Name: Spatchcock Cornish Hen
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 units Cornish hens; 3 tablespoons all-purpose chicken seasoning

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Cooking a Spatchcock Cornish Hen has become one of my favorite ways to impress my family during dinner gatherings. I still remember the first time I tried this method; it was a chilly evening, and the warm aroma of roasted chicken filled my kitchen. As the hens roasted to perfection, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. The crispy skin and juicy tender meat practically called out for company at the table, and the smiles on my loved ones’ faces as they took their first bites told me I’d struck gold. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience.

There’s something about the presentation of a beautifully roasted hen that elevates any dinner. The flat shape of the spatchcocked hen allows for even cooking, ensuring every bite is delicious. Plus, the shorter cooking time compared to traditional roasting means I can spend more time with my guests. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast. The first time I served this dish, my guests were amazed at how flavorful it was, and I couldn’t help but feel a little proud of my culinary prowess.

As you dive into this recipe, remember that the beauty of a Spatchcock Cornish Hen lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also a true showstopper. So, let’s get started on this culinary adventure!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
55 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
25 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Oven, Blender

The Appeal of This Spatchcock Cornish Hen

Perfectly Crispy Skin

One of the highlights of making a Spatchcock Cornish Hen is achieving that perfectly crispy skin. The spatchcocking technique allows for more surface area to be exposed to the heat, which results in a wonderfully crispy exterior. As the skin crisps, it seals in the moisture, ensuring the meat remains juicy.

Flavorful Seasoning

The seasoning blend is simple yet incredibly flavorful. Using a blend of spices enhances the natural flavors of the hens without overpowering them. It’s a real game changer that elevates your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Impressive Presentation

A whole roasted hen makes for a stunning centerpiece on your dining table. The sight of a beautifully browned and perfectly spatchcocked hen garnished with herbs or lemon slices brings an inviting warmth to any meal.

Time-Saving Method

Spatchcocking not only reduces cooking time but also allows for more even cooking. This means you won’t have to worry about undercooked areas while the skin burns. It’s a foolproof method that every home cook should try!

Versatile Meal

This dish can be served with a variety of sides, making it adaptable for any occasion. Whether paired with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes, the Spatchcock Cornish Hen can fit into any menu seamlessly.

What’s In This Spatchcock Cornish Hen

The ingredients for this recipe work beautifully together, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. At the heart of the dish are the Cornish hens, known for their tender meat and rich flavor. Coupled with a delicious seasoning blend, these ingredients ensure every bite is a delight.

Cornish hens – These small birds are perfect for roasting whole. Their tender meat and juicy flavor make them an ideal choice for this recipe.

All-purpose chicken seasoning – A blend of spices that enhances the natural flavor of the hens, ensuring a deliciously seasoned meal.

Cooking Method for Spatchcock Cornish Hen

Let’s dive into the cooking method for the Spatchcock Cornish Hen. It’s simpler than you might think! Following these detailed instructions will lead you to a beautifully roasted hen that’s sure to impress.

Start by removing the backbone of the hens using sharp kitchen shears or a chef knife. This step is crucial for the spatchcocking process, which allows the birds to lay flat and cook evenly.

Place the hens breast side up on your cutting board. Make sure they are centered so that they roast evenly.
Press down on the breast bone with your hands to flatten the hens. You should hear a crack as the bone breaks, which allows the meat to spread out.
Pat the hens down well on all sides with a paper towel. This helps remove excess moisture, which is key for achieving crispy skin.

Transfer them to a rack over a sheet tray and generously season them on all sides with the chicken seasoning blend. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it enhances the flavor beautifully!
Dry brine the hens in the fridge uncovered for 12 to 48 hours. This step not only seasons the meat but also helps it retain moisture while cooking.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400° Fahrenheit with the convection setting on, or 425° Fahrenheit if you’re not using convection.

Bake the hens at 400° with convection on a middle rack for 50 to 55 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and check that the deepest part of the breast reaches 165° internally.
Once they are cooked, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite even juicier!

Things Worth Knowing

Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F. If you don’t have one, pierce the breast meat with a knife; the juices should run clear.

Make ahead: You can spatchcock and dry brine the hens in advance. This not only saves time but also improves flavor.
Use a rack: Cooking the hens on a rack allows hot air to circulate around the birds, promoting even cooking and crispy skin.
Roasting vegetables: Place hearty vegetables like potatoes or carrots in the baking pan under the hens. They will roast in the delicious chicken drippings!

Customization Ideas

There are many ways to personalize your Spatchcock Cornish Hen recipe to suit your taste! Here are some delicious tips to get you started.

Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs in your seasoning blend for a unique flavor. Thyme, rosemary, and parsley are excellent choices.
Citrus Flavor: Add lemon or orange zest to your seasoning for a refreshing citrus kick that pairs beautifully with the rich meat.

Spicy Kick: Incorporate cayenne pepper or chili powder into your chicken seasoning for some heat if you like your meals a little spicy.
Sweet Glaze: Brush the hens with a honey or maple syrup glaze during the last 10 minutes of roasting for a sweet and savory contrast.
Stuffing Options: Consider stuffing the cavity with garlic cloves or citrus fruits to infuse additional flavor as it cooks.

Side Pairings: Serve the hens with seasonal vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.

How to Serve Spatchcock Cornish Hen

When it comes to serving your Spatchcock Cornish Hen, presentation is key! Here are some fun ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Plate Presentation: Serve the hens on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon slices, for a visually stunning centerpiece.

Family Style: For a casual feel, serve the hens alongside sides in a family-style setting, allowing guests to serve themselves.
Seasonal Sides: Pair with roasted seasonal vegetables or a hearty grain salad to complement the flavors of the hens.
Occasion Serving: This dish is perfect for special occasions like holidays, family gatherings, or dinner parties, adding a touch of elegance to any meal.

Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing Ideas: You can freeze the cooked and cooled hens for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Spatchcocking a hen means removing the backbone so that the bird can be flattened. This technique allows for more even cooking and crispy skin. It’s quite simple; all you need are sharp kitchen shears to cut through the bone. Once you’ve done this, you can press down on the breast bone to further flatten the hen. This method not only reduces cooking time but also ensures that all parts of the bird cook evenly.

For the best flavor and moisture retention, it’s recommended to dry brine the spatchocked hen for anywhere between 12 to 48 hours. However, if you’re short on time, you can reduce the brining time to just 4 hours. The longer brining time allows the salt to penetrate the meat more thoroughly, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful hen. After brining, be sure to pat the hen dry before cooking for extra crispy skin.

Absolutely! While a simple all-purpose chicken seasoning works great, feel free to get creative with your spice blends. You can use a mix of herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even add some citrus zest for a fresh flavor. If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to your seasoning mix. The key is to use flavors that complement the natural richness of the cornish hen.

The versatility of spatchcock Cornish hen makes it easy to pair with a variety of sides. Classic choices include roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts, which can be cooked alongside the hen to soak up all the delicious drippings. You can also serve it with a light salad or a hearty grain dish like quinoa or rice. Don’t forget to add a sauce or gravy for added flavor!

Conclusion

The Spatchcock Cornish Hen is a dish that truly stands out, combining ease of preparation with impressive results. Each bite is a blend of crispy skin and tender meat that will leave your guests asking for seconds. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next family gathering or cozy weeknight dinner. It’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories around the table with loved ones.

Spatchcock Cornish Hen

The ultimate comfort food, Spatchcock Cornish Hen is a flavorful and visually appealing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 45

Total Time 55

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

Baking Sheet
Oven
Blender

Ingredients

2 units Cornish hens
3 tablespoons all-purpose chicken seasoning

Instructions

Start by removing the backbone of the hens using sharp kitchen shears or a chef knife.
Place the hens breast side up on your cutting board.

Press down on the breast bone with your hands to flatten the hens.
Pat the hens down well on all sides with a paper towel.
Transfer them to a rack over a sheet tray and generously season them on all sides with the chicken seasoning blend.

Dry brine them in the fridge uncovered for 12 to 48 hours.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400° Fahrenheit with the convection setting on, or 425° Fahrenheit if you’re not using convection.
Bake the hens at 400° with convection on a middle rack for 50 to 55 minutes.

Once they are cooked, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Make-Ahead: You can spatchcock your Cornish hens and dry brine them in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours before cooking.
How to Store: Store the cooked and cooled hens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.