Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! These grilled Cornish game hens are a fantastic option for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Tender, juicy meat with a beautifully crisp skin – it's a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly easy to achieve. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, and even beginner cooks will find it incredibly straightforward. Let's dive into this amazing homemade cooking experience!
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish game hens (about 1 pound each), giblets removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley), for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Game Hens:
- Rinse and pat dry: Rinse the Cornish game hens thoroughly under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the hens: Place the game hens in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are evenly coated. Allow them to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
Grilling the Game Hens:
- Preheat your grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). Clean the grates thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Grill the hens: Place the marinated Cornish game hens on the preheated grill. Grill for about 20-25 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. This ensures the meat is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the game hens from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for garnish.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Cornish Game Hens:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Ensure there's enough space between the game hens to allow for even cooking and browning.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure the hens are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your game hens and the heat of your grill. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Brining (optional): For extra juicy hens, consider brining them overnight in a saltwater solution before marinating.
Variations:
- Spicy Game Hens: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or oregano.
- Citrus Infusion: Add orange or grapefruit zest to the marinade for a brighter citrus flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavor and convenience, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and delicious dishes. Enjoy your perfectly grilled Cornish game hens!