Picnic Cornish Hen
A flavorful individual Cornish hen recipe featuring a Dijon mustard and green onion crust, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub the Cornish hen with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Sprinkle with bread crumbs.
- Place the prepared hen on a square of aluminum foil and fold to the center.
- Add minced green onion and 1 tablespoon of butter inside the foil package, then fold the foil tightly over the ingredients.
- Bake at 450°F for 45 minutes, then open the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the Cornish hen before baking. If you don't have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard can work as a substitute. Instead of bread crumbs, crushed crackers or panko can add a nice crunch. Make sure to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Picnic Cornish Hen with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Dottie'S Homemade Biscuits for a comforting touch. Consider a light sauce made from the drippings to enhance the flavors. This dish is perfect for outdoor gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cornish hen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the hen in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through, ensuring it stays moist. You can also microwave it, but be cautious not to overcook it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picnic Cornish Hen contains roughly 792 calories, with 6g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 different type of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a regular chicken, but cooking times will vary based on size. A smaller chicken will require a longer cooking time, so ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature of 165°F. Adjust the seasoning as needed, as larger birds may need more flavor.
Is it possible to cook the Cornish hen on a grill?
Absolutely! To grill the Cornish hen, prepare it as instructed and use a grill-safe pan or wrap it in foil. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, then cook for approximately 45-60 minutes, turning occasionally, until thoroughly cooked. This method adds a delightful smoky flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cornish hen up to the baking stage, then refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight. When ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This is a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
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).