Get ready to indulge in the delightful flavors of Air Fryer Cornish Hen. These succulent hens are seasoned with savory herb butter, air-fried to perfection, and served with rich poultry gravy. A delicious dish that's easy to make in your air fryer!
Prep Time 15 minutesminutes
Cook Time 35 minutesminutes
Total Time 50 minutesminutes
Makes 4
Ingredients
2Cornish hens
1stickunsalted butterroom temperature
2teaspoonsfresh rosemaryminced
1teaspoonfresh thymeminced
2clovesgarliccrushed
1teaspoonsalt
1/2teaspoonblack pepper
1packagepoultry gravy mix
Instructions
Prepare the herb butter. Mix the butter, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined.
Preheat your air fryer to 380ºF (193ºC).
Season the Cornish game hens. Pat the hens dry with paper towels. Carefully loosen the skin on the breasts and thighs of each hen. Spread the herb butter under the skin of both hens, evenly distributing it for maximum flavor. Rub any remaining herb butter over the hens' skin for a beautiful, golden finish.
Air fry the Cornish hens. Place the Cornish hens in the air fryer. Cook at 380ºF (193ºC) for 30 - 35 minutes, turning them halfway through for even cooking. Ensure the internal temperature of the thickest part reaches 165ºF (74ºC). Using a turkey baster, baste the hens every 10 minutes.
Make the gravy. While the hens cook, prepare the poultry gravy according to the package instructions. Keep it warm until serving.
Serve and enjoy. Once the hens are done, transfer them to a serving platter. Pour the warm poultry gravy over the hens or serve it on the side. Pair this delightful Cornish Hen Air Fryer recipe with your favorite sides and savor the deliciousness!
Notes
Remember that cooking durations may differ depending on the hen’s thickness and your air fryer’s size and model. Before serving, ensure it has been cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC).
If your air fryer doesn't have a preheating option, you can set the temperature to 380°F (193°C) and then let it cook for 4-5 minutes without food.
You can skip preheating by adding 2-4 minutes to your cooking time. Increment gradually to prevent burning the Cornish game hens.
I used a 6-quart (air fryer) to test the Cornish hen. Cooking time and temperature may vary depending on your air fryer and the number of servings you are making. For optimal results, begin with the lower end of the suggested cooking time.