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Cooking has a way of bringing back memories, doesn’t it? These cornish hen recipes take me right back to my grandmother’s kitchen, and I’m so excited to share them with you today. With tender, juicy meat and endless flavor possibilities, these recipes are perfect for any occasion. So, let’s get ready to impress your guests and create some amazing moments around the dinner table!
Garlic Herb Cornish Hens
Juicy and flavorful, this dish is a true classic.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rub the hens with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Roast in the oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Make it Unique:
Add a splash of lemon juice for a zesty twist!
Maple-Glazed Cornish Hens
Sweet and savory, this recipe brings a delightful blend of flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon thyme
Process:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix maple syrup, mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper, then brush over hens.
- Roast for 45 minutes, basting every 15 minutes.
- Serve warm with leftover glaze.
Make it Unique:
Try adding a hint of chipotle for a spicy kick!
Stuffed Cornish Hens
A comforting dish that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens
- 2 cups bread cubes
- ½ onion, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sage
Process:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté onion and celery, then mix with bread cubes, broth, and sage to create stuffing.
- Stuff the hens and roast for 1 hour.
- Allow to rest before carving.
Make it Unique:
Swap the bread for wild rice for a heartier stuffing!
Lemon-Thyme Cornish Hens
Bright and refreshing, perfect for a summer gathering!
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens
- 2 lemons, zested and juiced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh thyme sprigs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix lemon juice, zest, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper, then brush over the hens.
- Roast for 1 hour or until cooked through.
- Garnish with lemon slices.
Make it Unique:
Add capers for that briny punch!
Barbecue Cornish Hens
Get ready for a smoky, finger-licking delight!
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Season hens with salt and pepper, then brush with barbecue sauce.
- Grill for 30–35 minutes, turning frequently.
- Brush with more sauce before serving.
Make it Unique:
Experiment with different barbecue sauce flavors like honey mustard or spicy chipotle!
Cornish Hens with Mushrooms
Earthy and rich, a perfect meal for mushroom lovers!
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- In a pot, melt butter and sauté mushrooms until golden.
- Add hens and broth, bring to a simmer.
- Cover and let cook for 45 minutes.
- Serve with sauce poured over.
Make it Unique:
Add cream for a luxurious touch!
Moroccan-Spiced Cornish Hens
A flavorful journey in every bite!
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons coriander
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix spices, rub over hens, season with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 50 minutes, basting occasionally.
- Garnish with almonds and dried apricots.
Make it Unique:
Serve with couscous for a complete meal!
Cornish Hens Coq au Vin
A rustic favorite with French flair!
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens
- 1 bottle of red wine
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 cup pearl onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- In a large pot, sear the hens until browned.
- Add wine, carrots, onions, and seasoning, simmer for 1 hour.
- Serve with sauce over hens.
Make it Unique:
Try chicken stock instead of wine for a lighter dish!
Honey Mustard Glazed Cornish Hens
Sweet and tangy, this dish is a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix honey, mustard, salt, and pepper, brush on hens.
- Roast for 45 minutes, basting halfway through.
- Serve warm, sprinkled with sesame seeds.
Make it Unique:
Add chopped fresh herbs for extra flavor!
Italian Herb Cornish Hens
Savory and aromatic, perfect for Italian cuisine fans!
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rub the hens with olive oil and garlic, then coat with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 1 hour, checking for doneness.
- Rest and serve with roasted veggies.
Make it Unique:
Top with grated Parmesan for an added touch!
Citrus Cornish Hens
Bright and vibrant, this recipe sings with zest!
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens
- 2 oranges, zested and juiced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix orange juice, zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper, brushing it on the hens.
- Roast for 50 minutes or until done.
- Serve garnished with orange slices.
Make it Unique:
Use grapefruit for a twist!
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Cornish Hens
A delightful spin on the classic stuffed hen!
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup cooked rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix spinach, feta, rice, salt, and pepper for stuffing.
- Fill the hens and roast for 1 hour.
- Serve with extra stuffing on the side.
Make it Unique:
Add sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor boost!
Conclusion
There you have it—15 amazing cornish hen recipes that are sure to impress your guests and bring warmth to your table! Whether you’re looking for something classic or eager to try a new flavor, these recipes will not disappoint. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and let your kitchen be filled with wonderful aromas. Happy cooking!