Cornish hen is a flavorful and tender meat that has gained popularity in recent years. This dish is perfect for intimate gatherings or special occasions, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. With the advent of air fryers, cooking Cornish hen has become even more convenient and accessible. If you’re wondering how long to cook cornish hen in air fryer, this guide has got you covered.

1. Preparing the Cornish Hen

Before cooking Cornish hen in an air fryer, there are a few essential steps to take. The first is to clean and season the hen. Rinse the hen inside and out with cold water and pat it dry with a paper towel. Rub the hen with your preferred seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Trussing the hen is another crucial step in preparing it. This process involves tying the legs and wings of the hen together to ensure even cooking. Trussing the hen helps to retain its shape and juiciness during cooking.

Preheating the air fryer is also essential before cooking the Cornish hen. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for about 5 minutes before placing the hen in the basket.

2. Cooking the Cornish Hen

Cooking Cornish hen in an air fryer is quick and straightforward. The cooking time and temperature depend on the size of the hen and the air fryer’s capacity. Typically, a 1.5 to 2-pound Cornish hen takes about 30 minutes to cook in an air fryer.

Set the air fryer to 375°F and place the Cornish hen in the basket, breast-side up. Cook the hen for about 15 minutes, then flip it over and cook for another 15 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the hen. The temperature should reach 165°F, indicating that it’s fully cooked.

To achieve a crispy skin, brush the Cornish hen with melted butter or oil before placing it in the air fryer. Additionally, you can baste the hen with the same mixture every 10 minutes during cooking to enhance the flavor and texture.

Cooking Cornish hen in an air fryer is a healthier alternative to traditional frying, as it uses minimal oil and preserves the nutrients of the meat. With these easy steps, you can cook delicious Cornish hen in an air fryer in no time.

3. Cooking the Cornish Hen (continued)

When it comes to cooking Cornish hen in an air fryer, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, ensure that the hen is fully defrosted before cooking. Secondly, try to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow for even cooking.

In terms of cooking time and temperature, a 1.5 to 2-pound Cornish hen requires a temperature of 375°F and cooking time of 30 minutes. For a larger hen, adjust the cooking time accordingly.

To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer to measure the temperature at the thickest part of the hen. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast or thigh, being careful not to touch the bone. Once the temperature reaches 165°F, the Cornish hen is fully cooked.

If you’re looking to achieve a crispy skin, there are a few tips you can follow. Firstly, ensure that the hen is dry before placing it in the air fryer, as moisture can prevent the skin from crisping. Secondly, brush the hen with melted butter or oil before cooking to help achieve a golden-brown color. Lastly, try not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking and prevent the skin from crisping up.

4. Serving Suggestions

Cornish hen is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes, sauces, and gravies. Roasted vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts are great accompaniments to Cornish hen. You can also serve the hen with a side salad or fresh bread.

For sauces and gravies, there are plenty of options to choose from. A classic gravy made from the drippings of the hen is a great choice. You can also try a mushroom sauce or a creamy garlic sauce for added flavor.

Cornish hen also pairs well with a variety of wines, such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, or Sauvignon Blanc. Serve the wine chilled to complement the flavors of the dish.

In conclusion, Cornish hen is a flavorful and easy-to-prepare dish that can be cooked in an air fryer in just 30 minutes. With the right seasoning, cooking time, and temperature, you can achieve a delicious and tender meat that pairs well with a variety of side dishes and sauces.