Top 27 Cornish Hen Air Fryer Recipes [NOT TO MISS]

Cornish hens are a delightful and tender poultry option that offers a unique dining experience. With their small size and succulent flavor, they are perfect for individual servings or intimate gatherings. When cooked in an air fryer, Cornish hens develop a crispy skin while remaining juicy and flavorful on the inside. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 27 mouthwatering Cornish hen air fryer recipes that are sure to elevate your culinary repertoire.

Cooking Cornish hens in an air fryer offers several advantages. Firstly, the air fryer’s rapid circulation of hot air ensures that the hens cook evenly and quickly, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Secondly, using an air fryer significantly reduces the amount of oil needed for cooking, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. Lastly, the compact size of the air fryer makes it ideal for preparing individual portions, making it perfect for small households or dinner parties.

Before diving into the recipes, let’s briefly discuss some tips for preparing Cornish hens in an air fryer:

Tips For Cooking Cornish Hens In An Air Fryer

1. Thaw Completely: Ensure that your Cornish hens are completely thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. Season Well: Cornish hens are flavorful on their own but benefit from seasoning. Don’t be afraid to use herbs, spices, and marinades to enhance their taste.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating your air fryer ensures that it’s at the optimal temperature for cooking, resulting in better texture and flavor.

4. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the hens are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee they are safe to eat.

5. Allow Resting Time: Let the cooked hens rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum flavor and tenderness.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s explore 27 tantalizing Cornish hen air fryer recipes that will delight your taste buds.

Top 27 Cornish Hen Air Fryer Recipes

1. Classic Herb-Roasted Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried sage, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
5. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

2. Honey Mustard Glazed Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the honey mustard glaze all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 20 minutes.
5. Flip the hens breast side up and brush with more glaze.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

3. Lemon Garlic Butter Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the lemon garlic butter mixture all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
5. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

4. Cajun-Spiced Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 20 minutes.
5. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

5. Teriyaki Glazed Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• ½ cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine the teriyaki sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
3. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
4. Brush the teriyaki glaze all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 20 minutes.
6. Flip the hens breast side up and brush with more glaze.
7. Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
9. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

6. Barbecue Rubbed Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• ¼ cup barbecue rub
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. Rub the barbecue rub all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the hens and rub it in.
4. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
5. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

7. Orange Glazed Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• ½ cup orange marmalade
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine the orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Cook over medium heat until the marmalade is melted and the sauce is smooth, about 5 minutes.
4. Brush the orange glaze all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 20 minutes.
6. Flip the hens breast side up and brush with more glaze.
7. Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
9. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

8. Garlic Parmesan Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the Parmesan mixture all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
5. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

9. Lemon Pepper Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon pepper seasoning, dried thyme, and salt.
3. Rub the lemon pepper mixture all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 20 minutes.
5. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

10. Cranberry Glazed Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• ½ cup cranberry sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
4. Brush the cranberry glaze all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 20 minutes.
6. Flip the hens breast side up and brush with more glaze.
7. Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

11. Maple Glazed Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is well combined, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Brush the maple glaze all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 20 minutes.
6. Flip the hens breast side up and brush with more glaze.
7. Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

12. Herb-Stuffed Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. Season the cavity of each Cornish hen with salt and pepper.
3. Stuff each hen with 2 sprigs of rosemary, 2 sprigs of thyme, 2 smashed garlic cloves, and lemon slices.
4. Truss the hens with kitchen twine to secure the stuffing.
5. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
6. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

13. Pesto-Rubbed Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• ¼ cup prepared pesto
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. Rub the prepared pesto all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Season the hens with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
5. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

14. Lemon Herb Butter Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb butter mixture all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
5. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

15. Balsamic Glazed Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is thick and syrupy, about 5 minutes.
4. Brush the balsamic glaze all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 20 minutes.
6. Flip the hens breast side up and brush with more glaze.
7. Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

16. Italian Herb Marinated Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• ¼ cup Italian dressing
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the Cornish hens in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
5. Remove the hens from the marinade and discard any excess.
6. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
7. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

17. Brown Sugar Glazed Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce is smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Brush the brown sugar glaze all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 20 minutes.
6. Flip the hens breast side up and brush with more glaze.
7. Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

18. Chipotle Lime Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced chipotle peppers, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the chipotle lime mixture all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 20 minutes.
5. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

19. Herb-Crusted Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the Cornish hens with olive oil and dredge them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
5. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

20. Garlic Herb Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the garlic herb butter mixture all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
5. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

21. Paprika-Rubbed Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the paprika mixture all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 20 minutes.
5. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

22. Cranberry Pecan Stuffed Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• 1 cup cooked wild rice
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the cooked wild rice, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each Cornish hen with the rice mixture until they are full but not overstuffed.
4. Truss the hens with kitchen twine to secure the stuffing.
5. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
6. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

23. Lemon Garlic Cornish Hens With Potatoes

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 small potatoes, quartered

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the quartered potatoes in half of the lemon garlic butter mixture and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket.
5. Rub the remaining lemon garlic butter mixture all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
6. Place the hens on top of the potatoes in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
7. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are tender.
8. Remove the hens and potatoes from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

24. Cranberry Apple Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 apple, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, diced apple, honey, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
4. Stuff each Cornish hen with the cranberry apple mixture until they are full but not overstuffed.
5. Truss the hens with kitchen twine to secure the stuffing.
6. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
7. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

25. Coconut Lime Cornish Hens

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• ½ cup coconut milk
• Zest of 1 lime
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, ground coriander, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the coconut lime mixture all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the hens in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 20 minutes.
5. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

26. Rosemary Garlic Cornish Hens With Root Vegetables

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 parsnips, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 onion, peeled and cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the carrots, parsnips, and onion in half of the rosemary garlic butter mixture and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the vegetables in the air fryer basket.
5. Rub the remaining rosemary garlic butter mixture all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
6. Place the hens on top of the vegetables in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
7. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
8. Remove the hens and vegetables from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

27. Mustard Herb Cornish Hens With Brussels Sprouts

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens, thawed
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, olive oil, chopped fresh thyme, chopped fresh rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the Brussels sprouts in half of the mustard herb mixture and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket.
5. Rub the remaining mustard herb mixture all over the Cornish hens, ensuring they are evenly coated.
6. Place the hens on top of the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
7. Flip the hens breast side up and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the Brussels sprouts are tender.
8. Remove the hens and Brussels sprouts from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Cornish hens in an air fryer opens up a world of culinary possibilities. From classic herb-roasted hens to innovative flavor combinations like cranberry apple and coconut lime, there’s a recipe to suit every taste preference. With the air fryer’s ability to cook food quickly and evenly, you can enjoy tender and juicy Cornish hens with crispy skin in a fraction of the time it takes to roast them in the oven. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, these 27 Cornish hen air fryer recipes are sure to impress your family and guests alike. So fire up your air fryer and get ready to elevate your poultry game to new heights!

Top 10 Global Flavors

Cornish hens, also known as Cornish game hens, are a breed of chicken that originated in Cornwall, England. They are small-sized poultry, typically weighing around 1 to 2 pounds each, making them perfect for individual servings. Despite their name, they are not game birds but rather a cross between Cornish chickens and other breeds.

Air fryers have gained popularity in recent years due to their ability to produce crispy, delicious food with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. They work by circulating hot air around the food, cooking it evenly and creating a crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist and tender. This makes them an excellent choice for cooking Cornish hens, as they help achieve that perfect balance of texture and flavor.

In the following sections, we’ll explore a variety of Cornish hen air fryer recipes, drawing inspiration from global cuisines, sharing personal favorites, and providing tips and tricks for successful air fryer cooking.

1. Mediterranean Style Cornish Hens

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish hens, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. Rub the Cornish hen halves with olive oil and minced garlic, then season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
3. Place a few slices of lemon on top of each hen half.
4. Air fry for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through cooking.

Serve with couscous or roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean meal.

2. Asian Glazed Cornish Hens

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish hens, halved
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
3. Brush the Cornish hen halves with the sauce mixture, reserving some for basting.
4. Air fry for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting with the sauce halfway through cooking.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Pair with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for an Asian-inspired feast.

3. Tex-Mex Cornish Hens

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish hens, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Tex-Mex seasoning
• 1 lime, sliced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Sour cream and salsa for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (187°C).
2. Rub the Cornish hen halves with olive oil and Tex-Mex seasoning.
3. Place a few slices of lime on top of each hen half.
4. Air fry for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through cooking.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with sour cream and salsa on the side.

Enjoy with warm tortillas and your favorite Mexican-inspired sides.

4. Italian Herb-Stuffed Cornish Hens

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish hens, halved
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Gently loosen the skin of each Cornish hen half and spread the herb butter mixture underneath the skin.
4. Air fry for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through cooking.
5. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the hens before eating.

Pair with roasted potatoes and a crisp green salad for a taste of Italy.

5. Indian Spiced Cornish Hens

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish hens, halved
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons Indian curry paste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together plain yogurt, Indian curry paste, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the Cornish hen halves with the yogurt mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Air fry for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through cooking.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Serve with basmati rice and naan bread for an authentic Indian meal experience.

6. Caribbean Jerk Cornish Hens

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish hens, halved
• 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Sliced pineapple for serving
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rub the Cornish hen halves with jerk seasoning and olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, lime juice, and honey.
4. Brush the hen halves with the pineapple juice mixture.
5. Air fry for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through cooking.
6. Serve with sliced pineapple and garnish with fresh parsley.

Pair with coconut rice and grilled plantains for a taste of the tropics.

7. Greek Lemon Garlic Cornish Hens

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish hens, halved
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the Cornish hen halves with the lemon garlic mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Air fry for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through cooking.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve with roasted potatoes and a Greek salad for a taste of the Mediterranean.

8. French Herb-Roasted Cornish Hens

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish hens, halved
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped tarragon, salt, and pepper.
3. Gently loosen the skin of each Cornish hen half and spread the herb butter mixture underneath the skin.
4. Air fry for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through cooking.
5. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the hens before eating.

Pair with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic French meal.

9. Thai Coconut Lime Cornish Hens

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish hens, halved
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• Zest and juice of 2 limes
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
• Sliced red chili for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lime zest, lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro.
3. Rub the Cornish hen halves with the coconut lime mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Air fry for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through cooking.
5. Garnish with sliced red chili before serving.

Serve with jasmine rice and steamed bok choy for a taste of Thailand.

10. Moroccan Spiced Cornish Hens

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish hens, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Moroccan spice blend
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons chopped dried apricots
• Chopped fresh mint for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rub the Cornish hen halves with olive oil and Moroccan spice blend, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth and honey.
4. Place the Cornish hen halves in the air fryer basket and pour the broth mixture over them.
5. Sprinkle chopped dried apricots over the hens.
6. Air fry for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through cooking.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh mint before serving.

Pair with couscous and roasted vegetables for a taste of Morocco.

My Favorite Air Fryer Recipe

Among the plethora of delicious Cornish hen air fryer recipes, one of my favorites is the Mediterranean Style Cornish Hens. The combination of olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs creates a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the tender and juicy meat of the Cornish hens. Plus, the crispy skin achieved through air frying adds an irresistible texture to the dish. Paired with couscous or roasted vegetables, it’s a meal that never fails to impress both guests and family alike.

Tips And Tricks For Successful Air Fryer Cooking

Cooking with an air fryer can be a game-changer in the kitchen, but it’s essential to keep a few tips and tricks in mind for successful results:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Just like with traditional ovens, preheating your air fryer ensures that your food cooks evenly and efficiently.

2. Use Oil Sparingly: While air fryers require less oil than traditional frying methods, using too much oil can still lead to greasy results. Use a light hand when oiling your ingredients or invest in a non-aerosol oil sprayer for even distribution.

3. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: To ensure proper air circulation and crispiness, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary, rather than piling ingredients on top of each other.

4. Flip or Shake Midway: For even cooking, flip or shake your food halfway through the cooking process. This helps achieve uniform browning and crispiness on all sides.

5. Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid undercooking or overcooking your food, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For poultry like Cornish hens, the safe internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).

6. Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings and flavorings. Experiment with different spice blends, marinades, and sauces to discover unique flavor combinations.

7. Clean Regularly: To maintain optimal performance and prevent lingering odors, clean your air fryer regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Time-Saving Strategies For Busy Cooks

For busy cooks looking to streamline meal preparation, here are some time-saving strategies when cooking Cornish hens in the air fryer:

1. Prep Ahead: Prepare your Cornish hens by seasoning or marinating them ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook, allowing for quick and easy assembly when it’s time to air fry.

2. Batch Cooking: Cook multiple Cornish hens at once and store any leftovers for future meals. They can be reheated in the air fryer for a quick and convenient dinner option.

3. Utilize Frozen Ingredients: Take advantage of frozen Cornish hens or pre-cut vegetables for even faster meal prep. Simply thaw or defrost as needed before air frying.

4. One-Pot Meals: Create one-pot meals by adding vegetables or grains directly into the air fryer basket with the Cornish hens. This minimizes cleanup and ensures a complete meal in one cooking cycle.

5. Meal Planning: Plan your meals in advance and incorporate Cornish hen air fryer recipes into your weekly menu. This allows you to shop efficiently and reduces the stress of figuring out what to cook each day.

Conclusion

Cornish hen air fryer recipes offer a delicious and convenient way to enjoy flavorful poultry dishes with crispy skin and tender meat. From Mediterranean to Asian-inspired flavors, there’s a wide range of global cuisines to explore, each offering its own unique twist on this versatile ingredient. With the right techniques and a bit of creativity, you can elevate your air fryer cooking game and impress your family and friends with mouthwatering Cornish hen meals. So fire up your air fryer, and get ready to savor the delightful flavors of these Cornish hen recipes from around the world.