This recipe for roasted Cornish hen ensures you get succulent and juicy hens everytime. Its perfect for holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas or for a meal with family and friends.
Course Dinner, holidays, lunch, main, Main Course, thanksgiving
Cuisine American, dinner, holidays
Servings 4serves
Calories 389kcal
Ingredients
2wholeCornish Hens
2TablespoonsOlive Oil
1TablespoonKosher Salt
1TablespoonDried Thyme
1TablespoonDried Rosemary
1TeaspoonGarlic Powder
1TeaspoonSmoked Paprika
1/2TeaspoonBlack Pepper
Optional: Lemon Wedges For Serving
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pat the Cornish hens dry with paper towels and place them on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan.
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil per hen and rub to coat evenly. Combine the kosher salt, dried thyme, dried rosemary, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper in a small bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture all over the hens, including inside the cavity.
For added flavor, place lemon wedges or a sprig of rosemary and thyme inside each cavity.
Roast the hens in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured in the thickest part of the thigh.
Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite side dishes and garnish with additional lemon wedges if desired.