FAQs
Roast, uncovered, basting frequently with butter for 1 hour (if hen weighs over 1lb 2oz, roast 1 hour and 15 minutes) or until internal temperature on instant read thermometer reaches 180°F when inserted into inner thigh.
At what temperature are Cornish hens done? ›
An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, near the bone, should read 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Remove from the oven, cover with a doubled sheet of aluminum foil, and allow to rest in a warm area for 10 minutes before slicing.
What is the best way to eat cornish hens? ›
Because of their small size, Cornish hens are perfect as a serving for one person or split in half when served with some delicious sides. I love pairing this easy roasted Cornish hen recipe with my Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes; Italian Oven Roasted Vegetables; or Brussels sprouts... Lots more ideas below!
Why are Cornish hens so good? ›
A lot of the best qualities of a great roast chicken are accentuated in Cornish hens. Their flavor is often described as rich and moist with a hint of sweetness. Because they're harvested so young, Cornish hens' meat is exceptionally tender. Their high skin-to-meat ratio makes them remarkably succulent too.
Do you clean out Cornish hens before cooking? ›
Do not rinse the skin or cavity of the bird, as doing so may spread bacteria in the sink and on the countertop. Once defrosted, remove bird from packaging and pat dry with a paper towel. Remove giblet bag from cavity and reserve for making sauces, etc.
How do you get the gamey taste out of Cornish hens? ›
The distinct game flavor of either birds or animals will be milder after soaking the meat overnight in the refrigerator in either a salt or vinegar solution. 2. Vinegar solution - 1 cup per quart of cold water. Use enough solution to cover the game completely.
How do you tell if a Cornish hen is done without a thermometer? ›
Stick a fork into the thigh. If the juice runs clear it's done. If it's pink it's not done. Carefully pierce the meatiest portion to its center and with the tines of fork if the juices run clear then it's safe to eat.
Do Cornish hens need to be thawed before cooking? ›
You should use the hens 1-2 days after thawing. You can thaw cornish hens in their packaging in a sink full of cold water 4-6 hours before cooking.
How many Cornish hens can I cook at once? ›
Lay a wire rack in the bottom of a big roasting pan and place 6 Cornish game hens on it. If you don't have a wire rack that fits the pan, bunch up a few pieces of aluminum foil and place these on the bottom of the pan. You can easily cut this recipe in half or a third if you only want to make 2 or 3 hens.
Is Cornish hen healthier than regular chicken? ›
Nutrition. Cornish hens' adolescence also contributes to a lower fat content. Since they are comprised of primarily white meat, Cornish hens are very lean and rich in niacin, which can help lower cholesterol and boost brain function.
Why are Cornish hens so expensive? Part of the price is due to its decades-old reputation as an exotic new bird (though it really isn't). It's been marketed as a fancy alternative to chicken and so manufacturer's can get away with charging such a steep price.
Can one person eat a whole Cornish hen? ›
Cornish Hens are just baby chickens but they taste completely different. They present really well when serving and cook in a short period of time. I like serving them for dinner parties or for the holidays. Typically 1/2 a Cornish hen is enough for one person but someone with a good appetite could eat a whole one.
What is the purpose of a rack in a roasting pan when preparing Cornish hens? ›
Roasting Cornish hens on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet also helps elevate the birds so that the thighs cook as quickly as the breasts. Cornish hens are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh and their juices run clear.
What temperature is a Cornish hen breast done? ›
Remove the hens once they reach 165 °F (74 °C).
The temperature should read at least 165 °F (74 °C) before you take the hens out of the oven. Stuffed Cornish game hens may take an extra 20 to 30 minutes to roast.