Cornish Hens A La Joyce
Juicy Cornish hens seasoned with herbs, Worcestershire, and wine, then wrapped in foil for tender, flavorful roasting perfect for intimate dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Tear off enough squares of foil to enclose each bird.
- Place 2 tablespoons of olive oil on each square of foil.
- Rub the Cornish hens in the oil to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the hens with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Place the hens meat side down on the foil.
- Mix thyme, poultry seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and red wine; put this mixture into the cavity of each bird.
- Wrap each bird tightly in foil.
- Place the wrapped hens on a cookie sheet and bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Reduce the oven temperature and hold the hens for up to at least 3 hours.
- Before serving, put a ball of good dressing into the cavity of each bird and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose Cornish hens that are uniform in size for even cooking. If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a suitable substitute. A mix of dried herbs such as Italian seasoning can replace thyme and poultry seasoning if needed. Ensure the hens are well coated in oil before seasoning to enhance flavor and prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with a light white wine. For an elegant touch, consider a side of lemon herb rice or mashed potatoes. This dish is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting Sunday dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cornish hens should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to maintain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Hens A La Joyce contains roughly 17 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% of the Daily Value).
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 regular chicken instead of Cornish hens?
Yes, you can substitute regular chicken for Cornish hens. Just adjust the cooking time, as larger pieces may require longer to cook thoroughly. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What can I use instead of red wine?
If you prefer not to use red wine, consider using chicken broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity and depth of flavor. Both will still contribute to a delicious dish.
How can I tell when the hens are done cooking?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the hen; it should read 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced.
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).