Grilled Cornish hens are a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for any meal. These small birds are juicy, tender, and full of flavor when cooked on the grill. In this recipe, we will guide you through a simple process to prepare and grill Cornish hens.
With just a few ingredients and steps, you'll have a tasty meal that will impress your family and friends. So, let's start cooking these scrumptious grilled Cornish hens and enjoy a delightful meal together.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe stands out because the marinade infuses the Cornish hens with amazing flavors while keeping them moist and tender. Grilling the hens provides a delightful charred taste and a beautiful presentation. It's an excellent choice for a unique dinner that will impress your family and friends.
Additionally, Cornish hens are small, individual-sized birds, making portion control a breeze. This recipe is also adaptable, allowing you to experiment with different seasonings and marinades to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
Cornish Hens - Small, tender birds perfect for grilling; can be substituted with small chicken if unavailable.
Olive Oil - Adds moisture and helps the marinade adhere to the hens; can use vegetable oil if preferred.
Garlic - Provides a bold, aromatic flavor; use minced or powdered garlic as a substitute.
Lemon - Adds a zesty tanginess; can substitute with lime or orange for a different citrus flavor.
Fresh Herbs - Enhance the taste; rosemary, thyme, or oregano work well, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Tips
- Make sure to marinate the hens for at least 2 hours for optimal flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the hens are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Let the hens rest for a few minutes before serving to keep them juicy.
- If you don't have a grill, you can also roast the hens in the oven.
- Experiment with various herbs and spices to create your own unique marinade.
How to Serve
This Grilled Cornish Hens Recipe is perfect for a variety of occasions, from family dinners to elegant gatherings. The beautiful presentation and delicious flavors are sure to impress your guests.
- Serve the hens alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, for a sophisticated touch.
- For a festive holiday meal, serve the hens with cranberry sauce and your favorite sides.
Similar Recipes
Grilled Cornish Hens
Ingredients
- 4 Cornish hens
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lemon juiced
- ¼ cup fresh herbs chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs.
- Rub the marinade all over the hens, ensuring they are well coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to marinate.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the hens for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from grill, let rest for a few minutes, and serve.
Nutrition
Notes
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the hens are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
• Let the hens rest for a few minutes before serving to keep them juicy.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also roast the hens in the oven.
• Experiment with various herbs and spices to create your own unique marinade.