Grilled Cornish Hens

Juicy grilled Cornish hens with crispy skin, marinated in garlic, lemon, and ginger. This easy grilled Cornish hens recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, served with fresh herbs and vegetables.

Ingredients

• 4 Cornish hens (1–1.5 lb each), thawed
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper

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Instructions

Prep the Cornish Hens

1. Pat the hens dry with paper towels.
2. Place each hen skin side down on a cutting board.
3. Using kitchen shears, cut along one side of the backbone from tail to neck, then along the other side to remove it completely.
4. Turn the hen over and bend the legs outward. Press firmly on the breast until you hear the breastbone crack. Repeat with remaining hens.

Make the Marinade

1. In a large bowl or Ziploc bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the hens and massage the marinade over each bird until fully coated.

Grill the Hens

1. Preheat half of the grill to 350°F (180°C). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
2. Place the hens breast side up over the heat. Brush with remaining marinade.
3. Cover and cook for 5 minutes, then flip and continue grilling for 15–25 minutes until fully cooked.

Serve

1. Remove hens from the grill and allow to rest for a few minutes.
2. Serve whole or halved.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy skin with juicy, flavorful meat.
• Quick and easy to prepare for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
• Bright citrus and garlic marinade adds fresh, zesty flavor.

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Tips

• Patting the hens dry ensures crispier skin.
• Use a meat thermometer to check that internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Grill over indirect heat for even cooking.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Herbs: Swap parsley with thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
• Citrus: Replace lemon juice with orange or lime juice for a different flavor.
• Spices: Add paprika, cumin, or chili flakes for a spicier version.

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FAQs

Can I cook Cornish hens in the oven instead?
Yes, roast at 375°F (190°C) for 45–55 minutes, brushing with marinade halfway through.

Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes, marinate hens for up to 4 hours in the fridge before grilling.

Are Cornish hens the same as small chickens?
Cornish hens are younger and smaller than typical chickens, which makes them ideal for individual portions.

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Serving

• Serve with grilled vegetables, rice, or roasted potatoes.
• Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
• Ideal for family meals, dinner parties, or holiday gatherings.

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Suggestions

• Let the hens rest 5 minutes before carving to retain juices.
• Brush with extra marinade while resting for more flavor.
• Serve with a light salad for a balanced meal.