Perfectly Juicy Roasted Cornish Hens for Elegant Dinners

Savor the flavor of Roasted Cornish Hens with crisp skin and juicy meat, perfect for elegant dinners.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 50

Resting Time 10

Total Time 1 15

Servings: 4 hens

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Hens

2 whole Cornish hens Opt for fresh for best flavor.
2 tablespoons Olive oil Melted butter can be a substitute.
1 tablespoon Salt Kosher salt preferred.
1 teaspoon Black pepper

For the Seasoning

1 teaspoon Paprika Smoky paprika adds depth.
3 cloves Minced garlic Garlic powder is a substitute.
2 tablespoons Chopped rosemary Fresh preferred, dried is okay.

For the Filling

1 whole Lemon Sliced, limes are a great substitute.

For Browning

2 tablespoons Butter Unsalted preferred.

Equipment

roasting pan
meat thermometer
Paper towels

Method

Cooking Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C).
Pat the Cornish hens dry on all sides.
Drizzle olive oil over each hen, massage into the skin, and season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary.
Tuck lemon slices and sprigs of rosemary into each hen's cavity.
Position the hens breast-side up in a roasting pan on a rack.
Dot each hen with small pats of unsalted butter.
Roast the hens for 45–55 minutes and baste midway through. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once done, let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with freshly chopped rosemary and a squeeze of lemon before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1henCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 35gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 450mgVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure hens are completely dry for perfect crisp skin. Use a thermometer to check doneness. Store leftovers properly to maintain flavor.

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