Introduction
Cornish game hens are small, tender, and flavorful poultry that make for a delightful meal. Grilling them adds a smoky and delicious flavor to the meat. In this article, we will guide you on how to butterfly and grill Cornish game hens to perfection.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following ingredients and equipment:
- 2 Cornish game hens
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Herbs and spices of your choice
- Grill
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
Step 1: Prepare the Game Hens
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. While the grill is heating up, prepare the game hens by removing any giblets and excess fat. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Butterfly the Game Hens
To butterfly the game hens, place them breast-side down on a cutting board. Use kitchen shears or a sharp knife to cut along both sides of the backbone. Remove the backbone and discard it. Open up the hens and press them flat, skin-side up.
Step 3: Season the Game Hens
Drizzle the game hens with olive oil and rub it all over the skin. Season generously with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices. You can use a pre-made poultry seasoning blend or create your own combination.
Step 4: Grill the Game Hens
Place the seasoned game hens on the preheated grill, skin-side down. Close the lid and let them cook for about 15 minutes. Use tongs to carefully flip them over and continue grilling for another 15 minutes.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Using a meat thermometer, check the internal temperature of the game hens. They should reach a minimum temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat. If needed, continue grilling until the desired temperature is reached.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once the game hens are cooked through, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy meat. Serve the grilled Cornish game hens with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Conclusion
Grilling Cornish game hens is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this poultry delicacy. By following these steps, you’ll be able to butterfly and grill them to perfection. So fire up your grill and impress your family and friends with a mouthwatering meal!
