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Cornish Hens Recipe In Oven

A beautifully roasted Cornish hen, golden-brown and fragrant, perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 Cornish hens about 1.5 pounds each
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 lemon halved
  • 4 cloves garlic smashed

Equipment

  • Roasting pan
  • Meat thermometer
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Basting brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
  3. Rub the hens all over with olive oil.
  4. Sprinkle the salt, pepper, garlic powder, rosemary, and thyme over each hen.
  5. Stuff the cavities of the hens with lemon halves and smashed garlic cloves.
  6. Place the hens breast side up in a roasting pan.
  7. Roast the hens for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  8. Remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Notes

Serve with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a light salad.