Are you craving a delicious, yet surprisingly quick and easy dinner? Look no further! This Cornish hen recipe takes inspiration from the culinary genius of Jamie Oliver, focusing on fresh, simple ingredients and straightforward techniques to deliver maximum flavor. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, proving that healthy meals can also be incredibly delicious and satisfying. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1 pound each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Cornish Hens
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the Cornish hens and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures crispy skin.
Step 2: Seasoning and Stuffing
Using your fingers, gently loosen the skin from the breast of each hen. Rub the olive oil under the skin and all over the hens. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity of each hen with half a lemon, 2 sprigs of rosemary, and 2 sprigs of thyme. Place the minced garlic on top of the hens.
Step 3: Roasting to Perfection
Place the hens in a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth and white wine (if using) into the bottom of the pan. This will create a flavorful base for the cooking liquid. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C). Basting the hens halfway through with the pan juices will help keep them moist and enhance their flavor.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Cornish Hen:
- Brining: For extra juicy and flavorful hens, consider brining them for a few hours before cooking.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like sage, oregano, or parsley.
- Vegetable Additions: Add chopped vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions to the roasting pan for a complete one-pan meal.
- Pan Sauce: After removing the hens, use the pan juices to create a delicious pan sauce. Simply strain the juices, then simmer on the stovetop until slightly thickened.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Butter: Create a compound butter with softened butter, lemon zest, and fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor. Spread it under the skin before roasting.
- Spicy Cornish Hen: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the seasoning for a spicier kick.
- Stuffing Variations: Try stuffing the hens with wild rice, cranberries, or sausage for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
This Cornish hen recipe is a wonderful example of how easy it is to create delicious and healthy meals at home. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. The combination of simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while the impressive flavor will make it a hit with family and friends. Enjoy!