Rosemary Game Hen
Juicy Cornish game hens infused with rosemary, garlic, and herbs, perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions, offering rich flavors and tender meat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hens in olive oil.
- Add chopped garlic to the pan.
- Sprinkle herbs including rosemary, parsley, and summer savory over the hens.
- Add 1/2 cup of chicken stock or water to the pan.
- Cover and reduce heat to low; cook until the hens are done, approximately 40 to 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the hens in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. You can substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth for a lighter option or use fresh herbs if available. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference, and feel free to add vegetables like carrots or potatoes to the pan for a one-pot meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the rosemary game hen alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like Poached Fish With Caper Sauce or a light quinoa salad. For a heartier option, consider mashed potatoes or couscous as sides to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover game hen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hens in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of chicken stock to keep them moist. You can also microwave them in short intervals, covered, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rosemary Game Hen contains roughly 738 calories, with 29g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (60% of the Daily Value), protein (58% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1111mg per serving (48% 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 game hens for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Cornish game hens. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking, which usually takes about 24 hours. This will ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption from the herbs and spices.
What if I don't have summer savory?
If you don’t have summer savory, you can substitute it with thyme or oregano, which will still complement the dish nicely. Adjust the amount to taste since these herbs have different flavor profiles.
How can I tell when the hens are fully cooked?
The hens are fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the breast. You can use a meat thermometer for accurate measurement. 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).