Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This fried Cornish hen recipe is your answer. Crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering restaurant-quality results without the restaurant-quality hassle. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens (about 1 pound each), patted dry
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Begin by preparing your Cornish hens. Rinse them thoroughly and pat them completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures extra crispy skin.
Prepare the Dredging Station:
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). This is your flavorful dredging station.
Breading the Hens:
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In another shallow dish, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs. This mixture will help the flour adhere to the chicken, creating a beautiful, even coating.
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Dip each Cornish hen in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
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Next, dredge the buttermilk-coated hen in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the flour adheres well. Repeat this process for both hens. Make sure they are evenly coated.
Frying the Hens:
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Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small pinch of flour sizzles immediately.
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Carefully place the Cornish hens in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Frying in batches may be necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
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Fry the hens for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the hens from the skillet and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Let them rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
Tips for Perfect Fried Cornish Hens:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in greasy, not crispy, hens.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your Cornish hens are cooked through.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Serve with your favorite sides: These fried beauties pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Variations:
- Spicy Hens: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for extra heat.
- Herbed Hens: Add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the flour mixture for an aromatic twist.
- Lemon Herb Hens: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs to the buttermilk mixture before dredging.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
This fried Cornish hen recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a quick dinner idea that’s both delicious and satisfying. Enjoy!