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Cornish hens are a delightful choice for a festive meal, offering a unique and flavorful alternative to traditional chicken. Their small size and tender meat make them perfect for special occasions, ensuring that each bite is a burst of flavor. With the autumn season upon us, this recipe incorporates seasonal harvest vegetables that complement the main dish beautifully.

Herb Roast Cornish Hens with Autumn Vegetables

A flavorful dish featuring Cornish hens roasted with autumn vegetables and fragrant herbs.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 3.0 lbs Cornish hens
  • 2.0 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4.0 cloves garlic
  • 1.0 tablespoons fresh rosemary
  • 1.0 tablespoons fresh thyme
  • 1.0 tablespoons fresh sage
  • 2.0 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 1.0 to taste salt
  • 1.0 to taste black pepper
  • 2.0 cups baby carrots
  • 2.0 cups Brussels sprouts
  • 4.0 cups butternut squash
  • 1.0 medium red onion
  • 1.0 cup chicken broth
  • 1.0 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1.0 for garnish fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a herb paste.
  • Pat the Cornish hens dry with paper towels. Place them on a roasting pan. Gently loosen the skin over the breast area and rub half of the herb mixture directly onto the meat under the skin. Rub the remaining mixture all over the outer skin of the hens.
  • In a large bowl, combine the baby carrots, Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat.
  • Spread the seasoned vegetables around the hens in the roasting pan. Pour in the chicken broth.
  • Place the pan in the preheated oven and roast for 55 minutes or until the hens reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Baste the hens with the pan juices halfway through the cooking time for extra flavor and moisture.
  • Once cooked, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Plate the hens alongside the roasted autumn vegetables.
  • Serve warm and enjoy the vibrant flavors of autumn!

Notes

Baste the hens halfway through cooking for added flavor.
Keyword autumn vegetables, cornish hens, herbs, roast