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Irresistible Garlic Butter Cornish Hens with Savory Gravy Recipe

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4 from 45 reviews

This Irresistible Garlic Butter Cornish Hens recipe features tender, flavorful hens roasted to golden perfection with a rich garlic butter rub and aromatic herbs. Served alongside mini fingerling potatoes and caramelized onions, it is finished with a luscious homemade gravy made from the pan drippings. Perfect for an elegant dinner or special occasion, this dish delivers comfort with a gourmet touch.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Cornish Hens and Butter Rub

  • 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

Vegetables

  • 1.5 lb mini fingerling potato medley, halved
  • 1 onion, cut into quarters
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Liquid Ingredients

  • 1 cup chicken stock

Gravy

  • 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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with grated garlic, fresh thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, lemon zest, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a fragrant and flavorful butter mixture.
  2. Season the Cornish Hens: Pat the cornish hens dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin from the breast and legs without tearing. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly under the skin and over the outside of each hen for maximum flavor penetration.
  3. Prepare Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the halved mini fingerling potatoes and quartered onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  4. Preheat Oven and Arrange: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large roasting pan or baking dish, arrange the seasoned cornish hens breast-side up. Scatter the prepared potatoes and onions around the hens in a single layer.
  5. Roast the Hens and Vegetables: Roast for about 45 to 55 minutes, or until the hens reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer, and the skin is golden and crispy. The vegetables should be tender and nicely caramelized.
  6. Make the Gravy: Remove the hens and vegetables from the roasting pan and transfer them to a serving platter, covering loosely with foil to rest. Pour the pan drippings into a medium saucepan over medium heat. If there’s excess fat, spoon some off, leaving about 2 tbsp in the pan. Stir in 1 tbsp all-purpose flour into the fat to make a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly. Slowly whisk in 1 cup chicken stock and 2 tbsp white wine (optional). Simmer gently and stir constantly until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve: Carve the cornish hens and serve with roasted fingerling potatoes and onions, drizzled generously with freshly made garlic butter gravy. Enjoy your elegant and comforting meal!

Notes

  • Allow the cornish hens to reach room temperature before roasting for more even cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure hens are cooked safely without drying out.
  • The white wine in the gravy is optional but adds depth of flavor.
  • For a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat well.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/irresistible-garlic-butter-cornish-hens-with-savory-gravy-recipe/