If you’re looking for a delicious and impressive dish to serve at your next dinner party or special occasion, look no further than our Best Easy Air Fryer Cornish Game Hens Recipe! These perfectly cooked game hens are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, making them a surefire crowd-pleaser. Using an air fryer not only reduces cooking time but also ensures a crispy skin while locking in all the delicious juices. Let’s dive into this simple yet impressive recipe that will elevate any meal.
**The Best Easy Air Fryer Cornish Game Hens Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 Cornish game hens
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prep the Cornish Game Hens:** Start by patting the Cornish game hens dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely in the air fryer. Place the hens on a clean cutting board.
2. **Season the Hens:** In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Rub this flavorful mixture all over the game hens, ensuring they are well coated inside and out.
3. **Preheat the Air Fryer:** Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
4. **Air Fry the Game Hens:** Carefully place the seasoned Cornish game hens into the preheated air fryer basket, breast side down. Cook for 25 minutes.
5. **Flip and Continue Cooking:** After 25 minutes, carefully flip the game hens so they are breast side up. Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
6. **Rest and Serve:** Once the Cornish game hens are cooked through, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.
7. **Garnish and Enjoy:** Garnish your beautifully cooked Cornish game hens with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a touch of added freshness. Serve them hot alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. Enjoy a delicious meal that will surely impress your guests!
Air fryer cooking is not only convenient but also yields fantastic results, as demonstrated by this fantastic Cornish game hens recipe. From its crispy skin to juicy meat and flavorful seasoning, this dish checks all the boxes for a memorable dining experience. So, next time you’re in the mood for a special dinner, give this recipe a try and wow your family and friends with your air fryer prowess!
