Ingredients:

  • 2 Cornish Game Hens (1.25 lbs each)
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil
  • 2 tsp Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, leaves stripped
  • 1 lemon, zested

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Note: This high heat is essential for the skin to crisp before the meat overcooks.
  2. Pat the 2 Cornish Game Hens dry with paper towels. Keep drying until the skin feels like parchment paper.
  3. Place one hen breast side down. Use shears to cut along both sides of the backbone to remove it entirely.
  4. Flip the bird over and press firmly on the center of the breastbone until you hear a loud crack and it lies flat.
  5. Rub the skin with 1 tbsp avocado oil. Note: This acts as the glue for your dry seasonings.
  6. Whisk the salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper together, then sprinkle evenly over both sides of the hens.
  7. In a small bowl, mash the 4 tbsp softened butter with the rosemary, thyme, and lemon zest.
  8. Carefully lift the skin over the breast and stuff the herb butter directly onto the meat.
  9. Roast for 45 minutes on a rimmed baking sheet until the skin is deep golden and the internal temp hits 165°F.
  10. Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Note: This allows the fibers to relax and reabsorb the juices.