cornish game hen thanksgiving recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best cornish game hen thanksgiving recipe

I’m so excited to share this recipe with you, as it’s a game-changer for any occasion. The Cornish game hen is a staple in many households, and for good reason. It’s a perfect dish for a family gathering or even a casual weeknight dinner.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort, yet it’s packed with flavor and nutrients. I love how the crispy skin gives way to juicy meat, and the herbs add just the right amount of zest.

My kids can’t get enough of it, and I’m sure your family will love it just as much. Plus, it’s a great way to get some lean protein into your diet without feeling like you’re sacrificing on flavor or convenience. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it never fails to impress.

Whether you’re serving it with roasted veggies or mashed potatoes, it’s sure to be a hit. And the best part? It’s ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.

So go ahead, give this recipe a try – I promise you won’t be disappointed! I’ve always been fascinated by the history behind this dish, which originated in Cornwall, England. Apparently, game hens were popular among the local fishermen due to their portability and ease of cooking over an open flame.

Today, we can enjoy this delicious bird with minimal effort and maximum flavor. I’ve experimented with various seasonings over the years, but my favorite combination is still good old-fashioned herbs like thyme and rosemary. There’s something about the way they complement the natural flavors of the meat that just can’t be beat.

Herb Roasted Cornish Game Hens for Thanksgiving

Herb Roasted Cornish Game Hens for Thanksgiving

4.8 from 1297 votes

These individual Cornish game hens are a perfect alternative to a large turkey, offering a personal and elegant main course for Thanksgiving. Each bird is seasoned with a fragrant herb butter and roasted until the skin is golden and crispy while the meat stays juicy and tender.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time1 hour
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 20 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 520 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Hens

4 Cornish game hens, about 1.5 pounds each
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 lemon, quartered
4 sprigs fresh thyme
4 sprigs fresh rosemary

For the Herb Butter

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position a rack in the middle.
2Pat the Cornish game hens dry with paper towels, inside and out, to ensure crispy skin.
3Season the cavities and the outside of each hen generously with the kosher salt and black pepper.
4In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped sage, thyme leaves, chopped rosemary, minced garlic, and lemon zest until well blended.
5Gently loosen the skin over the breast of each hen and rub about 1 tablespoon of the herb butter under the skin, then spread the remaining butter over the outside of the hens.
6Place a lemon quarter and a sprig of thyme and rosemary inside the cavity of each hen.
7Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body to promote even cooking.
8Arrange the hens breast-side up in a large roasting pan, leaving space between them.
9Roast the hens in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, then baste them with the pan juices.
10Continue roasting for another 15 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
11Remove the roasting pan from the oven and let the hens rest for 10 minutes, loosely covered with foil, to allow the juices to redistribute.
12Serve each hen whole, drizzled with pan juices, as a beautiful and delicious Thanksgiving main course.

🔧Equipment

Large roasting pan
Small bowl
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Kitchen twine
Meat thermometer
Basting brush

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 520 kcal🧈Total Fat: 32g💛Saturated Fat: 15g❤️Cholesterol: 210mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 2g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 0g🥩Protein: 52g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the roasting pan before roasting. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, brush the hens with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the hens are cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Watch Video Of How Herb Roasted Cornish Game Hens for Thanksgiving Works

After the meal, store any leftover hens in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350 degree oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

You can also shred the meat and use it in sandwiches, salads, or soups for an easy next-day lunch. For serving, I love to place each hen on a dinner plate with a spoonful of pan juices drizzled over the top.

You can also garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for a pretty touch. Whether it is Thanksgiving, a holiday dinner, or just a special Sunday meal, these Cornish game hens always feel like a celebration.

They are simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests, and my family asks for them year round. I hope you try this recipe and make it your own tradition.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Herb Roasted Cornish Game Hens for Thanksgiving

Q: What is a Cornish game hen?

A: A Cornish game hen is a type of domesticated chicken that weighs between 1-2 pounds and is typically served whole.

Q: Can I use any type of chicken for this recipe?

A: While you can use other types of chicken, a Cornish game hen is preferred due to its smaller size and more delicate flavor.

Q: How long does it take to cook a Cornish game hen?

A: Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your bird, but generally speaking, you can expect around 30-40 minutes for a small bird.

Q: Can I prep this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prep your seasonings and marinade the bird up to 24 hours in advance.

Q: What are some good sides to serve with this recipe?

A: Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts pair perfectly with this dish.

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