If you’re searching for a meal that feels elegant but is surprisingly simple to prepare, this Best Roasted Cornish Hen Ever is the answer. With crispy golden skin, juicy meat, and classic flavors from garlic, lemon, butter, and fresh herbs, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results right from your oven. Perfect for special occasions, romantic dinners, or anytime you want a beautiful yet easy homemade meal.
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Cornish Hen
Cornish hens are ideal when you want something a little more special than chicken but just as approachable. They roast quickly, portion perfectly, and absorb flavor beautifully. This recipe uses simple ingredients and a straightforward roasting method to create tender meat and crisp skin every time.
You’ll love how the fresh herbs and lemon brighten the dish, while butter and olive oil keep everything moist and rich without being heavy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful roasted Cornish hen:
- 1 Cornish hen (about 1 lb) per person
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 cup potatoes, chopped
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, halved
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients come together to create a classic, comforting roast with vibrant flavor.
How to Make the Best Roasted Cornish Hen Ever
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet.
Step 2: Prep the Hen
Pat the Cornish hen dry with paper towels. This step is key for achieving crispy skin.
Step 3: Season Generously
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Rub the mixture all over the hen, including under the skin if possible.
Step 4: Stuff and Arrange
Place the lemon halves and garlic inside the cavity. Arrange the carrots, potatoes, and onions around the hen in the roasting pan.
Step 5: Roast
Roast uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Crispier skin: Pat the hen very dry and avoid overcrowding the pan
- Dried herbs: Use one-third the amount if substituting dried herbs
- Extra flavor: Add lemon zest to the butter mixture
- Vegetable swap: Try parsnips, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts
- Make-ahead: Season the hen up to 12 hours in advance and refrigerate
Best Roasted Cornish Hen Ever (Easy & Juicy)
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving (1 Cornish hen) per person 1x
Description
Juicy, flavorful Cornish hen with golden crispy skin, roasted with garlic, lemon, butter, and fresh herbs alongside tender vegetables. An elegant yet easy dinner for special occasions or weeknights.
Ingredients
1 Cornish hen (about 1 lb) per person
1 cup potatoes, chopped
1 cup carrots, chopped
1 cup onions, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced (plus extra for cavity if desired)
1 lemon, halved (plus optional zest)
2 tbsp butter, softened
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet.
2. Pat the Cornish hen dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp.
3. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, olive oil, salt, black pepper, rosemary, and thyme.
4. Rub the herb-butter mixture all over the hen (and under the skin if you can).
5. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and garlic.
6. Scatter potatoes, carrots, and onions around the hen in the pan. Toss veggies lightly in the pan drippings if needed.
7. Roast uncovered 45–50 minutes, or until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Rest 5–10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
For extra-crispy skin, pat the hen very dry and roast uncovered.
If using dried herbs, use about 1 teaspoon total (dried is stronger than fresh).
Add lemon zest to the butter mixture for brighter flavor.
Leftovers store in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Cornish hen with vegetables
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Serving Ideas & Storage
This roasted Cornish hen pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm dinner rolls. It’s perfect for date nights, holiday meals, or elegant weeknight dinners.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the meat juicy.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~420 |
| Protein | 34g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | ~480mg |
(Values are estimates and may vary.)
Final Thoughts
This Best Roasted Cornish Hen Ever proves that elegant meals don’t have to be complicated. With classic flavors, juicy results, and a simple roasting method, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again — whether for a celebration or a cozy night in.