Smoked Cornish Game Hen Recipes for Flavorful Dinners

Smoked Cornish game hens are a delightful and elegant dish that brings a lovely smoky flavor to tender, juicy poultry. These petite birds are perfect for individual servings, making them ideal for dinner parties, special occasions, or a cozy weekend meal.

Smoking infuses the hens with a rich aroma and depth that roasting or grilling alone can’t quite achieve. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a home cook looking to experiment with smoking techniques, this recipe will guide you through creating mouthwatering smoked Cornish game hens that impress with every bite.

In this post, you’ll find not only the classic smoked Cornish game hen recipe but also some creative variations to suit different tastes and occasions. Prepare to elevate your poultry game with smoky goodness, crisp skin, and juicy meat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something truly special about smoked Cornish game hens. Their small size means they cook quickly and are perfect for portion control without sacrificing flavor.

This recipe balances aromatic herbs, spices, and a subtle smoky essence, resulting in a bird that’s bursting with flavor.

Plus, smoking adds a tender texture and a crispy, flavorful skin without drying out the meat. The overall process is straightforward, perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks wanting to impress their guests.

It pairs beautifully with a range of sides and salads, making it a versatile centerpiece for your meal.

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish game hens (about 1 to 1.5 pounds each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon (halved)
• 4 cloves garlic (crushed)
• Fresh herbs (such as rosemary and thyme sprigs for inside the hens)
• Wood chips (apple or hickory are ideal for smoking)

Equipment

• Smoker or charcoal/gas grill set up for indirect smoking
• Meat thermometer
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Sharp knife (for prepping the hens)
• Cutting board
• Aluminum foil (optional, for resting the hens)
• Tongs or heat-resistant gloves

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cornish game hens: Rinse the hens under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Remove any excess fat or giblets from the cavity.
2. Make the rub: In a mixing bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Add the olive oil and mix well to create a paste.
3. Season the hens: Rub the spice mixture all over the hens, including inside the cavity. Stuff each cavity with a lemon half, crushed garlic cloves, and fresh herb sprigs.
4. Preheat your smoker or grill: Set up for indirect heat at around 275°F (135°C). Add soaked wood chips to the smoker box or directly on the coals for smoke.
5. Place the hens on the smoker grate: Position the hens breast side up, away from direct heat. Close the lid and maintain temperature.
6. Smoke the hens: Cook for approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh. Baste occasionally with olive oil or pan drippings to keep the skin moist.
7. Rest the hens: Remove from smoker and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let rest for 10-15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
8. Serve: Carve or serve whole with your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

“For the best smoky flavor, soak your wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker. This helps create more smoke and less burning.”

• Brine the hens overnight in a simple saltwater brine to enhance juiciness and flavor.
• Try different wood chips: Mesquite for a stronger smoke, cherry for a sweeter flavor, or pecan for a nutty taste.
• Experiment with rubs: Add chili powder or cayenne for heat, or a sprinkle of brown sugar for a touch of sweetness.
• Stuff the cavity with aromatics like orange slices, rosemary, or sage for a different fragrant twist.
• For a crispy skin finish, increase smoker temperature to 350°F (175°C) for the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Smoked Cornish game hens pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider a fresh, crisp salad like the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for a light contrast to the rich smoky flavors.

For heartier sides, buttery mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables complement the smoky taste perfectly. You can also serve them alongside a classic wild rice pilaf or a vibrant vegetable medley to keep things colorful and nutritious.

If you’re interested in exploring more plant-based recipes to balance out your menu, try the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or the warming Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.

Conclusion

Smoking Cornish game hens is a fantastic way to impress guests and enjoy a flavorful, tender meal without hours of fuss. The combination of aromatic herbs, a smoky crust, and juicy meat makes this recipe a standout for any occasion.

Whether you’re preparing a fancy dinner or a weekend treat, these smoked hens deliver both elegance and comfort.

Don’t hesitate to customize the spice rub or wood chips to suit your personal taste, and feel free to experiment with different stuffing options. Paired with fresh sides and simple preparations, smoked Cornish game hens are sure to become a regular feature in your cooking repertoire.

Happy smoking and bon appétit!

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