French Cornish Hen Recipe

2 min read 19-02-2025

French Cornish Hen Recipe

Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something elegant yet effortlessly simple? Look no further than this French Cornish Hen recipe! This dish is bursting with flavour, surprisingly quick to make, and perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both delicious and easy. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this culinary gem!

Ingredients:

  • 2 Cornish hens (about 1 pound each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

Preparing the Cornish Hens:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the Cornish hens thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. This simple step helps achieve crispy skin.

  2. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Generously rub this mixture all over the hens, both inside and out. Seasoning generously ensures every bite is full of flavour.

Roasting the Cornish Hens:

  1. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the hens for about 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring they are nicely browned for a beautiful presentation. This step also adds depth of flavour.

  2. Pour the white wine and chicken broth into the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.

  3. Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the hens reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Use a meat thermometer for accurate results. Don't rush this step – allowing enough cooking time ensures juicy and tender meat.

Finishing Touches:

  1. Remove the skillet from the oven and stir in the Dijon mustard. Let the hens rest for 5-10 minutes before carving and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.

  2. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. A simple garnish elevates the dish’s visual appeal.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Cornish Hens:

  • For extra crispy skin: Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 10 minutes of cooking.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the hens for even browning and cooking. If necessary, cook them in batches.
  • Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure your Cornish hens are cooked through.

Variations:

  • Lemon Herb Cornish Hens: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the herb mixture.
  • Garlic and Herb Cornish Hens: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the herb mixture.
  • Spicy Cornish Hens: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a kick.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

  • Calories: Approximately 350-400
  • Protein: Approximately 35-40g
  • Fat: Approximately 20-25g

This French Cornish Hen recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. The combination of herbs and the rich flavour of the hen makes this one of the best recipes you'll try. Enjoy!

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