One of my absolute favorite recipes to make is a delicious cornish hen. There’s just something so satisfying about cooking these petite birds and enjoying their succulent, juicy meat. Today, I am going to share with you a fantastic recipe on how to butterfly a cornish hen, also known as spatchcocking. This technique not only ensures even cooking throughout but also creates a beautiful presentation. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
How to Butterfly a Cornish Hen
To begin, you’ll need one cornish hen, preferably fresh and of high quality. Carefully place the bird breast-side down on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp pair of kitchen shears, cut along both sides of the backbone from the tail end to the neck. Remove and set aside the backbone, you won’t be needing it for this recipe.
Next, press down firmly on the breastbone to flatten the hen. You’ll have a beautifully butterflied cornish hen ready to be seasoned and cooked to perfection. Now that we have the technique down, let’s explore some mouthwatering recipes to use with this butterflied hen!
Spatchcocking - How to Butterfly a Cornish Hen
This recipe is perfect for those who love a classic and straightforward approach to cooking. After butterflying your cornish hen, season it generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F and cook the hen for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Grilled Butterflied Cornish Hen
If you’re a fan of smoky flavors and the charred goodness of grilled food, then this recipe is a must-try! Once you’ve butterflied your cornish hen, marinate it in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and your choice of herbs for at least 1 hour. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the hen for approximately 10-12 minutes on each side, or until the skin is crispy and charred. Serve with grilled corn on the cob and a refreshing cucumber salad for a delightful summer feast.
Impressive Grilled Cornish Hen Recipe using Butterfly Technique
If you’re looking to impress your dinner guests with stunning presentation and incredible flavors, this recipe is your go-to option. After butterflying your cornish hen, prepare a marinade using soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and a splash of sesame oil. Let the hen marinate for at least 2 hours, then preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the hen for approximately 8-10 minutes on each side, basting with the marinade as you go. Serve with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
And there you have it! Three tantalizing recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of butterflied cornish hens. Whichever recipe you choose to try, make sure to enjoy the tender and flavorful meat made possible by the butterfly technique. This cooking method ensures that every bite is juicy and evenly cooked. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that grill or preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the amazing taste of cornish hens like never before!
