Indulge in the savory flavors of grilled game hens with this delicious recipe by Chef John. The hens are marinated in a flavorful herb mixture and then grilled to perfection, resulting in tender and juicy meat with a crispy, caramelized skin. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weekend barbecue.
Ingredients
- 2 game hens, halved
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, juiced
Directions
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to make the marinade.
- Place the game hen halves in a large resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the hens. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the hens from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
- Place the hens skin side down on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve the grilled game hens hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Game hens are small, young chickens that are perfect for grilling due to their tender meat and mild flavor.
Marinating the hens helps to infuse them with flavor and keep them moist while grilling.
Grilling game hens is a great way to add variety to your barbecue menu and impress your guests.