Lemon Herb Cornish Hens
Juicy Cornish hens infused with lemon, garlic, and herbs offer a flavorful, tender dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season hens lightly with salt and pepper.
- In a small saucepan, cook onion and garlic in vegetable oil until tender.
- Add lemon juice from concentrate, rosemary, parsley, chicken flavor, and remaining ingredients; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Preheat grill and cook hens until tender and crisp, about 1 hour, turning and basting frequently with the sauce.
- Refrigerate leftovers.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the cornish hens in the lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have chicken flavor, a bit of chicken broth can be a good substitute. You can also use fresh herbs instead of dried for a more vibrant taste. Don't forget to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safety.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon herb cornish hens are perfect for a festive gathering and pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a light salad. Consider serving with Cauliflower With Balsamic Vinegar for a refreshing contrast. A side of creamy mashed potatoes or a simple rice pilaf would also complement the dish well. Don't forget a glass of white wine to enhance the flavors!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cornish hens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hens in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This will help maintain their crispiness. You can also microwave them, but keep an eye on them to avoid drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Herb Cornish Hens contains roughly 24 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 527mg per serving (23% 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 frozen cornish hens for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cornish hens, but make sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents any food safety issues. It may take 24 hours to thaw completely, so plan ahead!
What can I substitute for rosemary if I don't have it?
If you don't have rosemary, thyme or sage can be great substitutes as they also provide a wonderful herbal flavor. You can even use Italian seasoning as a mix of herbs that will still deliver a delicious result in this dish.
How do I know when the cornish hens are done cooking?
The best way to check if the cornish hens are done is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, and it should read 165°F. Additionally, the juices should run clear when the hens are pierced. If they're still pink, continue cooking and check again.
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).