Cornish Game Hen Recipe
This Cornish game hen recipe is an easy, classic way to roast tender, juicy hens over a bed of carrots, onion, and fresh thyme. Seasoned with garlic, butter, and herbs, the birds roast beautifully at high heat for golden skin and rich flavor. Perfect for a cozy dinner, holiday meal, or an impressive yet simple main dish.
Equipment
- 1 Dutch oven or raosting pan
Ingredients
- 2 small cornish game hens (about 1-1/2 pounds each)
- 3 tbs olive oil or softened butter
- 3 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 onion, cut into 1 inch chunks
- 5 carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1-1 1/2 cups water
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and hens: Preheat the oven to 400°F and pat the Cornish game hens completely dry with paper towels.
- Make the seasoning mixture: In a small bowl, combine olive oil (or softened butter), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Season the hens: Gently loosen the skin over the breast and thighs. Rub most of the seasoning mixture underneath the skin, then rub the remaining mixture over the outside of the birds.
- Prepare the vegetables: Layer the onion chunks, smashed garlic, and carrot pieces in the bottom of a Dutch oven or roasting pan. Add the fresh thyme sprigs.
- Add hens: Place the seasoned hens on top of the vegetables.
- Add water: Pour in enough water to cover the vegetables without submerging the hens.
- Roast uncovered for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Optional (for crispier skin): Broil for 3–5 minutes at the end of cooking until the skin is golden brown.
- Rest for 10 minutes before serving.