Herb-Roasted Cornish Hen - Ingredients (Lean Version)

Herb-Roasted Cornish Hen – Ingredients (Lean Version)

This herb-roasted Cornish hen is a lean, flavorful main dish seasoned with fresh herbs, citrus, and a light drizzle of olive oil. It’s perfect for holiday dinners or special weeknights when you want tender, juicy poultry without heavy gravies or butter.

Serving Size: 2 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 45–50 minutes

Total Time: 55–60 minutes

Calories: ~450 per serving (estimate)

Ingredients

• 1 Cornish hen (1–1.5 lb)

• 1 tbsp softened butter

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves of minced garlic

• 1/4 finely chopped yellow onion

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried rosemary

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1 lemon, halved

• Fresh parsley (garnish)

Instructions

1. Prep the hens: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the Cornish hen dry with paper towels and place it on a roasting rack set inside a baking dish.

2. Season: Rub the hen lightly with olive oil. Season all over with pink Himalayan salt, black pepper, garlic, and your dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano).

3. Add aromatics: Stuff the cavity with lemon slices and a sprig of fresh herbs, if using. Place extra lemon slices and garlic cloves around the hen in the pan.

4. Roast: Roast for 25 minutes, then baste with the juices from the pan. Continue roasting for another 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Rest: Remove the hen from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This helps keep the meat juicy.

6. Serve: Cut the hen in half or quarters and serve with roasted vegetables, lean mashed potatoes, or your favorite Quick Lean Kitchen side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Herb-Roasted Cornish Hen

- Perfect for small holiday gatherings or special weeknight dinners.

- Uses simple ingredients like fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, and olive oil.

- Naturally lean—no deep frying or heavy cream sauces required.

- Cooks faster than a whole turkey but still feels elegant and impressive.

Calories

Approx. 470 calories per serving.

Wine Pairing

Pairs well with:

• Chardonnay

• Light Pinot Noir