast-side up in a roasting pan.

7

Surround the hens with chopped onion, carrots, and potatoes.

8

Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the hens moist.

9

Sprinkle paprika over the hens for color and flavor.

10

Dot the hens with butter for added richness.

11

Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.

12

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.

13

Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.

14

Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before carving.

15

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Cooking Techniques

seasoningroasting

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Allergens

milkwheat

Also Known As

Roast Cornish HensCornish Game Hens

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