how to cook a cornish hen on the grill

3 min read 02-02-2025

Grilling Cornish hens offers a delicious and relatively quick way to enjoy this flavorful poultry. Their smaller size means they cook faster than a whole chicken, making them perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual outdoor gathering. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring juicy, perfectly grilled Cornish hens every time.

Preparing Your Cornish Hens for the Grill

Before you even think about firing up the grill, proper preparation is key to a delicious result. Here's what you need to do:

1. Thawing and Cleaning:

Thaw completely: Ensure your Cornish hens are fully thawed before grilling. A partially frozen hen will cook unevenly.
Rinse and pat dry: Rinse the hens under cold water and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This helps achieve crispy skin.

2. Marinades and Seasonings (Optional but Recommended):

Marinades add incredible flavor and moisture. Experiment with your favorites! Here are a few ideas:

Herb marinade: Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and salt and pepper.
Citrus marinade: Combine orange or grapefruit juice, olive oil, honey, and spices like cumin and paprika.
Spicy marinade: Use your favorite hot sauce, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.

Pro Tip: Marinate your hens for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor infusion.

3. Preparing the Grill:

Preheat to medium-high heat: A hot grill is crucial for proper searing and cooking.
Clean the grates: Clean the grill grates thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Grilling Your Cornish Hens: A Step-by-Step Process

Now for the fun part – grilling! Follow these steps for perfectly cooked Cornish hens:

Place hens on the grill: Carefully place the Cornish hens on the preheated grill grates.
Sear: Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side to achieve a nice sear. This will help lock in the juices and create a crispy skin.
Cook through: Reduce the heat to medium and continue grilling, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. This typically takes another 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the hens and the heat of your grill.
Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring the hens are cooked through and safe to eat. Don't rely solely on visual cues.
Rest: Once cooked, remove the hens from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.

Serving Your Grilled Cornish Hens

Grilled Cornish hens are incredibly versatile. Serve them with a variety of sides, such as:

Grilled vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions all pair well with grilled Cornish hens.
Potato salad: A classic side dish that complements the savory flavor of the hens.
Corn on the cob: Sweet corn adds a nice sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
Rice pilaf: A flavorful rice dish enhances the overall meal.

Tips for Grilling Perfect Cornish Hens Every Time

Don't overcrowd the grill: Overcrowding will lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary.
Baste regularly: Basting with the marinade or melted butter during cooking keeps the hens moist and adds flavor.
Consider indirect heat: For extra juicy Cornish hens, you can use indirect heat for part of the cooking process. This involves placing the hens over an area of the grill where the heat is less intense.
Experiment with different flavors: Don't be afraid to experiment with different marinades and seasonings to find your favorite combination.

By following these simple steps, you can easily grill delicious and juicy Cornish hens that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!