Cornish Hen
Juicy Cornish hen halves seasoned with savory spices, baked to perfection, served with a tangy sweet and sour sauce for a flavorful family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the Cornish hen in half down the middle of the breast.
- Spread the hen halves in an oblong Pyrex dish or small baking pan.
- Season the hen with poultry seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder (if using), and paprika.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, boney side up.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider marinating the Cornish hen in the sweet and sour sauce for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have poultry seasoning, a mix of thyme, sage, and rosemary works well. You can also substitute the Stove Top dressing with homemade stuffing if preferred. For a crispy skin, broil the hen for the last few minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This Cornish hen dish pairs beautifully with Barbara'S Creamed Spinach and roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Serve with a side of fluffy rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious juices. For a refreshing drink, consider a glass of Strawberry Iced Tea Fizz to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cornish hen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it, but be sure to cover it to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Hen contains roughly 535 calories, with 5g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (83% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a whole Cornish hen instead of cutting it in half?
Yes, you can use a whole Cornish hen. Just increase the baking time to ensure it's fully cooked, checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Adjust seasoning as needed, and consider covering it with foil for the first part of the baking to retain moisture.
What can I substitute for sweet and sour sauce?
If you don't have sweet and sour sauce, a mix of equal parts honey and soy sauce can be a great alternative. You can also create a simple sauce using ketchup, vinegar, and a bit of sugar for sweetness. Adjust the ratios to taste to achieve your desired flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Cornish hen recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook several hens at once and portion them out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just store the portions in individual containers with your choice of sides and reheat as needed for a quick meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).