Name: Baked Cornish Game Hen
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 cup olive oil; 2 tsp salt; 4 pcs Cornish game hens (cleaned and prepared)

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If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, then let me introduce you to my Baked Cornish Game Hen recipe! Honestly, it’s one of those meals that feels fancy but is as simple as pie. With just a handful of ingredients and about 80 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table that’s perfect for any occasion.

Baked Cornish Game Hen (40g Protein) - detail 1

What really makes this dish shine is its incredible protein content—each serving packs in a whopping 40 grams of protein! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, these tender and juicy hens are sure to impress. Trust me, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be in and out of the kitchen in no time!
Delicious Flavor: The marinade infuses the hens with rich, savory goodness that makes every bite a delight.
High Protein: Each serving boasts an impressive 40 grams of protein, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious diners.
Impressive Presentation: Serving Cornish game hens feels like a gourmet experience, ideal for special occasions.
Versatile Pairing: These hens complement a variety of sides, from roasted veggies to creamy mashed potatoes.

Ingredients for Baked Cornish Game Hen

To create this mouth-watering Baked Cornish Game Hen, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll be working with:

1 cup of olive oil: This rich oil is the base of our marinade, adding moisture and a beautiful depth of flavor to the hens.
2 tsp of salt: Salt is essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the meat. It helps to season the hens thoroughly, ensuring every bite is delicious.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show:

4 Cornish game hens: These little beauties should be cleaned and prepared before you start. Look for hens that are plump and fresh, as they’ll roast up beautifully and remain juicy.

That’s it! With just these ingredients, you’ll be able to whip up a meal that’s not only easy but also packs a flavorful punch. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

How to Prepare Baked Cornish Game Hen

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: preparing your Baked Cornish Game Hen! This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you’re set up for success. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

The first thing you want to do is preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is super important because starting with a hot oven helps to seal in all the juices of the hens right from the get-go. While that oven is warming up, you can get everything else ready!

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of olive oil and 2 teaspoons of salt. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This marinade is going to be the magic that flavors your hens. Don’t skimp on time here—give it a good stir! If you want to get fancy, feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for an extra kick. Letting the marinade sit for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Marinate the Hens

Now it’s time to give those Cornish game hens some love! Take each hen and rub the marinade all over, making sure to cover every nook and cranny. You really want the flavors to penetrate the meat, so don’t be shy! Make sure to get under the skin as well, if possible. This step is key to achieving that mouthwatering flavor you’re aiming for. Once they’re all coated, let them sit for a few minutes so they can soak up that delicious marinade.

Step 4: Roast the Hens

Place the marinated hens in a baking dish, making sure they’re not crowded. Pop them into your preheated oven and roast for about 60 minutes. Keep an eye on them halfway through—if they’re browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with foil. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once they’re out of the oven, let the hens rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even more succulent. Wow, you’re going to love this!

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional information of your Baked Cornish Game Hen is essential, especially if you’re keeping an eye on your health. Each serving of this delectable dish contains approximately 450 calories, with a generous 40 grams of protein to fuel your day. The fat content is around 30 grams, including 7 grams of saturated fat, which adds to the richness of the dish. It’s worth noting that these numbers are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying. With zero carbohydrates and sugar, this meal is perfect for low-carb diets while still being satisfying and delicious!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Baked Cornish Game Hen turns out absolutely perfect every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by:

Check Doneness: The best way to ensure your hens are cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. If you don’t have one, you can also check for clear juices running from the meat when pierced.
Experiment with Marinades: While olive oil and salt are fantastic, don’t hesitate to get creative! Try adding garlic, lemon juice, or your favorite herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an extra flavor boost.
Let Them Rest: Remember to let your hens rest for at least 10 minutes after roasting. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to settle, making each bite tender and juicy.

Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to impressing everyone at the dinner table!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your Baked Cornish Game Hen is out of the oven and smelling divine, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside it! Here are some delicious ideas that will elevate your meal:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic side that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the hen.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies, like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus, adds color and nutrition to your plate.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with fresh herbs complements the savory taste of the game hen beautifully.
Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Cranberry Sauce: A touch of sweetness from cranberry sauce provides a lovely contrast to the savory flavors.

Mix and match these sides to create a delightful and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen Cornish game hens for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before marinating. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.

Q2: How can I ensure my Cornish game hens stay moist?
Using a marinade is key! The olive oil not only flavors the hens but also helps keep them juicy. Don’t skip the resting time after roasting; it’s crucial for retaining moisture.

Q3: Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
Yes, you can! Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions can roast alongside the hens, soaking up those delicious flavors. Just make sure they’re cut into even pieces for proper cooking.

Q4: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover baked Cornish game hen in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven to keep it crispy!

Q5: Can I use a different marinade?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors. A mix of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs can add a refreshing twist to your Baked Cornish Game Hen.

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