Lemon Sage Cornish Hens

DESCRIPTION

Lemon Sage Cornish Hens are an elegant and flavorful entrée that combines bright citrus, fresh herbs, and comforting roasted flavors. Tender Cornish hens are seasoned with Spicelopedia® Italian Lemon Pepper and roasted to golden perfection, creating crispy skin and juicy, succulent meat infused with layers of savory flavor. Fresh sage leaves tucked beneath the skin release an earthy aroma as they cook, while vibrant lemon wedges add a refreshing citrus balance that enhances every bite. Served with tender Yukon gold potatoes that soak up the flavorful pan drippings, this roasted Cornish hen recipe is a beautiful centerpiece for holiday gatherings, special dinners, or any occasion worth celebrating.

INGREDIENTS

Servings: 2

Cornish game hens (20–24 oz each)	2
Fresh sage leaves	12
Lemon wedges	4
Green onions, cut into 2” lengths	6, divided
Butter, melted	2 Tbsp
Olive oil	1 Tbsp
Lemon juice	1 Tbsp
Garlic cloves, minced	2
Spicelopedia® Italian Lemon Pepper seasoning	4 tsp
Small Yukon potatoes, halved	6

STEPS

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Using the back of a spoon or your fingers, gently loosen the skin from the Cornish game hen breasts. Place the sage leaves and 1 tsp Spicelopedia® Italian Lemon Pepper seasoning under the skin of each hen.
3. Stuff the cavities with the lemon wedges and one-third of the green onions. Tuck the wings underneath the hens and tie the legs together.
4. Place the hens in a small greased roasting pan.
5. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Spoon half of the mixture over the hens.
6. Sprinkle the remaining Spicelopedia® Italian Lemon Pepper seasoning evenly over the hens.
7. Bake for 30 minutes. Add the halved Yukon potatoes and remaining green onions to the pan.
8. Brush the hens with the remaining butter mixture and continue baking for approximately 30 more minutes, or until the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165–170°F and the potatoes are tender.
9. Remove the hens and place them on a serving platter. Stir the potatoes and onions to coat with the pan drippings, then serve alongside the hens.