How to Cook Cornish Hens in a NuWave Oven: A Step-by-Step Guide for Mouthwatering Results!

Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to cook Cornish hens? Look no further than your trusty NuWave oven! This versatile appliance can create crispy, juicy, and flavorful hens, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This guide will walk you through the process, from prepping the hens to achieving the perfect golden brown crust.

Why Choose Cornish Hens?

Cornish hens are a smaller, more tender variety of chicken, making them ideal for individual servings. They cook quickly and evenly, resulting in moist, flavorful meat. Plus, their smaller size means less prep work and quicker cleanup!

Choosing the Right Cornish Hens

Before you start cooking, selecting the right Cornish hens is crucial. Look for hens that are plump, firm, and have a bright, even color. Avoid hens with any signs of bruising or discoloration.

Prepping the Cornish Hens

Once you’ve chosen your hens, it’s time to prepare them for cooking. Here’s a simple guide:
1. Rinse and Pat Dry: Rinse the hens thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Seasoning: Season the hens generously with your favorite blend of herbs and spices. Popular options include salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. You can also use a pre-made poultry seasoning blend.
3. Stuffing (Optional): If desired, stuff the hens with a bread-based stuffing or a simple herb and vegetable mixture.
4. Tie the Legs: Tie the legs of the hens together using kitchen twine. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents the legs from drying out.

Cooking the Cornish Hens in Your NuWave Oven

Now for the fun part – cooking! Here’s how to achieve perfect Cornish hens in your NuWave oven:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your NuWave oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the Hens: Place the Cornish hens in the NuWave oven rack, ensuring enough space between them for even heat circulation.
3. Cooking Time: The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your hens and your desired level of doneness. A general guideline is 45-60 minutes.
4. Check for Doneness: To ensure the hens are cooked through, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Resting: Once cooked, let the hens rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bird.

Tips for Success

Here are some additional tips to ensure your Cornish hens turn out perfectly:

• Basting: For extra moisture and flavor, baste the hens with melted butter or chicken broth every 15-20 minutes during cooking.
• Roasting Pan: Place a roasting pan underneath the NuWave oven rack to catch any drippings.
• Temperature Monitoring: Monitor the internal temperature of the hens throughout the cooking process to ensure they are cooked evenly.
• Don’t Overcook: Overcooked Cornish hens will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the proper internal temperature.

Serving and Enjoying Your Cornish Hens

Once your Cornish hens are cooked to perfection, it’s time to enjoy! Serve them with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Beyond the Basics: Flavor Variations

Get creative with your Cornish hens! Here are some flavor variations to try:

• Lemon Herb: Rub the hens with a mixture of lemon zest, fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, and olive oil.
• Honey Garlic: Combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a sweet and savory glaze.
• Spicy Rub: Use a blend of paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.

The End of the Meal, Not the Adventure:

Cooking Cornish hens in your NuWave oven is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful poultry. Experiment with different seasonings and cooking techniques to find your favorite way to prepare these delightful birds. Bon appétit!

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Can I cook Cornish hens in the NuWave oven with the lid on?
A: While it’s possible to cook Cornish hens in the NuWave oven with the lid on, it’s not recommended. The lid can trap moisture, preventing the skin from getting crispy.
Q: How do I know when the Cornish hens are done?
A: The best way to determine doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
Q: What can I do with the leftover Cornish hens?
A: Leftover Cornish hens can be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, or soups. You can also freeze them for later use.
Q: Can I cook Cornish hens in the NuWave oven with the rotisserie function?
A: Some NuWave oven models have a rotisserie function. If your oven has this feature, you can use it to cook Cornish hens. However, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.