Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsPrime: An American Kitchen & BarGrilled Cornish Hen Recipe

Grilled Cornish Hen Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

paprika herb butter

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

Method

Cooking Directions

  1. 1

    Prepare the Butter

    In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, paprika, minced garlic, fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Hens

    Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Pat the Cornish hens dry with paper towels and rub them inside and out with olive oil. Then, carefully loosen the skin over the breasts and thighs of each hen, creating pockets for the herb butter.

  3. 3

    Apply the Herb Butter

    Spread the prepared paprika herb butter evenly under the skin of each hen and over the outside. Reserve some butter for basting during grilling.

  4. 4

    Grill the Hens

    Place the hens on the grill, breast side up. Grill for 30-35 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with the reserved herb butter until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

  5. 5

    Rest and Serve

    Once cooked, remove the hens from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve warm.

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