If you’re looking to create an elegant dinner without spending hours in the kitchen, then look no further than Cornish hens. With their succulent flavor and juicy texture, these tiny birds make a delicious main dish that is sure to impress your loved ones. Not only are they easy to prepare and cook, but it’s also relatively quick; when baked at 350°F, usually about 45 minutes is enough time for them to be cooked through. In this blog post, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how long to cook Cornish hens at 350°F so you can enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.
What are the Cornish hens?
Cornish hens, also known as Rock Cornish game hens, are hybrid poultry birds that were created in the 1950s. They have a unique flavor and juicy texture that makes them popular for dinner parties and other special occasions. Although they look like small chickens, Cornish hens are actually young chickens of both sexes (hens) that have been bred to produce more meat in a shorter amount of time.

Nutritional benefits of eating Cornish hens
Cornish hens are a healthy and delicious source of protein. They’re also low in fat and calories, making them an ideal meal choice for those watching their weight. Additionally, Cornish hens contain essential nutrients like iron and zinc, as well as vitamin B12. Eating Cornish hens can help you meet your daily nutrient needs without having to consume large amounts of calories.
Why should you cook Cornish hens at 350 F?
Cooking Cornish hens at 350 F is the best way to achieve juicy, succulent results. This temperature is high enough to ensure that the birds cook quickly and evenly while still producing tender, moist meat. Additionally, cooking the hens at a higher temperature helps keep them from drying out and gives them a nice golden-brown color on the outside.
How to purchase Cornish hens for cooking at 350 F?
When purchasing Cornish hens, it’s important to look for birds that are plump and free of any bruises or discoloration. Additionally, make sure to check the expiration date on the package; you want your Cornish hens to be as fresh as possible for best results. Finally, if you’re buying frozen hens, make sure they are completely thawed before cooking them.
How to prepare Cornish hens before cooking them at 350 F?
Before cooking your Cornish hens at 350°F, it’s a good idea to prepare them first by removing the giblets from inside the bird. You’ll also want to season the birds on both sides with salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning blend. Finally, make sure to lightly coat them in oil or melted butter before placing them into the oven for the best results.

The cook Cornish hens recipe at 350 F
To cook Cornish hens at 350°F, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 Cornish hens
- Salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning blend to taste
- 1 tablespoon of melted butter or oil for coating
Now that you’ve prepared your Cornish hens, it’s time to get cooking. Here is a simple recipe for baking the birds at 350°F:
- Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly coat a baking dish with oil or melted butter.
- Place your prepared Cornish hens in the baking dish and season with salt and pepper or your favorite seasonings.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes or until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached.
- Remove from oven and let rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.
How long to cook Cornish hens at 350 F?
For the best results, it’s recommended to cook Cornish hens at 350°F for 45 minutes or until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached. However, if you’re unsure about the doneness of your hens, use a meat thermometer to double check before serving. This will help ensure that your hens are cooked through and safe to eat.
Factors affect the cooking time of Cornish hens at 350 F
That how long to cook Cornish hens at 350 F can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the birds and how well they are prepared. Additionally, if you’re using frozen hens, the cooking time may need to be increased slightly to account for the extra moisture from thawing. It’s also important to make sure that your oven is preheated to the correct temperature and your baking dish is lightly oiled before placing the hens into the oven.
Adjusting the time to cook Cornish hens at 350 F in cases
If you find that your Cornish hens are overcooked, simply reduce how long to cook Cornish hens at 350 slightly next time. For example, if the birds were cooked for 45 minutes at 350°F and came out overdone, try reducing the cooking time to 40 minutes instead. If your hens turn out undercooked, increase the cooking time to 50 minutes and check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer before serving.
Tips for cooking Cornish hens at 350 F enough time perfectly
Here are some tips to help you achieve perfectly cooked Cornish hens at 350°F:
- Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature before baking.
- Lightly coat a baking dish with oil or melted butter before placing the hens in it.
- Season the birds with salt and pepper or your favorite seasonings on both sides before baking.
- Monitor the internal temperature of your hens with a meat thermometer to ensure that they are cooked through and safe to eat.
- Let the birds rest for at least 10 minutes before serving, as this helps keep them juicy and tender.

Ideas to enjoy and serve with your Cornish hens at 350 F
After cooking your Cornish hens at 350°F, it’s time to enjoy them! Serve up the birds with some of your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also use the leftovers to make delicious sandwiches or salads for lunch the next day. No matter how you choose to serve them, Cornish hens cooked at 350°F are sure to be a hit.
Conclusion: How long to cook Cornish hens at 350
We hope this article has provided helpful information on how long to cook Cornish hens at 350 F. Remember, the key to achieving delicious results is preheating the oven to the correct temperature and monitoring the internal temperature of the birds with a meat thermometer for safety. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to make perfect Cornish hens every time.
FAQ: cooking Cornish hens at 350
Should Cornish hens be rinsed before cooking at 350 F?
Get the perfect Cornish hens by following these simple steps. First, preheat your oven to 350F. Then, lightly oil or spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Next, give your Cornish game hens a quick rinse with cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Finally, split the hens in half by cutting down the backbone and through the breastbone. You’ll be on your way to a delicious meal in no time.
How long to cook 2 Cornish hens at 350?
Cooking Time for 2 Cornish Hens at 350°F: Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place the hens on a baking sheet. Cover with foil and cook for 45 minutes.
Should Cornish hens be cooked covered or uncovered at 350 F?
Discover the key to succulent Cornish hens with this straightforward recipe. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal results. Then, simply place the hens on a prepared baking sheet and cover loosely with foil. Let them cook in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes. To ensure they are cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the hens reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Should Cornish hens be room temp before cooking at 350 F?
Prepare the perfect Cornish hens by allowing them to come to room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking at 350°F. This simple step ensures a mouthwatering, succulent meal every time.
Do you cover Cornish hens when baking at 350 F?
Ensure perfectly cooked Cornish hens every time by following these simple steps. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a baking sheet and place the hens on it. To keep them moist and tender, loosely cover the hens with foil. Let them cook in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Don’t forget to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, ensuring they reach a safe minimum of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before removing from the oven.
How do you tell if a Cornish hen is done when cooking at 350 F?
Determining the doneness of a Cornish hen at 350°F can be easily achieved. Simply employ a reliable meat thermometer to gauge its thorough cooking. Insert the thermometer into the thickest section of the bird, ensuring it doesn’t come into contact with the bone, as this could yield an unreliable result. Look for the internal temperature to reach a minimum of 165°F.
How long does it take to smoke a Cornish hen at 350 degrees?
Discover the perfect timing to smoke this delightful Cornish hens – small chickens. Begin by cooking the hens at 225°F for 1.5 hours, then ramp up the temperature to 350°F for an extra 15-20 minutes to achieve irresistibly crispy skin and juicy meat.
How long to boil Cornish hens at 350?
Typically, cooking one Cornish hen at 350 degrees will take around 30 minutes to 1 hour. Keep in mind that the cooking time may differ based on factors like the bird’s size and skin thickness.
Are Cornish hens tough at 350?
Cooking Cornish hens at 350 degrees: a simple and successful method. Discover the secret to perfectly juicy poultry. Ensure even cooking and prevent dryness with this moderate temperature.
Can cook Cornish hens at 350?
Achieve culinary excellence with perfectly cooked Cornish hens at 350°F! Simply bake them for 1 hour, basting every 15 minutes with a delectable butter mixture. Enhance the flavors by deglazing the pan juices with a splash of white wine or dry sherry. The resulting sauce is a savory complement to rice or potatoes. This recipe yields 4 servings, ensuring a delightful meal for all.

Dana Packard is the Chef at Irish Setter Pub. Dana brings over 15 years of culinary experience to her position, and has worked in some of the most prestigious kitchens in the country. She is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, and is an accomplished chef with a passion for creating delicious, innovative dishes.
When she’s not in the kitchen, Dana enjoys spending time with her husband and two young children. She also loves animals, and has two dogs and a cat that she adores.