Lemon and Herb Roasted Cornish Hens

Lemon and Herb Roasted Cornish Hens are a delightful and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner. These small game birds are tender and juicy, and when combined with the bright flavors of lemon and herbs, they create a mouthwatering meal that will impress your guests. This recipe is easy to follow and will guide you through the steps to create a delicious and memorable dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish hens
• 2 lemons
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme, chopped
• 4 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Cornish Hens

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Place the hens on a cutting board and use kitchen shears to remove the backbone. Press down on the breastbone to flatten the hens. This will help them cook evenly and more quickly.

2. Creating the Lemon and Herb Marinade

In a small bowl, combine the juice of one lemon, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.

3. Marinating the Cornish Hens

Place the flattened Cornish hens in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the hens, making sure to coat them evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let the hens marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.

4. Roasting the Cornish Hens

Remove the marinated hens from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Place the hens on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan, skin side up. Cut the remaining lemon into slices and arrange them around the hens.

Roast the hens in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. Baste the hens with the pan juices every 15 minutes to keep them moist and flavorful.

5. Resting and Serving

Once the hens are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and succulent meat.

Serve the Lemon and Herb Roasted Cornish Hens with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. The bright flavors of lemon and herbs will complement a variety of sides, making this dish a versatile and delicious choice for any occasion.

Enjoy this delightful and flavorful dish with your loved ones, and savor the tender and juicy meat of the Cornish hens infused with the vibrant flavors of lemon and herbs. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, and it will impress anyone lucky enough to taste it!