Juicy Cornish Hens Roasted to Perfection

This recipe for delightful Cornish hens will wow your guests with its delightful flavors and elegant presentation. The hens are brined to retain their juiciness while roasting to perfection. The simple yet flavorful herb rub adds a burst of aromatic flavors, making this dish a crowd-pleaser. Serve these juicy Cornish hens with your favorite sides for a memorable and impressive meal.

Ingredients

• 2 whole Cornish hens
• 4 cups water
• 1/4 cup salt
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine water, salt, and sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar are dissolved to create a brine.
2. Place the Cornish hens in the brine, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the Cornish hens from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels.
5. Place the hens on a baking dish and brush them with melted butter.
6. In a small bowl, mix together dried rosemary, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create the herb rub.
7. Sprinkle the herb rub evenly over the hens, making sure to coat all sides.
8. Roast the hens in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
9. Once cooked, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
10. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
11. Serve the delightful Cornish hens with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Interesting Facts