Garlic Cajun Butter Cornish Hens Recipe

Introduction

Looking to take your roast game up a notch? These Garlic Cajun Butter Cornish Hens are the perfect answer. Coated in rich garlic Cajun butter and roasted until the skin is golden and crispy, these small but mighty birds bring bold Southern flavor with minimal effort. Plus, they roast alongside seasoned veggies for a full one-pan meal that delivers on both taste and presentation.

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Why I Love This Recipe

Cornish hens are an underrated gem. They’re elegant enough for dinner parties but easy enough for a weeknight indulgence. Add in Cajun seasoning, garlic, and butter? You’ve got crispy-skinned birds bursting with flavor and a sauce that’s downright drinkable. The veggies soak up the juices, making this a complete, comforting meal with no fuss.

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Ingredients

For the Cornish Hens:

• 2 Cornish hens (1.5–2 lbs each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Cajun Butter:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Veggies:

• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 cup baby potatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

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Ingredient Swaps and Notes

• Cornish Hens Substitute: This same recipe works beautifully with bone-in chicken thighs or a small whole chicken.
• Butter Alternatives: Ghee or plant-based butter works well if you’re dairy-free.
• Spice Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Hens

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens.
3. Rub hens all over with olive oil.
4. Combine the dry seasonings and rub evenly over each hen.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Cajun Butter

1. Melt butter in a saucepan.
2. Sauté garlic until fragrant (1–2 minutes).
3. Stir in Cajun seasoning, parsley, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and optional red pepper flakes. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Roast

1. Place hens in a roasting pan or baking dish.
2. Pour half of the garlic Cajun butter over them.
3. Add sliced peppers, onions, and halved potatoes around the hens.
4. Pour chicken broth into the pan.
5. Roast for 1–1 hr 15 min or until internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Baste with remaining garlic butter halfway through.

Step 4: Serve
Let hens rest for 10 minutes before serving with the roasted veggies and any remaining pan juices.

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Tips for Success

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness without overcooking.
• Don’t skip the basting—it adds loads of flavor and moisture.
• Broil for the last 2–3 minutes if you want crispier skin.

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Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These hens shine as a centerpiece dish. Pair them with a cold beer or this Beer Cheese Dip as a starter. Want a full Cajun-style dinner spread? Add Dorito Casserole or Sheet Pan Quesadillas on the side.

For dessert, cool things down with Ice Cream Sandwich Cake.

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Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in the oven to maintain crispiness.
• Freeze cooked hens for up to 2 months (without the veggies).

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More Recipes You’ll Love

Here are some flavorful dishes that would pair well or follow this recipe beautifully:

• This Crockpot Nacho Dip – a party essential.
• Beer Cheese Dip – perfect pre-dinner snack.

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Final Thoughts

These Garlic Cajun Butter Cornish Hens are flavorful, juicy, and practically foolproof. With the spicy butter soaking into crispy skin and tender meat, you’ll want to make them again and again. Whether it’s for Sunday dinner or your next dinner party, this recipe delivers big time.

👉 Loved this spicy twist on classic roasted poultry? Drop a comment and follow for more bold, delicious recipes on Chef Maniac!