Name: Cajun Cornish Hens Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Cajun / Southern
Ingredients: For the Cajun Spice Rub:; • 1 tablespoon paprika; • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; • 1 teaspoon garlic powder; • 1 teaspoon onion powder; • 1 teaspoon dried thyme; • 1 teaspoon dried oregano; • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level); • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; • 1 teaspoon salt; • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (optional); • 1 teaspoon brown sugar; For the Cornish Hens:; • 2 Cornish hens (about 1.5 lbs each); • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter; • 1 tablespoon lemon juice; • 2 cloves garlic, minced; • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; • 1 small onion, quartered; • 1 small lemon, quartered; • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)

Description

These Cajun Cornish hens are perfectly seasoned with bold, smoky spices and roasted to juicy perfection. With a crispy, golden-brown skin and tender meat, this dish is an excellent centerpiece for a special dinner. Serve with roasted vegetables or Cajun rice for a flavorful meal with a Southern twist!

Ingredients

For the Cajun Spice Rub:

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (optional)

• 1 teaspoon brown sugar

For the Cornish Hens:

• 2 Cornish hens (about 1.5 lbs each)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 small onion, quartered

• 1 small lemon, quartered

• Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Hens

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Pat the Cornish hens dry with paper towels to help achieve a crispy skin.

3. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.

4. Rub this mixture all over the hens, including under the skin for extra flavor.

Step 2: Applying the Cajun Seasoning

5. In a separate bowl, mix all the Cajun spice rub ingredients.

6. Generously coat the hens with the spice rub, ensuring even coverage inside and out.

7. Stuff the cavity of each hen with a lemon wedge, onion quarters, and fresh herbs if using.

Step 3: Roasting the Hens

8. Place the hens breast-side up on a roasting rack in a baking dish.

9. Roast uncovered for 45-55 minutes, basting occasionally with pan juices.

10. The hens are done when the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C).

11. Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Step 4: Serving Suggestions

12. Serve with Cajun rice, roasted potatoes, or sautéed greens for a complete meal.

Notes

• For extra crispy skin, broil the hens for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.

• If you prefer spicier hens, increase the cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix.

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: Cajun / Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: Per Serving - ½ Hen
Calories: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 40g
Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: Cajun Cornish Hens, Roasted Cornish Game Hen, Spicy Roast Chicken, Southern Cajun Cooking, Holiday Dinner, Baked Cornish Hen