Cornish Game Hens with Garlic and Rosemary is a dish that blends rustic charm with gourmet elegance. Each small, tender bird is infused with the aromatic essence of fresh rosemary and the bold flavour of roasted garlic. This dish delivers a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for holidays, romantic dinners, or any occasion that calls for something special.
Cornish Game Hens with Garlic and Rosemary:
The beauty of Cornish hens lies in their simplicity—they cook faster than a full chicken yet deliver the same juicy tenderness and rich flavor. The combination of garlic, herbs, and a buttery glaze ensures each bite is savory, crisp, and satisfying. It’s a dish that turns an ordinary evening into an extraordinary dining experience.
History of Garlic and Rosemary:
Cornish Game Hens originated in the United States in the 1950s, a crossbreed of Cornish and White Rock chickens designed to produce a small, tender bird. Their popularity soared because they offered an elegant, portion-sized alternative to traditional chicken. Over time, recipes featuring herbs like rosemary, thyme, and garlic became the hallmark of this dish, turning it into a classic for holiday tables and fine dining alike.
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Cornish Game Hens with Garlic and Rosemary
Ingredients
- 2 Cornish game hens (about 1 ¼ lbs each)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, halved
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Hens: Rinse the Cornish hens and pat them dry. Season the cavities with salt, pepper, and a bit of rosemary.
- Add Aromatics: Place a garlic clove and a lemon wedge inside each hen.
- Brush with Butter and Oil: Combine melted butter, olive oil, remaining rosemary, and garlic. Brush the mixture over the hens generously.
- Roast: Place hens in a roasting pan. Add chicken broth and wine to the bottom of the pan.
- Cook: Roast for 55–65 minutes, basting occasionally, until the skin is golden and crisp, and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and lemon slices.
Notes
- Use fresh rosemary for the best aroma and flavour.
- Butter and olive oil together create a crisp, golden crust.
- For added richness, baste the hens halfway through roasting.
- Lemon juice adds brightness to balance the savory flavours.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Tips for Cornish Game Hens:
- Truss the hens (tie legs together) for even roasting.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
- Substitute white wine with apple cider or broth if preferred.
- Let the hens rest before carving to keep juices intact.
- For extra flavour, marinate overnight with herbs, garlic, and lemon.
FAQs for Hens with Garlic:
Q: Can I make this recipe with a regular chicken?
Yes, but increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes for a full-sized chicken.
Q: What can I use instead of rosemary?
Thyme or sage works beautifully as substitutes for rosemary.
Q: Can I cook Cornish hens in an air fryer?
Yes, at 375°F for about 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: How do I get crispy skin?
Pat the hens dry before roasting and brush with butter or oil for a golden finish.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and season the hens ahead, refrigerate, and roast just before serving.
Conclusion:
Cornish Game Hens with Garlic and Rosemary is a timeless recipe that delivers exquisite taste and presentation. With its herbaceous aroma, tender meat, and golden, crispy skin, it’s a dish that captures the essence of fine dining with minimal effort. Whether for an intimate dinner or festive celebration, this meal guarantees sophistication and satisfaction in every bite.