cornish game hen thanksgiving recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best cornish game hen thanksgiving recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite Cornish game hen Thanksgiving recipe! This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion. The story behind this recipe begins in the southwest of England, where the Cornish game hen originated.

These small birds are known for their rich flavor and tender texture, making them a delight to cook and eat. When I first tried cooking Cornish game hens, I was amazed by how easy they were to prepare and how delicious they turned out. My family loves them, and they’re always a hit at family gatherings.

One of the key techniques in cooking Cornish game hens is to stuff them with aromatics and herbs, which infuses the meat with incredible flavor. This technique is simple yet effective, and it’s what makes this dish so special. Over time, I’ve experimented with different seasonings and spices to create my own unique flavor profile.

I’ve found that a combination of thyme, rosemary, and garlic creates a rich and savory flavor that complements the natural taste of the birds. In addition to being incredibly flavorful, Cornish game hens are also very healthy. They’re low in fat and high in protein, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how quickly these birds cook and how easy they are to serve. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just looking for a new dinner idea, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Herb-Roasted Cornish Game Hens with Lemon and Garlic

4.9 from 636 votes

A festive and flavorful Cornish game hen recipe perfect for Thanksgiving. These hens are stuffed with lemon and garlic, then roasted to golden perfection.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 5mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cornish Game Hens

4 Cornish game hens
1 lemon, quartered
4 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Pan Sauce

1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2Place the rack in the middle of the oven.
3Pat the hens dry with paper towels.
4Season the hens inside and out with salt and pepper.
5Place a quarter of the lemon, a couple of garlic cloves, rosemary, and thyme in the cavity of each hen.
6Rub the outside of each hen with olive oil.
7Place the hens breast side up in a roasting pan.
8Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
9After 20 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
10Continue roasting for 25-30 minutes, or until the juices run clear and the skin is golden brown.
11Remove the hens from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter.
12Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm.
13Place the roasting pan over medium-high heat on the stovetop.
14Add white wine and chicken broth to the pan, stirring to deglaze and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
15Bring the mixture to a boil.
16In a small bowl, mix together Dijon mustard, cornstarch, and water.
17Stir this mixture into the pan sauce.
18Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
19Spoon the pan sauce over the hens before serving.

🔧Equipment

Roasting pan
Basting brush
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Kitchen knife
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 125mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 5g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add additional vegetables to the roasting pan for a complete meal. Carrots, potatoes, and onions work well with this recipe. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Watch Video Of How Herb-Roasted Cornish Game Hens with Lemon and Garlic Works

I love serving these birds at family gatherings because they’re so easy to serve – just carve them up and serve on a platter!

They’re also incredibly versatile – you can serve them with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Herb-Roasted Cornish Game Hens with Lemon and Garlic

Q: What is a Cornish game hen?

A: A Cornish game hen is a small bird that originated in the southwest of England. It’s typically around 1-2 pounds in weight and has a rich, savory flavor.

Q: How do I cook Cornish game hens?

A: Cooking Cornish game hens is relatively simple. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), season the birds with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices, and then roast them in the oven for about 45-60 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I cook Cornish game hens on the stovetop?

A: While it’s possible to cook Cornish game hens on the stovetop, I find that roasting them in the oven yields better results.

Q: Are Cornish game hens healthy?

A: Yes, Cornish game hens are relatively healthy compared to other types of poultry. They’re low in fat and high in protein, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Q: How long do cooked Cornish game hens last in the fridge?

A: Cooked Cornish game hens can last for up to 3 days in the fridge when stored properly.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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