Are you looking for a delicious and simple meal that feels gourmet but is easy to prepare? This Air Fryer Cornish Hen recipe is the perfect solution! With a crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful meat, these hens are sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe has you covered.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Cornish Hen

Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy nights.
Healthy: Air frying reduces the need for excess oil.
Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides.
Gourmet Feel: Impress your guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 Cornish hens (about 1.5 pounds each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 lemon, quartered
Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)

How to Make Air Fryer Cornish Hen

Prep the Hens: Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens. Rub each hen with olive oil.
Season: In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the hens, including inside the cavity.
Stuff and Tie: Stuff each hen with lemon quarters and rosemary sprigs if using. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 5 minutes.
Cook: Place the hens breast-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for 25 minutes. Flip the hens and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
Rest and Serve: Let the hens rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

MORE RECIPES: Oreo Cookies Recipe & Oreo Ice Cream Recipe

Variations and Tips

Herb Butter: Rub the hens with herb butter under the skin for extra flavor.
Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
Citrus Twist: Use orange or lime instead of lemon for a different flavor profile.
Tips: Ensure the hens are not touching in the air fryer for even cooking. If your air fryer is small, cook the hens one at a time.

How to Store Air Fryer Cornish Hen

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: You can freeze the cooked Cornish hens for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes or until warmed through.

Air Fryer Cornish Hen Recipe

Recipe by Rose HernandezCourse: MainCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

Ingredients

2 Cornish hens (about 1.5 pounds each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 lemon, quartered
Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)

Directions

Prep the Hens: Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens. Rub each hen with olive oil.
Season: In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the hens, including inside the cavity.
Stuff and Tie: Stuff each hen with lemon quarters and rosemary sprigs if using. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 5 minutes.
Cook: Place the hens breast-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for 25 minutes. Flip the hens and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
Rest and Serve: Let the hens rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!