Cornish Hen Hens Butterflied Combi Thefrugalchef

Today, we have an absolutely delicious recipe to share with you all. It’s a Grilled Butterflied Cornish Hen recipe that will surely impress your friends and family. These little hens are tender, flavorful, and perfectly grilled to perfection.

Grilled Butterflied Cornish Hen Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish hens
• 4 tablespoons of butter, softened
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butterfly the Cornish hens by cutting along the backbone and pressing down on the breastbone to flatten them.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the garlic herb butter mixture evenly over the skin of the hens.
5. Place the hens on the grill, skin side down, and cook for about 10-12 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the hens from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

How to Prepare:

To prepare these delicious Grilled Butterflied Cornish Hens, start by preheating your grill. While the grill is heating up, you can prepare the hens. To butterfly the Cornish hens, you will need to cut along the backbone and then press down on the breastbone to flatten them. This technique helps the hens cook evenly and allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more effectively.

Next, it’s time to prepare the garlic herb butter mixture. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.

Once the hens are butterflied and the herb butter mixture is ready, spread the mixture evenly over the skin of the hens. This will help to create a deliciously flavored and moist outer layer.

Now, it’s time to grill the hens. Place them on the preheated grill, skin side down, and cook for about 10-12 minutes per side. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure that the hens are fully cooked and safe to eat.

Once the hens are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful eating experience.

Preparation Time:

The preparation time for this Grilled Butterflied Cornish Hen recipe is relatively quick and easy. It should take you about 15 minutes to prepare the hens and the garlic herb butter mixture. The grilling time is approximately 20-25 minutes, so you can have this delicious meal ready to serve in less than an hour.

Servings:

This recipe serves 2 people. However, you can easily adjust the quantities to accommodate more guests. Simply double or triple the ingredients as needed.

Nutrition Facts:

Unfortunately, we do not have the nutrition facts available for this specific recipe. However, Cornish hens are a lean source of protein and are typically lower in fat compared to larger poultry options. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.

Tips:

Here are a few tips to help you make the most out of this Grilled Butterflied Cornish Hen recipe:

1. If you don’t have access to a grill, you can also cook the hens in the oven. Simply place them on a baking sheet and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the garlic herb butter. For example, you can add some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or some chili flakes for a kick of heat.
3. Serve the Grilled Butterflied Cornish Hens with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. These hens are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide range of flavors.

FAQs:

Q: Can I marinate the hens overnight?

A: Yes, marinating the hens overnight can help to infuse the flavors even more. Simply place the butterflied hens in a resealable bag or container with the garlic herb butter mixture and let them marinate in the refrigerator for 8-24 hours before grilling.

Q: Can I use regular-sized chickens instead of Cornish hens?

A: Yes, you can definitely use regular-sized chickens for this recipe. However, keep in mind that the grilling time will be longer, so make sure to adjust accordingly.

Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

A: Absolutely! If you have access to fresh herbs, feel free to use them instead of dried. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

There you have it, a mouthwatering Grilled Butterflied Cornish Hen recipe that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply want to enjoy a flavorful meal, these hens are the perfect choice. Give this recipe a try and let your taste buds be amazed!