Deep-Frying Cornish Hens: Air Fryer Time Perfection

Cornish hens are a great option for a quick and easy meal, and using an air fryer is an excellent way to ensure tender meat and crispy skin. The cooking time will depend on the size of your Cornish hens and the temperature you set your air fryer to, but on average, it should take around 30-45 minutes to cook Cornish hens in an air fryer.

How long to deep fry Cornish hens in an air fryer

Cornish hens are a great option for a quick and easy meal that can be made in your air fryer. They are a smaller breed of poultry, typically weighing between one and two pounds, and can be cooked in about 30 to 45 minutes. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to deep fry Cornish hens in an air fryer:

Preparation

First, you will need to gather your ingredients and prepare your air fryer. Make sure your air fryer is preheated to the desired temperature, which can range from 350 to 390 degrees Fahrenheit. You will also want to pat the Cornish hens dry with paper towels and rub them with olive oil.

Spices and Seasoning

For spices and seasoning, you can use a variety of options such as onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and other herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil. Mix your chosen spices and seasoning in a small bowl and then rub them all over the Cornish hens, making sure to get inside the cavities as well.

Cooking

Once your hens are prepared and seasoned, it is time to cook them in the air fryer. Place the hens breast-side down in the air fryer basket and cook for 20 to 30 minutes. Then, flip the hens and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Resting and Serving

After cooking, remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for about 10 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat extra juicy and tender. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary.

Tips

• It is recommended to bring the hens to room temperature before air frying for the best results.
• Always check the internal temperature of the hens with a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through.
• You can also wrap the hens with bacon and secure it with a toothpick for added flavour.
• If using frozen hens, make sure they are fully thawed before cooking and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Pre-heat and prep

To make the most of your time and ensure an even cook, it's best to preheat your air fryer. Depending on the model, you may not need to do this, so be sure to check your manual. The ideal temperature for cooking Cornish hens is around 350–390 °F (176–200 °C).

Before placing your hens in the air fryer, it's important to prep them properly. Start by patting them dry with paper towels. This will help to ensure that the skin becomes crispy during the cooking process. You can then rub the hens with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper, or a variety of other spices and herbs. Some suggestions include onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, Italian seasoning, lemon zest, rosemary, and sage.

If you want to get ahead, you can season the hens and keep them covered in the fridge for up to two hours before cooking.

Oil and seasoning

When it comes to oil and seasoning, you have a lot of flexibility to make the dish your own. Here are some tips and suggestions to achieve the best results:

Oil

• Olive oil is a popular choice for air frying Cornish hens, but you can also use other light, neutral-flavored oils or melted butter.
• Use about one tablespoon of oil per hen, rubbing it evenly over the entire surface, including inside the cavity.
• Some recipes recommend lightly coating the air fryer basket or racks with oil or cooking spray before adding the hens to prevent sticking.

Seasoning

• You can use a variety of seasonings to flavour your Cornish hens, including salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, onion powder, and poultry seasoning.
• For a classic, peppery flavour, use poultry seasoning.
• Italian seasoning will bring out the chicken's tender, earthy taste.
• Lemon zest adds a simple yet sophisticated brightness.
• Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage can also be used to add extra flavour.
• You can lift up the breast skin and rub some seasoning directly on the breast meat for extra flavour.
• The amount of seasoning will depend on the size of the hens; use just enough to lightly coat them.
• If using a store-bought seasoning blend that includes salt, you may not need to add extra salt.
• You can also make your own seasoning blend or simply use salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for Cornish hens in an air fryer will vary depending on the size of the bird and the number of hens being cooked. It's important to note that the hens should be fully thawed before cooking and brought to room temperature for the best results. Additionally, the air fryer basket should be greased or sprayed with oil to prevent sticking, and the skin of the hens should be patted dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.

Most sources recommend cooking Cornish hens in an air fryer at a temperature between 350-390 degrees Fahrenheit (176-200 degrees Celsius). The cook time will depend on the size of the hens, but on average, it takes around 30-40 minutes to cook two 1-2 pound hens at this temperature range. For example, it may take up to 40 minutes to air fry a 2-pound game hen, and larger hens may need to be cooked one at a time if they don't fit in the air fryer basket. It's recommended to check the meat's temperature at the 30-35 minute mark to avoid overcooking. The thickest part of the bird, typically the thigh area, should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) before serving.

When cooking two Cornish hens in an air fryer, it's best to place them breast side down in the basket and cook them for 20 minutes. Then, flip them and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the desired internal temperature is reached. For a single Cornish hen, it's recommended to cook it breast side down for 30 minutes and then flip it for the remaining time.

It's worth noting that air fryer models may vary, so the cooking time and temperature may need adjustment. Additionally, some air fryers may require preheating, while others do not, so it's essential to refer to the specific instructions for your air fryer.

Resting and serving

After resting, you can carve and serve the hens. You can also season them with extra salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Some recipes suggest garnishing the hens with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley. You can also squeeze lemon juice over the hens for added flavour.

Cornish hens are ideal for serving one or two people, depending on their size. They are a great option for a date night or dinner party and can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as:

• Veggie and potato sides
• Gravy
• Salads
• Soups
• Sandwiches

Frequently asked questions