How long to cook cornish game hen in oven

What is a Cornish Game Hen?

Before we dive into the specifics of cooking a cornish game hen in an oven, let’s first understand what this bird is and where it comes from. A cornish game hen is a small, domesticated fowl that hails from Cornwall, England. It is similar in size and flavor to a chicken, but has a more rounded shape and a distinctively dark skin color.

Cornish game hens are typically between 1-2 pounds in weight, and have a rich, buttery flavor that sets them apart from other types of fowl. They are often used in high-end restaurants and special occasions, as they are considered a luxury item due to their unique taste and appearance.

Preparing Your Cornish Game Hen for Cooking

Before you can start cooking your cornish game hen in an oven, you’ll need to prepare it properly. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Thaw the bird: If your cornish game hen is frozen, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or in a cold water bath for 2-3 hours before cooking.
2. Pat dry: Remove the bird from the refrigerator and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help the skin crisp up and give the bird a nice golden brown color when cooked.
3. Season generously: Cornish game hen has a mild flavor, so it’s important to season it generously with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like. You can also add some butter or olive oil to the skin for added richness and flavor.
4. Tie the legs together: To prevent the bird from spreading out too much while cooking, tie the legs together with some twine or string. This will help keep the meat nice and compact.
5. Preheat your oven: While you’re preparing your cornish game hen, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is the ideal temperature for cooking a cornish game hen in an oven.

Cooking Your Cornish Game Hen in an Oven

Now that you’ve prepared your cornish game hen and preheated your oven, it’s time to cook! Here’s how:

1. Place the bird on a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking. Place your cornish game hen on the sheet, breast-side up.
2. Cook for 45-60 minutes: Depending on the size of your bird, it will take between 45-60 minutes to cook in an oven at 425°F (220°C). To test if it’s done, insert a thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. The temperature should read 165°F (74°C) when the bird is fully cooked.



3. Let it rest: Once your cornish game hen is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the meat more tender.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Cornish Game Hen

Here are some tips to ensure your cornish game hen turns out perfectly every time:

• Use a thermometer: While you can tell if a bird is cooked by looking at the skin, using a thermometer is the most accurate way to know for sure. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh and make sure it reads 165°F (74°C) when the bird is done.
• Don’t overcook: Overcooking a cornish game hen can dry out the meat and make it tough.