Name: Irresistible Garlic Butter Cornish Hens with Savory Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cornish hens, thawed and brought to room temperature; 4 tbsp butter, softened; 4 cloves garlic, grated; 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried); 1 tsp fresh rosemary leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried); 1 tsp smoked paprika; Zest of 1 small lemon; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1.5 lb mini fingerling potato medley, halved; 1 onion, cut into quarters; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup chicken stock; Pan drippings from the roasted hens; 1 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp white wine (optional); 1 cup chicken stock; Salt and pepper, if needed

Jump to Recipe·4 from 45 reviews

If you’re searching for a dish that captures cozy comfort and impressive flavor in one, look no further than this Irresistible Garlic Butter Cornish Hens with Savory Gravy Recipe. Picture tender, golden-hued Cornish hens roasted to perfection, infused with fragrant garlic butter, and complemented by a rich, homemade savory gravy that lures every bite back for more. The addition of herbs, a touch of lemon zest, and a subtle smoky kick create an unforgettable feast that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a whole raw chicken placed on light brown parchment paper. To the top left, there is a small white bowl filled with a yellow butter cube topped with red pepper flakes, green herbs, and lemon zest. To the right, there is a white pan holding halved small potatoes in red, purple, and yellow colors mixed with white onion slices. Surrounding these are halved yellow lemons, a cut garlic bulb, and a bundle of fresh green thyme sprigs all arranged on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe lies in a handful of straightforward, quality ingredients that each play an essential role. From the aromatic herbs that bring freshness and depth, to the garlic butter that ensures juicy, flavorful meat, every component works in harmony to elevate this dish.

Cornish hens: Two hens, thawed and at room temperature, which roast quickly while staying tender and juicy.
Butter: Four tablespoons of softened butter, acting as the luscious base that locks in moisture and flavor.
Garlic: Four grated cloves for that bold, savory punch that carries throughout the dish.
Fresh thyme leaves: One teaspoon provides earthy notes; dried works too if fresh isn’t handy.
Fresh rosemary leaves: One teaspoon adds a piney, fragrant lift to the butter mixture.
Smoked paprika: One teaspoon offers a subtle smoky warmth that complements the poultry beautifully.
Lemon zest: Zest of one small lemon brightens the overall flavor and adds a touch of vibrancy.
Crushed red pepper flakes: Half a teaspoon for a gentle, warming heat that balances richness.
Salt and pepper: To taste, crucial for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
Mini fingerling potato medley: One and a half pounds, halved, roasting alongside for a colorful, creamy side.
Onion: One, quartered, to add natural sweetness and aroma.
Olive oil: Two tablespoons to help crisp the vegetables and blend flavors.
Chicken stock: One cup to keep the hens moist during roasting and form the base of the gravy.
Flour: One tablespoon for thickening the rich gravy from pan drippings.
White wine (optional): Two tablespoons to add depth and subtle acidity to the gravy.

How to Make Irresistible Garlic Butter Cornish Hens with Savory Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter

Start by combining softened butter with grated garlic, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, lemon zest, crushed red pepper flakes, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. This fragrant butter blend is the heart of your flavor, so mix it thoroughly to ensure every bite is rich and herby.

Step 2: Prep the Cornish Hens

Pat the hens dry with paper towels—this is key for crispy skin. Gently loosen the skin of each hen without tearing it and spread the garlic herb butter evenly underneath, as well as on the outside. This technique infuses the meat while keeping the skin beautifully browned during roasting.

Step 3: Prepare Vegetables

In a large roasting pan, toss the halved fingerling potatoes and quartered onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Nestle the hens right on top of this vibrant bed so the drippings flavor the veggies as everything roasts together.

Step 4: Roast the Hens

Pour chicken stock into the pan to maintain moisture and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 50-60 minutes until the hens are golden and an instant-read thermometer hits 165°F (74°C). Basting with pan juices halfway through helps deepen flavor and color.

Step 5: Make the Savory Gravy

Once the hens are out, pour the pan drippings into a saucepan. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then slowly add chicken stock and white wine if using. Simmer gently until thickened, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This luscious gravy beautifully captures all the roasted flavor nuances.

How to Serve Irresistible Garlic Butter Cornish Hens with Savory Gravy Recipe

The image shows a black pan filled with two large seasoned chicken halves on top, each with a light golden color and sprinkled with black pepper and herbs. Below the chicken, there are layers of white onion wedges and halved small potatoes in red and yellow colors. A lemon half is placed near the top left side inside the pan, adding a bright yellow contrast. Fresh green thyme sprigs are scattered around the edges of the pan. A woman's hand grips the blue handle of the pan on the right side, and the background is a white marbled surface with a beige cloth slightly visible at the top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or thyme sprigs not only add a pop of green but provide an herbaceous brightness that contrasts the rich gravy. A light sprinkling of lemon zest over the dish before serving can awaken the senses and highlight the citrus notes in the garlic butter.

Side Dishes

This Irresistible Garlic Butter Cornish Hens with Savory Gravy Recipe shines with classic sides like buttery mashed potatoes or roasted green beans, but you can also opt for a crisp mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette to lighten things up. For something heartier, creamy polenta or garlic rice are sumptuous companions, soaking up every drip of that savory gravy.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the hens whole for a rustic, elegant look at the table, letting guests carve their own juicy portions. Alternatively, present each hen halved with a drizzle of gravy artfully pooled around it and scattered roasted potatoes for a refined plating. For festive occasions, arrange the hens on a large platter with aromatic herbs and lemon wedges, making the centerpiece truly swoon-worthy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover hens and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The garlic butter flavors deepen even further overnight, so leftovers often taste just as amazing if not better.

Freezing

If you want to freeze portions, carve hens into pieces and pack tightly with some of the roasted potatoes in freezer-safe containers. Label and freeze for up to two months to enjoy a delicious meal anytime without the fuss.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C), covered with foil to keep moisture in, for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Warm leftover gravy on the stovetop and pour generously over the reheated hens for maximum flavor revival.

FAQs

Can I use regular chicken instead of Cornish hens?

Absolutely! While Cornish hens offer a cute individual size and delicate flavor, regular chicken pieces or small whole chickens work beautifully with this recipe. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is there a substitute for the white wine in the gravy?

Yes, if you prefer not to use wine, simply replace it with an equivalent amount of extra chicken stock or a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity. The gravy will remain flavorful and rich.

Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead of time?

Definitely. You can mix the garlic herb butter a day or two in advance and store it refrigerated. This makes assembling the hens quick and hassle-free on the day of cooking.

How do I know when the Cornish hens are fully cooked?

The best way is using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. The juices should run clear when pierced as well.

Can I double this recipe for a larger gathering?

Yes, this recipe scales well. Just use multiple roasting pans or larger pots, and monitor cooking times for even roasting. This Irresistible Garlic Butter Cornish Hens with Savory Gravy Recipe will impress a crowd every time.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably special about serving this Irresistible Garlic Butter Cornish Hens with Savory Gravy Recipe. It’s a dish that combines beautiful simplicity with show-stopping flavor, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special celebrations. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find it becoming your new favorite comfort food that friends and family ask for again and again.