Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy meal? Then look no further! This slow-cooked Cornish hen recipe is your answer. Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, requiring minimal effort for maximum deliciousness. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this simple yet elegant recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 (1-1.5 lb) Cornish hen, giblets removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, quartered
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Hen
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Pat the Cornish hen dry with paper towels. This helps it brown nicely.
Step 2: Season and Stuff
In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Rub the mixture all over the hen, ensuring it's evenly coated. Stuff the cavity of the hen with the chopped onion, minced garlic, and lemon quarters.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Place the hen in a small oven-safe dish. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the dish. Cover the dish tightly with foil.
Step 4: Oven Time
Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and cook for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the hen reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the hen from the oven and let it rest for 10 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 Slow Cooked Cornish Hen:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure enough space for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure the hen is cooked through.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Consider adding a pinch of paprika or a bay leaf for extra depth of flavor.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve your Cornish hen with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Cornish Hen: Increase the amount of lemon and herbs for a brighter, more citrusy flavor.
- Spicy Cornish Hen: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning blend for a spicy kick.
- Apple and Sage Cornish Hen: Stuff the hen with chopped apples and fresh sage for a fall-inspired twist. This is a delicious and easy recipe for a cozy autumn meal.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Around 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This slow-cooked Cornish hen recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It’s a delicious dish that's perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Try it today and discover a new favorite!