Cooking Cornish hens in a crock pot is a fantastic way to enjoy tender, flavorful poultry with minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, slow cooking these petite birds yields juicy meat that practically falls off the bone. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to cook Cornish hens in a crock pot, including preparation, seasoning, cooking times, and some tasty variations.
What Are Cornish Hens?
Cornish hens, also known as Cornish game hens, are small chickens weighing about 1 to 2 pounds each. They are prized for their delicate, tender meat and are often served as individual portions, making them perfect for elegant dinners or intimate meals. Despite the name, they are not game birds but a specific breed of young chicken.
What You’ll Need to Cook Cornish Hens in a Crock Pot
Before you start, gather these simple ingredients and tools:
– 2-3 Cornish hens (about 1.5 to 2 pounds each)
– Olive oil or butter for rubbing
– Salt and pepper
– Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, or your favorite herbs
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
– Optional: white wine for added flavor
– Optional vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Cornish Hens in a Crock Pot
1. Prepare the Hens
Start by removing any giblets from the cavity of each hen. Pat the hens dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick better. There’s no need to wash the hens before cooking, as this can spread bacteria in your kitchen.
2. Season the Hens
Rub the hens all over with olive oil or butter. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. For extra flavor, you can also rub some seasoning under the skin. This step ensures the meat is flavorful and aromatic.
3. Prepare the Crock Pot
Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the crock pot. This acts as a flavorful base and keeps the hens elevated slightly. If you like, add chopped carrots or potatoes at this stage for a complete meal.
4. Add the Hens and Liquids
Place the seasoned Cornish hens on top of the onions and vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and, if you’re using it, white wine around the hens. The liquid should come about halfway up the hens but not cover them completely. This helps keep the hens moist during cooking.
5. Cook the Hens
Cover the crock pot with its lid and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The hens are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meat is tender enough to easily pierce with a fork.
6. Optional: Baste and Glaze
If you want to elevate the flavor, baste the hens every hour with the cooking juices to keep them moist. In the last 30 minutes, you can brush them with a glaze made from honey, mustard, and thyme for a sweet and savory finish.
7. Rest and Serve
Remove the hens from the crock pot and let them rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat even juicier. Serve with your choice of sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.
Tips and Variations for Perfect Crock Pot Cornish Hens
– Add Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers can be cooked alongside the hens for a one-pot meal.
– Herb Variations: Experiment with Italian seasoning, cumin, or fresh herbs like parsley and thyme to change up the flavor profile.
– Use Whole Chicken: If Cornish hens are unavailable, a small whole chicken can be cooked similarly in the crock pot, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
– Butter and Broth: Adding butter slices on top of the hens before cooking enhances richness and moisture.
– Glazing: A honey-mustard glaze during the last cooking stage adds a beautiful color and flavor contrast.
Cooking Times by Size
| Hen Size | Low Heat (6-8 hours) | High Heat (3-4 hours) |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5 pounds | 6 hours | 3 hours |
| 2 pounds | 7 hours | 3.5 hours |
| 2.5 pounds | 8 hours | 4 hours |
Adjust cooking times based on the size of your hens to ensure they are cooked perfectly through.
Cooking Cornish hens in a crock pot is an easy, hands-off way to enjoy a juicy, flavorful meal. With simple seasoning and a few hours of slow cooking, you’ll have a beautiful dish ready to impress. Whether for a special occasion or a comforting dinner, this method is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!