Cornish hens, also known as Rock Cornish hens, are a type of small chicken that weigh no more than 2 pounds each. They are known for their tender texture and delicious taste, making them a favorite for special occasions. If you’re looking for an elegant and easy-to-prepare meal, Cornish hens are the perfect choice. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook Cornish hens to perfection, and answer some frequently asked questions about this delicious dish.
Preparing Cornish Hens
Before you start cooking your Cornish hens, you need to properly prepare them. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Remove the packaging and pat the hens dry with paper towels.
2. Remove the giblets from the cavity and discard.
3. Rinse the hens under cold running water to clean the cavity and the skin.
4. Let the hens drain on a paper towel or a roasting rack.
5. If using a recipe that calls for seasoning or marinating the hens, do so at this stage.
How To Cook Cornish Hens
Now that your Cornish hens are clean and seasoned, it’s time to cook them. There are several ways to cook Cornish hens, including roasting, grilling or cooking them in a crockpot or Instant Pot. Below is a step-by-step guide for roasting Cornish hens.
Roasting Cornish Hens
Ingredients:
– 2 Cornish hens
– Cooking oil or butter
– Salt and pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Place the Cornish hens on a roasting pan with a rack.
3. Brush the hens with melted butter or cooking oil, and season with salt and pepper. You can also use your favorite seasoning blends to add more flavor.
4. Roast the hens in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Remove the hens from the oven and let them cool for 5-10 minutes before carving and serving.
Grilling Cornish Hens
Ingredients:
– 2 Cornish hens
– Cooking oil or butter
– Salt and pepper
– BBQ sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Clean the grates with a grill brush to remove any debris.
3. Brush the Cornish hens with melted butter or cooking oil, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the hens on the grill with the breast side down and cook for 10-12 minutes.
5. Flip the hens over and continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Brush the hens with BBQ sauce (optional) and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Cornish Hens in a Crockpot
Ingredients:
– 2 Cornish hens
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Cooking oil or butter
– Salt and pepper
Instructions:
1. Rinse the Cornish hens under cold running water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Grease the slow cooker with cooking oil or butter.
3. Season the hens with salt and pepper, and place them in the slow cooker.
4. Pour chicken broth over the hens.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Remove the hens from the slow cooker and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Cornish Hens in an Instant Pot
Ingredients:
– 2 Cornish hens
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Cooking oil or butter
– Salt and pepper
Instructions:
1. Rinse the Cornish hens under cold running water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “saute” function.
3. Grease the Instant Pot with cooking oil or butter.
4. Season the hens with salt and pepper, and place them in the Instant Pot.
5. Pour chicken broth over the hens.
6. Close the Instant Pot and select the “pressure cook” function for 25-30 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure.
8. Remove the hens from the Instant Pot and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before carving and serving.
FAQs
1. Can you cook Cornish hens ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook Cornish hens ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
2. How long does it take to cook Cornish hens?
The cooking time for Cornish hens depends on the cooking method and the size of the hens. Roasting and grilling typically take 45-60 minutes, while using a slow cooker or Instant Pot can take up to 8 hours.
3. How do you know when Cornish hens are done?
The internal temperature of the Cornish hens should reach 165°F to ensure they are cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature by inserting it into the thickest part of the hens.
4. What sides go well with Cornish hens?
Cornish hens pair well with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad.
5. Can you freeze Cornish hens?
Yes, you can freeze Cornish hens for up to 6 months. To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
