Air Fryer Cornish Hen is made with 1 Cornish game hen, butter, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs; air fry at 380°F for 35 minutes to serve 2. 420 calories per serving.
Ingredients
Equipment
Steps
- 1
Pat hen completely dry inside and out. Place lemon half and thyme inside the cavity.
- 2
Mix softened butter with garlic powder, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub all over the hen and under the skin.
- 3
Air fry breast-side down at 380°F for 15 minutes.
- 4
Flip breast-side up and cook 15-20 more minutes until skin is golden and internal temp reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
- 5
Rest 10 minutes. Cut in half to serve.
Tip: Starting breast-side down lets the dark meat get a head start (it takes longer to cook). The lemon inside steams and flavors the meat from within. These are perfect for a dinner party — one hen serves two elegantly. Pat the skin very dry for the crispiest results.
Why Air Fry This?
- ⏱️Ready in 35 minutes vs ~63 in a conventional oven — no preheating needed.
- 🍖Circulating hot air renders fat and seals in juices for a crispier outside and tender inside.
- ⚡Uses significantly less energy than heating a full-size oven for a single batch.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Cook Air Fryer Cornish Hen at 380°F for 35 minutes. Starting breast-side down lets the dark meat get a head start (it takes longer to cook). The lemon inside steams and flavors the meat from within. These are perfect for a dinner party — one hen serves two elegantly. Pat the skin very dry for the crispiest results.
You need: 1 Cornish game hen (about 1.5 lbs), 2 tbsp butter, softened, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs, 1/2 tsp paprika, Salt and pepper, 1/2 lemon, Fresh thyme sprigs, Roasted vegetables, Mashed potatoes, Pan gravy. This recipe serves 2 with 420 calories per serving.
Air Fryer Cornish Hen takes 35 minutes total at 380°F. Rest 10 minutes. Cut in half to serve.
This recipe is rated Medium. It serves 2 and takes just 35 minutes at 380°F.
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