Ingredients

The following ingredients have 2 Servings
  • 2 Cornish hens (Mine weighed 1 1/4 pounds each.)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • cooking oil (I use olive oil.)
  • 2-4 slices fresh lemon

Instruction

  • Spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil. Place the lemon slices in the basket.
  • Pat the cornish hens dry. I use paper towels.
  • Rub both sides of each bird with oil. Sprinkle the seasonings and spices on both sides.
  • Place the cornish hens breast side down in the air fryer on top of the lemons. You don't want the legs to overcook.
  • Air fry for 25 minutes on 350 degrees.
  • Open the basket and flip the corn hens. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until your cornish hens have reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Use a meat thermometer. If you like really crispy skin, adjust and add additional cook time as necesary.
  • Place the meat thermometer in the thickest part of the chicken, which is typically the chicken thigh area. I like to test the breast too, just to ensure the entire chicken is fully cooked
  • Remove the hens from the air fryer basket and place it on a plate to rest for at least 15 minutes before cutting into the chicken. This will allow the moisture to redistribute throughout the chicken before you cut into it.