Are you searching for a delicious and hassle-free main dish for your next dinner or holiday gathering? Look no further! These Air Fryer Juicy Cornish Hens are the perfect solution. Whether cooked fresh or frozen, these mini rotisserie chickens are packed with flavor, thanks to a delightful blend of herbs and spices.
What Makes Cornish Hens Special
Cornish hens are a unique breed of chickens with a maximum weight of around 2 pounds. Often referred to as game hens, their taste and flavor closely resemble that of chicken. You can prepare them in various ways, with plenty of flavor options to choose from. The best part? Each hen serves two portions, making portioning a breeze. Simply slice them in half!
If you purchase Cornish hens with giblets, don’t worry! You can easily remove them from the cavity. Check out our guide on How to Remove Giblets from Chicken for more information.
Easy Steps to Air Fryer Perfection
Creating mouthwatering Cornish hens in the air fryer is a simple process. Here’s what you need to do:
- Rub the Cornish hens with a mixture of oil, poultry seasoning, thyme, smoked paprika, rosemary, and garlic powder.
- Place the hens breast side down in the air fryer.
- Let the air fryer work its magic.
Cooking Time and Temperature
To ensure perfectly cooked Cornish hens, follow these guidelines:
- Cook for 25 minutes on one side, then flip them over.
- Continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. We recommend using a meat thermometer for accuracy.
For optimum results, set your air fryer to a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Spice it Up with More Options
If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with additional spices and flavors. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
- Dried Basil
- Lemon Pepper Seasoning
- Blackening Seasoning Recipe
- Cajun Seasoning
Feel free to mix and match these seasonings to create your own unique flavor profile!
Can You Cook Them From Frozen?
Yes, you can! Follow these steps for cooking frozen Cornish hens:
- Cook the frozen birds for 20 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Open the air fryer and season the chicken.
- Flip the chicken and season the other side.
- Cook for an additional 20 minutes at 370 degrees Fahrenheit, flipping halfway through.
Tips for the Best Results
To ensure your Cornish hens turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Wear cooking gloves while handling the chicken if preferred.
- After handling raw chicken, be sure to wash your hands and kitchen utensils thoroughly.
- Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Cover every inch of the chicken to avoid blandness. Adjust the amount of seasoning to your taste.
- Removing the chicken from the air fryer without altering its presentation can be tricky. Allow the chicken to rest after cooking before attempting to remove it with tongs. If that doesn’t work, you can always let it cool a bit and remove it with your hands.
Perfect Pairings for Your Cornish Hens
To complete your meal, consider serving these delicious Air Fryer Juicy Cornish Hens with the following dishes:
- Air Fryer Loaded Baked Potatoes
- Southern Baked Ham with Pineapple
- Air Fryer Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
- Air Fryer Roasted Asparagus
- Air Fryer Garlic Cheesy Bread
- Air Fryer Homemade French Fries
- Roasted Ranch Potatoes
- Air Fryer Lobster Tails
- Air Fryer Roast Beef
Explore More Air Fryer Chicken and Poultry Recipes
If you can’t get enough of air fryer recipes, we have you covered with even more chicken and poultry options. Check out these delectable dishes:
- Air Fryer Whole Chicken
- Air Fryer Turkey Legs
- Air Fryer Turkey Breast
- Air Fryer Chicken Wings
- Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken
- Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
- Air Fryer Chicken Breast
- Air Fryer Turkey Wings
- Air Fryer Honey Glazed Ham
- Smothered Turkey Wings
- Air Fryer Lamb Chops
- Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
- Air Fryer Spatchcock Chicken
For more recipe inspiration, don’t miss our post on 20 Quick and Easy Air Fryer Thanksgiving Holiday Recipes.
And if you’re in the mood for different cornish hen recipes, be sure to try our Smoked Cornish Hen and Slow Cooker Crockpot Cornish Hens.
Now that you’ve discovered the secrets to perfect Air Fryer Juicy Cornish Hens, it’s time to indulge in a delectable meal. Enjoy!
