Ingredients
– 2 Cornish hens (1 to 1ยฝ pounds each, fully thawed)
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
– ยฝ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil for coating the hens
– 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
1-Getting started: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350ยฐF (176ยฐC) for optimal results, as this temperature helps achieve that golden, crispy skin. First, thoroughly dry the hens with paper towels and let them rest for a few minutes to prepare them for seasoning.
2-Next, mix together the spices: 1 teaspoon each of onion powder, garlic powder, paprika or smoked paprika, and Kosher salt, plus ยฝ teaspoon black pepper. Rub 1 tablespoon of olive oil evenly over all sides and inside the cavities of the hens to help the seasoning stick and promote crispiness. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mixture inside and outside the hens for full flavor.
3-Once seasoned, place the hens breast side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 20 minutes, then flip the hens and cook for another 15 to 17 minutes, or until the thickest part reaches 165ยฐF and the skin turns golden and crispy. Finally, remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving, and garnish with 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and taste.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
๐ Dry the hens thoroughly for extra crispy skin.
โฒ๏ธ Use a meat thermometer to check for the perfect internal temperature of 165ยฐF.
๐ Garnish with fresh herbs to enhance presentation and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Resting Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Cornish hen
- Calories: 975
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 70g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 45g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 78g
- Cholesterol: 250mg
