Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly quick dinner? Look no further! This recipe for air fryer Cornish game hens delivers juicy, flavorful birds with crispy skin in a fraction of the time it takes to roast them in the oven. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights, impressing guests, or simply enjoying a satisfying homemade meal. This easy recipe is perfect for anyone looking for quick dinner ideas or delicious dishes without compromising on taste or nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish game hens (about 1 pound each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Hens
Pat the Cornish game hens dry with paper towels. This helps achieve extra crispy skin.
Step 2: Season Generously
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub this mixture all over the hens, ensuring they're evenly coated.
Step 3: Stuff with Herbs and Lemon
Place a lemon quarter and a few sprigs of rosemary and thyme inside the cavity of each hen.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the hens in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't overcrowded. Air fry for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size of your hens and your air fryer model.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
Cooking Tips for Air Fryer Cornish Game Hens:
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Ensure proper air circulation for even cooking. If necessary, cook the hens in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure the hens are cooked through.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick!
- For extra crispy skin: Increase the air fryer temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Butter: Create a flavorful compound butter by mixing softened butter with lemon zest, minced garlic, and fresh herbs. Spread this under the skin of the hens before cooking.
- Citrus Glaze: Brush the hens with a mixture of orange juice, honey, and soy sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory glaze.
- Spicy Rub: Add chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to the seasoning mixture for a spicy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This air fryer Cornish game hen recipe is a testament to how easy and delicious healthy meals can be. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!