Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy recipe to try in your air fryer, look no further than this recipe for Cornish hen. Cornish hen, also known as Rock Cornish game hen, is a small breed of chicken that is perfect for individual servings. Cooking it in an air fryer ensures a crispy and flavorful result that you’ll love.
Ingredients
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 Cornish hen
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Cornish Hen
Start by patting the Cornish hen dry with paper towels. This will help ensure a crispy skin. Next, rub the olive oil all over the hen, making sure to coat it evenly.
Step 2: Seasoning the Hen
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture all over the hen, making sure to cover every surface.
Step 3: Preheating the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This will ensure that the hen cooks evenly and gets that perfect crispy skin.
Step 4: Air Frying the Hen
Place the seasoned Cornish hen in the air fryer basket, breast side down. Cook for 25 minutes. After that, flip the hen over and cook for an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Resting and Serving
Once the Cornish hen is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and juicy result. Serve the hen whole or cut it into pieces for individual servings.
Tips for Success
– Make sure to pat the hen dry before seasoning it. This helps achieve a crispy skin.
– If you want a spicier flavor, you can add some cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture.
– Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the hen in a single layer for the best results.
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure the hen is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
– Serve the Cornish hen with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Conclusion
This recipe for Cornish hen in the air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and crispy meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious dish that is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the juicy and tender meat with a perfectly crispy skin!