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Sheet Pan Cornish Hens for a Festive Thanksgiving Meal
Sheet Pan Cornish Hens for a Festive Thanksgiving Meal
Holiday Meal

Sheet Pan Cornish Hens for a Festive Thanksgiving Meal

★★★★ ☆ 4.1 (435)

This easy sheet pan recipe makes juicy, flavorful Cornish hens perfect for your Thanksgiving celebration. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s a stress-free way to impress your guests and enjoy a festive meal together.

◷ 1 hr 5 min Total Time
♜ 4 Servings
▥ Hard Difficulty
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Ingredients

4 servings
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Instructions

1

Step 1

Start by heating your oven to 500°F and lightly spray a large sheet pan with cooking spray. Spread the potatoes, carrots, and onions out in a single layer on the pan. Drizzle everything with olive oil and sprinkle a tablespoon of Italian seasoning over the veggies.

2

Step 2

In a small bowl, mix the butter with a teaspoon of Italian seasoning until well combined. Rinse the Cornish hens inside and out under cool water, then pat them dry with paper towels. Season the inside of each hen with salt and pepper. Carefully loosen the skin from the breast meat to create a little pocket—just be gentle so the skin doesn’t tear.

3

Step 3

Divide the butter mixture between the hens and spread it under the skin. Place the hens on top of the veggies on the sheet pan. Season the outsides with salt, pepper, and the remaining Italian seasoning. Pop a lemon inside each cavity, then pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.

4

Step 4

Roast everything in the oven for about 35 to 45 minutes, until the hens are golden and cooked through. If they start to brown too quickly near the end, tent them loosely with foil. The hens are done when an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. Take them out and let them rest covered with foil for 10 minutes.

5

Step 5

While the hens are resting, scoop out about half a cup of the pan drippings from under the veggies and pour them into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then whisk in a mixture of flour and cold water until the gravy thickens to your liking. Serve the gravy alongside the hens and veggies for a cozy, festive feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is perfect for a festive occasion because it combines juicy, flavorful birds with easy cleanup. Cooking everything on one pan saves time and lets the hens develop a beautiful, crispy skin. It’s a great way to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes to keep the meal colorful and seasonal. A side of cranberry sauce or a fresh apple chutney pairs well to add a touch of sweetness. Don’t forget some warm dinner rolls or crusty bread for a complete spread.

Storage Tips

Store leftover meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven to keep the skin from getting soggy. You can also freeze the meat for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.