Baked Cornish Game Hens Recipe

Cornish game hens: Small, tender birds that are perfect for individual servings.

Olive oil: Used to coat the hens, helping the seasoning stick and the skin to crisp up.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the hens.

Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.

Garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor without the moisture of fresh garlic.

Paprika: Adds a mild sweetness and vibrant color to the hens.

Dried thyme: Offers a hint of earthy, herbal flavor that complements the other seasonings.

When preparing cornish game hens, ensure to rinse and pat them dry thoroughly. This step is crucial as it helps the olive oil and seasonings adhere better to the skin, resulting in a more flavorful and crispy exterior. Additionally, consider trussing the hens by tying the legs together with kitchen twine. This helps the birds cook more evenly and maintain their shape during baking.

• cornish game hens - Substitute with small chickens: Small chickens can be used as they have a similar size and texture, making them a suitable replacement for Cornish game hens.

• olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it a good alternative to olive oil for roasting.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in place of regular salt as it provides a similar level of seasoning with a slightly different mineral content.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as it offers a similar heat and flavor profile, though it is slightly milder and less pungent.

• garlic powder - Substitute with granulated garlic: Granulated garlic has a similar flavor and can be used in the same quantity as garlic powder.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a similar color and a smoky depth of flavor, enhancing the dish in a different but complementary way.

• dried thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano can be used as it has a similar earthy and slightly minty flavor, making it a good alternative to dried thyme.

• Allow the Cornish game hens to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
• Wrap each hen individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped hens in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, place in the freezer where they can last up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw frozen hens in the refrigerator overnight. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the hens in a baking dish, and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• For a crispier skin, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of reheating.

• Oven Reheating:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover Cornish game hens in a baking dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
  4. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the skin.

• Microwave Reheating:

  1. Cut the hens into smaller pieces to ensure even heating.
  2. Place the pieces on a microwave-safe plate.
  3. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent drying out.
  4. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking and turning the pieces halfway through.
  5. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

• Stovetop Reheating:

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil or chicken broth.
  2. Place the hens in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  3. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even heating.
  4. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

• Air Fryer Reheating:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the hens in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  4. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

• Sous Vide Reheating:

  1. Preheat your sous vide water bath to 165°F (74°C).
  2. Place the hens in a vacuum-sealed bag or a resealable bag using the water displacement method.
  3. Submerge the bag in the water bath and heat for about 45 minutes.
  4. Remove from the bag and, if desired, sear in a hot skillet for a crispy finish.

• Oven: To preheat and bake the Cornish game hens at the required temperature.

• Paper towels: To pat the hens dry after rinsing them.

• Baking dish: To place the hens in for baking.

• Meat thermometer: To check that the internal temperature of the hens reaches 165°F (74°C).

• Basting brush: To rub the hens with olive oil.

• Measuring spoons: To measure out the salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme.

• Tongs: To handle the hens without piercing the skin.

• Cutting board: To place the hens on while seasoning them.

• Knife: To trim any excess fat or skin from the hens if necessary.

• Serving platter: To let the hens rest and serve them after baking.

Pre-mix the seasoning: Combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme in a small bowl ahead of time.

Use a roasting rack: Elevate the hens on a roasting rack to ensure even cooking and to save time on flipping.

Prep the hens in advance: Rinse and pat dry the hens the night before, then store them in the fridge.

Line the baking dish: Use aluminum foil or parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy cleanup.

Check temperature early: Start checking the internal temperature at 50 minutes to avoid overcooking.