• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Cottage at the Crossroads

menu icon
go to homepage
  • Canning
  • Gardening
  • Recipes
  • Air Fryer
  • Desserts
  • DIY
  • Crafts
  • Holidays
  • Christmas
  • Recipe Collections
  • Fall Decor
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Pinterest
  • search icon
    Homepage link
    • Canning
    • Gardening
    • Recipes
    • Air Fryer
    • Desserts
    • DIY
    • Crafts
    • Holidays
    • Christmas
    • Recipe Collections
    • Fall Decor
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    Home » Recipes » Air Fryer

    29 Best Air Fryer Cornish Hen Recipes

    By: Jane · Updated: 16 Sep, '23 · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    Sharing is caring!

    29 best air fryer cornish hen recipes pin

    Air fryers have become a sensation in the culinary realm, with enthusiasts showcasing their delectable creations on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.

    29 best air fryer cornish hen recipes facebook

    This kitchen marvel offers a healthier twist to frying, making it a favorite for those keen on cutting calories without compromising flavor.

    Among the numerous delicacies tailored for this device, the Cornish hen stands out. Its tender meat, which seamlessly absorbs a medley of flavors, provides an impeccable canvas for myriad air fryer recipes.

    Preparing a Cornish hen using an air fryer recipe is not just about the end product; it's also about the ease and convenience of the process.

    And whether you're working with leftovers or a freshly thawed bird, a few pats with a paper towel ensure it's dry and ready for seasoning. This simple step guarantees a crisp exterior while retaining the juiciness within.

    You can use that advice on almost all of the 19 best air fryer Cornish hen recipes mentioned below. Let’s get cooking!

    Contents
    • Super Easy Air Fryer Cornish Hen
    • Air Fryer Juicy Cornish Hens
    • Air Fryer Cilantro-Lime Cornish Hen
    • Air Fryer Cornish Hens With Chicken Seasoning
    • Gluten Free Air Fryer Cornish Hen
    • Air Fryer Cornish Hen With Roasted Zucchini & Mashed Cauliflower
    • Extra Crispy Air Fryer Cornish Hen
    • Easy Rotisserie Cornish Hen in an Air Fryer
    • Air Fryer Cornish Hen With Shawarma Spice Mix
    • Air Fryer Cornish Hens With Poultry Seasoning
    • Ninja Foodi Cornish Hens
    • Cornish Hen in Air Fryer With Dried Herbs
    • Greek-Style Air Fried Cornish Hens
    • Nandos Peri Peri Chicken In Air Fryer
    • Roasted Cornish Hens with Lemon Pepper
    • Huli Huli Chicken
    • Air Fried Cornish Hen (Low Carb, Keto)
    • 30 Min Air Fryer Cornish Hen
    • Easy & Quick Air Fryer Cornish Hen
    • Low Carb and Gluten Free Air Fryer Cornish Hen
    • Gluten Free Air Fryer Cornish Hens
    • Flavorful Air Fryer Cornish Hen
    • Cornish Game Hens With Cornbread Stuffing
    • Air Fryer Cornish Hen from Frozen
    • Air Fryer Roasted Cornish Game Hen with Savory Bread Pudding
    • Cornish Game Hen With Wild Rice Stuffing
    • No Oil Air Fryer Cornish Hens
    • 30 Minute Cornish Hen Air Fryer
    • Hoisin-Glazed Cornish Hen
    • 📋 Recipe
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • 💬 Comments

    Super Easy Air Fryer Cornish Hen

    Super easy air fryer cornish hen
    Image source: Enjoy Clean Eating

    This dish showcases the enticing combination of onion powder, garlic, paprika, rosemary, and thyme. The tender Cornish hen, when air-fried, pairs perfectly with any vegetable side dish.

    Air Fryer Juicy Cornish Hens

    Air fryer juicy cornish hens
    Image source: Stay Snatched

    These hens offer more than just juicy meat; the cornbread stuffing, laced with apple and pecans, provides a nostalgic touch, making it a wintertime favorite.

    Air Fryer Cilantro-Lime Cornish Hen

    Air fryer cilantro-lime cornish hen
    Image source: Delish

    This dish boasts a blend of tangy cilantro and lime, balanced harmoniously by soy sauce and cumin. It's a culinary masterpiece best savored with a fiber-rich side of rice or salad.

    Air Fryer Cornish Hens With Chicken Seasoning

    Air fryer cornish hens with chicken seasoning
    Image source: Jersey Girl Cooks

    These Cornish hens, reminiscent of mini rotisserie chickens, offer a classic poultry seasoning. Drizzled with olive oil, they’re the centerpiece for festive dinners, pairing perfectly with mashed potatoes.

    Gluten Free Air Fryer Cornish Hen

    Gluten free air fryer cornish hen
    Image source: Air Fryer Eats

    If you're in the mood for a gluten-free feast, this is the one. The blend of spices accentuates the hens, while lemon wedges add a refreshing citrus touch.

    Air Fryer Cornish Hen With Roasted Zucchini & Mashed Cauliflower

    Air fryer cornish hen with roasted zucchini & mashed cauliflower
    Image source: Summer Yule

    This dish brings together a delectably roasted Cornish hen with a medley of sides. The zucchini and mashed cauliflower complement the hen's savory flavors, perfect for a hearty meal.

    Extra Crispy Air Fryer Cornish Hen

    Extra crispy air fryer cornish hen
    Image source: Foodie and Wine

    Crispiness takes center stage in this dish. The Cornish hen, adorned with herbs like thyme and sage, is sure to impress at any gathering, especially next to a cholesterol-lowering green salad.

    Easy Rotisserie Cornish Hen in an Air Fryer

    Easy rotisserie cornish hen in an air fryer
    Image source: Reinvented Delaware

    This dish exudes the essence of a classic rotisserie, highlighted with an everything bagel mix. The buttery elegance is uplifted when complemented by sodium-conscious roasted vegetables.

    Air Fryer Cornish Hen With Shawarma Spice Mix

    Air fryer cornish hen with shawarma spice mix
    Image source: Recipes From A Pantry

    This recipe captivates with its Middle-Eastern charm. The shawarma spice mix melds wonderfully with the hen, pairing superbly with a side of protein-rich quinoa.

    Air Fryer Cornish Hens With Poultry Seasoning

    Air fryer cornish hens with poultry seasoning
    Image source: Fork to Spoon

    Poultry seasoning shines in this straightforward recipe. The perfectly air-fried hens are a comforting meal when served with a classic green salad or potato mash.

    Ninja Foodi Cornish Hens

    Ninja foodi cornish hens
    Image source: Mommy Hates Cooking

    Experience the magic of lemon pepper seasoning on these Cornish hens. A spritz of grapeseed oil ensures a golden finish, making them irresistibly crunchy on the outside.

    Cornish Hen in Air Fryer With Dried Herbs

    Cornish hen in air fryer with dried herbs
    Image source: Home Cooked Harvest

    This recipe offers a symphony of dried herbs that coat the hens to perfection. Paired with the tanginess of lemon and rich garlic cloves, it's a sensory treat.

    Greek-Style Air Fried Cornish Hens

    Greek-style air fried cornish hens
    Image source: Hildas Kitchen Blog

    Inspired by Greek flavors, these hens are marinated in olive oil, garlic, and oregano. The lemon juice brightens the dish, making it ideal for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

    Nandos Peri Peri Chicken In Air Fryer

    Nandos peri peri chicken in air fryer
    Image source: Recipe This

    Feel the heat with this peri peri chicken recipe. Using Cornish hens as a substitute elevates the dish, and the spicy rice on the side completes the fiery experience.

    Roasted Cornish Hens with Lemon Pepper

    Roasted cornish hens with lemon pepper
    Image source: Fearless Dining

    Roasted to perfection, these hens bask in a medley of butter, garlic, and lemon pepper. Best reserved for gourmet home dining experiences, they rival any oven-cooked whole chicken.

    Huli Huli Chicken

    Huli huli chicken
    Image source: Grace Like Rain Blog

    This dish offers a taste of Hawaiian flair with its unique blend of sweet and savory seasonings. While chicken thighs are the original star, Cornish hens can shine equally bright in this tropical delicacy.

    Air Fried Cornish Hen (Low Carb, Keto)

    Air fried cornish hen
    Image source: A Grill for All Seasons

    For the health-conscious, this low carb and keto-friendly hen recipe is a delight. The minimalist seasoning lets the natural flavors of the hen shine.

    30 Min Air Fryer Cornish Hen

    30 min air fryer cornish hen
    Image source: Joy Filled Eats

    Short on time? This Cornish hen recipe is both quick and delectable. A touch of olive oil and basic seasonings ensure a satisfying meal in minutes.

    Easy & Quick Air Fryer Cornish Hen

    Easy & quick air fryer cornish hen
    Image source: Bake It With Love

    In the mood for an effortless meal? This hen, seasoned with garlic powder and pepper, pairs wonderfully with crispy fries or a vitamin C-rich salad.

    Low Carb and Gluten Free Air Fryer Cornish Hen

    Low carb and gluten free air fryer cornish hen
    Image source: Whole Kitchen Sink

    This dish is a testament to wholesome dining. Packed with protein and low in carbohydrates, its array of spices and fresh herbs will keep your taste buds and health in check.

    Gluten Free Air Fryer Cornish Hens

    Gluten free air fryer cornish hens
    Image source: Air Fryer Fanatics

    Gluten-avoiders rejoice with this dish. The hint of lemon pepper seasoning, combined with a pat of grapeseed oil, ensures a palatable experience, minus the gluten.

    Flavorful Air Fryer Cornish Hen

    Flavorful air fryer cornish hen
    Image source: Birmingham Christian

    The melange of seasonings, including everything bagel mix, makes this Cornish hen dish unforgettable. It's a delightful choice for those who love a blend of spices.

    Cornish Game Hens With Cornbread Stuffing

    Cornish game hens with cornbread stuffing
    Image source: Kalorik

    If you fancy a comforting meal, these hens with cornbread stuffing are the answer. The apple and pecans in the stuffing add a sweet and nutty dimension, perfect for a cozy evening.

    Air Fryer Cornish Hen from Frozen

    Air fryer cornish hen from frozen
    Image source: Little Bit Recipes

    For spontaneous dinner plans, this dish delivers. Even when commencing with a frozen bird, the hen emerges succulent, hinting at smoked paprika’s gentle touch after a quick thaw in cold water.

    Air Fryer Roasted Cornish Game Hen with Savory Bread Pudding

    Air fryer roasted cornish game hen with savory bread pudding
    Image source: Air-Fried

    If a culinary journey is what you seek, this is your dish. Paired with savory bread pudding, it's a delightful blend of textures, perfect with a glass of calcium-rich almond milk.

    Cornish Game Hen With Wild Rice Stuffing

    Cornish game hen with wild rice stuffing
    Image source: Zestful Kitchen

    A feast for special occasions, this dish boasts hens stuffed with a rich wild rice mix. The cherries and wine vinegar in the stuffing provide a delightful tang.

    No Oil Air Fryer Cornish Hens

    No oil air fryer cornish hens
    Image source: Fork to Spoon

    Marrying health with taste, this no-oil recipe promises a treat. With just poultry seasoning, these hens become a heart-friendly choice, brimming with flavor without excessive calories.

    30 Minute Cornish Hen Air Fryer

    30 minute cornish hen air fryer
    Image source: Savorandsavvy

    A busy day? This Cornish hen recipe promises a gourmet meal swiftly. Infused with herbs de Provence and butter, it's delightful alongside potassium-rich baked potatoes.

    Hoisin-Glazed Cornish Hen

    Hoisin-glazed cornish hen
    Image source: Food Network

    This dish combines the sweet-savory goodness of hoisin with a kick of red pepper flakes. Complement it with cranberry sauce for a balanced palate experience.

    📋 Recipe

    29 best air fryer cornish hen recipes featured recipe

    Air Fried Lemon Pepper Cornish Hens

    Crispy, tender, and bursting with zesty flavor, these air fried lemon pepper cornish hens are a must-try dish that will leave you wanting more.
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 10 minutes mins
    Cook Time 45 minutes mins
    Total Time 55 minutes mins
    Course Main Course
    Cuisine American
    Servings 2 people
    Calories 1055 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 Cornish Hens
    • Knob of Butter
    • Black Pepper
    • Salt
    • 1 Lemon cut into quarters
    • Butter for basting
    • Lemon Pepper Seasoning
    • Juice of Half a Lemon

    Instructions
     

    Prepare the Cornish Hens:

    • Carefully lift the skin of each Cornish hen and place a knob of butter underneath the skin.
      2 Cornish Hens, Knob of Butter
    • Lightly season both sides of the hens with a sprinkle of black pepper and a pinch of salt.
      Black Pepper, Salt

    Stuff the Inside:

    • Open the cavity of each Cornish hen and place ¼ lemon wedge inside.

    Prepare the Basting Mixture:

    • In a bowl, create a basting mixture by combining butter, lemon pepper seasoning, and the juice of half a lemon. Adjust the amounts to your taste.
      1 Lemon, Butter, Lemon Pepper Seasoning, Juice of Half a Lemon

    Preheat the Air Fryer:

    • Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C) for a few minutes.

    Air Frying:

    • Place the prepared Cornish hens in the air fryer basket.
    • Cook the Cornish hens at 370°F (188°C) for 15 minutes.
    • Carefully flip the Cornish hens and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
    • Flip the Cornish hens once more and cook for a final 15 minutes.

    Basting:

    • Every 10 minutes or so, baste the hens with the prepared basting mixture. This adds flavor and moisture.

    Check Doneness:

    • Ensure the Cornish hens are cooked through, with crispy skin. If necessary, cook for an additional few minutes.

    Serve:

    • Once the Cornish hens are cooked to perfection—crispy, juicy, and flavorful-remove them from the air fryer.
    • Plate the hens, and serve with your preferred side dishes.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 1055kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 58gFat: 90gSaturated Fat: 40gPolyunsaturated Fat: 11gMonounsaturated Fat: 32gTrans Fat: 2gCholesterol: 452mgSodium: 1706mgPotassium: 835mgFiber: 1gSugar: 0.3gVitamin A: 1686IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 59mgIron: 3mg
    Keyword airfryer, cornishhens, lemon, Pepper
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long do you cook a Cornish hen in an air fryer?

    Typically, it takes about 25-30 minutes at 375°F, but always check for an internal temperature of 165°F with a meat thermometer.

    How long does the hen take to cook in the air fryer?

    Usually, it's 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for a well-cooked, juicy meat.

    How to make a hen in an air fryer?

    Season your hen, preheat the air fryer, then place the hen inside and cook at the recommended temperature and time.

    Should Cornish hens be cooked breast up or breast down?

    Start breast down, then flip halfway to finish breast up for even cooking.

    More Air Fryer

    • 27 simple air fryer taco recipes featured
      27 Simple Air Fryer Taco Recipe
    • 31 best air fryer italian sausage recipes featured
      31 Best Air Fryer Italian Sausage Recipes
    • 27 tasty air fryer shrimp taco recipes featured
      27 Tasty Air Fryer Shrimp Taco Recipes
    • 29 tasty chinese air fryer recipes featured
      29 Tasty Chinese Air Fryer Recipes

    Sharing is caring!

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    No Comments

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    Jane @ Cottage at the Crossroads

    We're Jane and Leo!

    Thanks for stopping by! We're renovating and preserving our family's 100 year old home place where we garden, complete a few DIY projects, and do some cooking. Please leave us a comment so that we'll know that you were here.

    about →

    Reader Favorites

    • A garden journal with dividers and tabs
      How to Set Up a Garden Journal
    • Wooden garden obelisks
      DIY Wooden Garden Obelisk
    • Sweet cucumber relish - featured
      Sweet Cucumber Relish
    • Growing cucumbers in raised beds
      Growing Cucumbers in Raised Beds

    Gardening How-tos

    • Best way to remove weeds from large area
      Best Ways To Remove Weeds From a Large Area
    • Potting mix vs. Potting soil
      Potting Mix vs. Potting Soil
    • How to dry and store fresh garden herbs
      How To Dry Herbs
    • 1
      Instant Pot Canning Basics
    • Cookbook Reviews (2)
    • DIY (161)
      • Crafts (75)
      • Home Decor (18)
      • Outdoor Projects (34)
      • Painted Furniture (29)
      • Tablescapes (23)
    • End of Year Review (8)
    • Favorites (7)
    • Gardening (108)
      • Container Gardening (22)
      • Flowers (20)
      • Gardening How To (30)
      • Herbs (4)
      • Structures (20)
      • Vegetables (13)
    • General (18)
    • Holidays (160)
      • Christmas (71)
      • Easter (27)
      • Halloween (3)
      • Independence Day (7)
      • Thanksgiving (10)
      • Valentine's Day (19)
    • Our Cottage (10)
    • Printables (10)
    • Recipe Collections (71)
    • Recipes (260)
      • Air Fryer (81)
      • Appetizers (29)
      • Beverages (8)
      • Canning (33)
      • Desserts (42)
      • Main Dishes (25)
      • Salads (18)
      • Sides (41)
      • Soups (17)
    • Renovations (7)
    • RVing (1)
    • Seasonal (90)
      • Fall Decor (42)
      • Spring Decor (32)
      • Summer Decor (16)

    Growing Vegetables

    • Fall vegetable garden | cottage at the crossroads
      Our Fall Vegetable Garden
    • Garden and yard may 2013 132
      Evolution of a Garden
    • Our best tomato plants are celebrities
      How to Grow Your Own Tomatoes
    • Growing lettuce in containers
      Growing Lettuce in Containers

    Footer

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    © 2021 Cottage at the Crossroads · All Rights Reserved

    Contact Us · Privacy

    5 shares

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required