I love Cornish game hens both for their rich flavor and also because they are quite economical. Most supermarkets sell frozen game hens for $2.50-$3.00 each. This is a simple one-pan meal of roasted game hens with potatoes and veggies.
Ingredients:
2 Cornish game hens
3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
½ tsp. kosher salt or to taste
¼ tsp. freshly cracked black pepper
1 tsp. fresh rosemary leaves, minced
½ tsp. lemon zest from ½ lemon
1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves
¼ tsp. garlic powder
1 lb. finger potatoes
2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
1 yellow onion, peeled and chopped
Method
- Preheat the oven to 450°F.
- In a medium mixing bowl, toss the vegetables with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt & pepper to taste.
- Combine the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon zest, garlic powder and herbs in a small bowl. Brush the hens on all sides with the olive oil mixture.
- Place the hens in a large casserole dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Arrange the prepared vegetables around the hens and place in the oven. Reduce the heat to 400°F.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes or just until hens reach 165°F with an instant-read thermometer and the vegetables are tender.
- Remove from the oven and loosely tent with foil for 10 minutes before cutting.
- Cut hens in half and serve.