Prepare to transform your dinner table with a show-stopping dish that will have your guests begging for the recipe! These herb butter Cornish hens are not just a meal; they're a culinary experience that combines the most succulent poultry with a luxurious herb-infused butter that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner for two or an impressive dinner party centerpiece, this recipe promises restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 Cornish hens
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove Cornish hens from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, chopped parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Mix thoroughly until herbs are evenly distributed throughout the butter.
- Pat Cornish hens dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- Gently loosen the skin of each hen with your fingers, being careful not to tear it.
- Spread half of the herb butter mixture underneath the skin of each hen, massaging it evenly across the breast and thigh meat.
- Rub the remaining herb butter over the outside of the hens.
- Season both hens generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, both inside and outside.
- Place hens breast-side up in a roasting pan or cast-iron skillet, ensuring they are not touching.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when a meat thermometer is inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.
- If the skin browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.
Tips
- • Room Temperature Magic: Always let your Cornish hens sit out for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even roasting and maximum juiciness.• Skin Technique: Carefully loosening the skin without tearing allows the herb butter to create a flavor-packed layer between the meat and skin, resulting in incredibly moist and flavorful hens.• Butter Blending: Ensure your butter is truly softened (but not melted) to create a smooth, even herb distribution.• Temperature Watch: Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked hens - 165°F is your target for safe and succulent meat.• Resting is Crucial: Those 10-15 minutes of resting after roasting allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is as moist as possible.• Crispy Skin Secret: Pat the hens completely dry before buttering to achieve that irresistible golden, crispy exterior.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 220mg
