Are you looking for a delicious and healthy weeknight meal that's also incredibly easy to prepare? Look no further! This air fryer Cornish hen recipe delivers juicy, flavorful birds with crispy skin in a fraction of the time it takes to roast them in the oven. It's the perfect example of quick dinner ideas done right, a true testament to the power of homemade cooking. This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, offering a simple yet elegant dish that's sure to impress. Get ready to experience the best recipes for a truly satisfying meal!
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1 pound each), patted dry
- 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
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cornish hens: Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Dry skin is crucial for achieving crispy skin in the air fryer.
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Season generously: In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub this mixture all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
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Stuff the hens (optional): Place a lemon quarter and a sprig of rosemary and thyme inside the cavity of each hen. This adds extra flavor and aroma.
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Air fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned Cornish hens in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. If necessary, cook in batches.
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Cook to perfection: 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 depending on the size of your hens and your air fryer model.
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Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the Cornish hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
Tips for Air Fryer Cornish Hens:
- Patting the hens dry is key: This helps the skin crisp up beautifully.
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: This ensures even cooking and crispy skin.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure the hens are cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Experiment with herbs and spices: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to your liking. Italian seasoning, herbes de Provence, or even a simple lemon pepper seasoning would all be delicious.
Variations:
- Citrus Burst: Add orange slices along with the lemon for a brighter citrus flavor.
- Spicy Hens: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped chili flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Lovers: Add a few cloves of minced garlic to the seasoning or place garlic cloves inside the cavity of the hens.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This easy recipe for air fryer Cornish hens is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and delicious dishes. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy!