How To Deep Fry Cornish Game Hens

Deep frying cornish game hens requires you to fully submerge seasoned hens in hot oil until they are cooked through and golden brown.

Crispy skin and juicy meat, that’s what everyone wants! The secret? Knowing how to deep fry cornish game hens perfectly. It’s a technique that might seem intimidating, but really it is quite straightforward and yields incredibly delicious results.

We’ll guide you through all the steps needed, from preparation to perfect cooking temperatures. Follow along and you’ll be enjoying the tastiest fried hens in no time.

How to Deep Fry Cornish Game Hens: A Step-by-Step Guide

Deep frying Cornish game hens might sound like a fancy restaurant thing, but it’s totally doable at home! It’s a fun way to get super crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat. Think of it like a miniature fried chicken, but even more special. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from picking the right hens to achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.

Choosing Your Cornish Game Hens

First things first, let’s talk about the stars of the show: the Cornish game hens themselves. Here’s what to look for:

Size Matters: You’ll want hens that are about 1 to 1.5 pounds each. This size cooks evenly and fits comfortably in most deep fryers or large pots.
Freshness: Look for hens that are plump and have a nice, pale pink color. Avoid any that look bruised or have a strange odor.
Frozen vs. Fresh: Both work great! If using frozen, make sure they are completely thawed before you start. Thawing in the fridge is the safest method. Don’t try to deep fry a frozen hen.

When you are buying the game hens, remember you are going to deep fry them, so you need to make sure that they are of good quality and fresh. It will affect the taste, so select a healthy hen for the recipe.

Preparing the Cornish Game Hens for Frying

Prepping the hens is key to getting a great finished product. Think of it like giving them a little spa day before their big fry:

Rinsing and Drying: Rinse the hens under cold water, inside and out. Then, pat them completely dry with paper towels. Any excess moisture will cause the oil to splatter and the skin to steam rather than crisp. Dry thoroughly – very very important step.
Trimming: You might want to trim off any excess skin or fat around the neck and cavity. This isn’t mandatory, but it can help with more even cooking.
Optional Brining: A brine is like a salty bath that helps make the meat extra juicy. A simple brine of salt, water, and maybe some sugar can work wonders. If you have some time, brine the game hens in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.

You also need to make sure that, after taking them out from the refrigerator, you should pat them dry again with paper towels before you apply the coating, this is also very important.

The All-Important Coating: Making a flavorful Batter

The coating is what gives your fried Cornish game hens that signature crunch and flavor. Let’s explore the options:

The Classic Dredge

This is the easiest method and gives a crispy, but not overly thick coating. You need just a few common pantry items:

Flour: All-purpose flour works well. You can also use a mix of all-purpose and cornstarch for a crispier result.
Seasonings: This is where you get to add your own special touch. Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper are all great choices. Don’t be shy, season generously!
Optional Add-ins: Some people like to add dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to the mix for added flavor.

How to Dredge: Mix your dry ingredients well in a bowl. Then, one at a time, dredge each hen thoroughly in the flour mixture, making sure to coat all the nooks and crannies. Shake off any excess flour.

The Batter Dip

For a thicker, more substantial coating, a batter is the way to go. Here’s a basic batter recipe you can customize:

Flour: All-purpose is fine, but you can use self-rising flour for an extra lift.
Liquid: Buttermilk is a classic choice for batter. The acidity helps tenderize the meat. You can also use milk or even beer.
Eggs: One or two eggs will help bind the batter.
Seasonings: Just like with the dredge, add salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
Optional: For added crispness, try adding a bit of cornstarch or baking powder to the batter.

How to Batter: In a bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients, then gradually add the dry ingredients until you get a smooth batter, slightly thicker than pancake batter. Dip each hen into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let the excess batter drip off before frying.

Choosing the Right Oil and Equipment

The right oil and equipment are crucial for safe and successful deep frying.

Selecting Your Oil

Not all oils are created equal when it comes to deep frying. You need an oil with a high smoke point, which means it can be heated to a high temperature without burning or developing a bad flavor. Here are some good options:

Vegetable Oil: A reliable and affordable choice with a neutral flavor.
Canola Oil: Another neutral option that works well for deep frying.
Peanut Oil: Offers a slightly nutty flavor and has a high smoke point. Great for a classic fried chicken style taste, but be aware of allergies!
Soybean Oil: Similar to vegetable and canola oil.

Avoid olive oil and butter for deep frying because they have low smoke points and will burn easily. Make sure the oil is fresh and not reused many times because it will affect the taste and quality of food.

Necessary Equipment

Deep Fryer or Large Pot: You’ll need a vessel large enough to hold at least 2 inches of oil and have room for the game hens. A deep fryer is convenient because it regulates the temperature automatically, but a heavy-bottomed pot (like a Dutch oven) will work as well.
Thermometer: A deep-fry thermometer is essential for monitoring the oil temperature. This is a crucial tool because temperature is very important to fry the hens perfectly.
Slotted Spoon or Spider: This is for carefully placing the hens into the hot oil and for removing them when they’re done. Don’t put the hens directly into the oil by hand.
Wire Rack with Baking Sheet: To drain excess oil from the fried hens.
Tongs: For handling the hot hens safely.

The Deep Frying Process: Achieving Golden Perfection

Now for the main event! Here’s how to deep fry your Cornish game hens step-by-step:

Heat the Oil: Fill your deep fryer or pot with enough oil to reach at least 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat. Use your thermometer to monitor the temperature, aiming for 325-350°F (160-175°C). This is the ideal range for even cooking and a crispy crust.
Carefully Add the Hens: Once the oil is at the right temperature, gently lower the hens into the oil one or two at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pot or deep fryer. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and cause the hens to steam rather than fry.
Fry the Hens: Fry for about 12-15 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the thickest part of the thigh should reach 165°F (74°C). Always check with a meat thermometer, don’t guess!
Remove and Drain: Using your slotted spoon or spider, carefully remove the fried hens from the oil and place them on the wire rack over the baking sheet. Let them drain for a few minutes.
Repeat if Necessary: If you have more hens, repeat the process in batches. Make sure the oil temperature is maintained between batches.

Tips for Deep Frying Success

Deep frying can be intimidating, but here are some tips to make it easier:

Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: This is one of the most common mistakes. Frying too many hens at once will lower the oil temperature, causing the hens to absorb too much oil and become soggy.
Maintain the Oil Temperature: The oil temperature will fluctuate as you add the hens. Monitor the thermometer closely and adjust the heat as needed.
Use a Thermometer: Don’t rely on guesswork! A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your hens are cooked through.
Don’t Rush the Process: Let the hens cook for the recommended time and temperature. It’s better to be patient than to end up with undercooked meat.
Safety First: Always be careful when handling hot oil. Never leave it unattended, and keep a lid nearby in case of fire. Never throw water on an oil fire!
Flavor Boost: Consider adding some herbs or aromatics to the oil for extra flavor. Garlic cloves, a sprig of rosemary, or some bay leaves can add a subtle depth to the fried hens.

Serving Your Deep Fried Cornish Game Hens

Now that your hens are perfectly fried, it’s time to think about serving them. Here are some tasty ideas:

Classic Sides: Think mashed potatoes, coleslaw, green beans, or corn on the cob. These are crowd-pleasers for a reason.
Sauces and Dips: Hot sauce, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a simple aioli can take your fried hens to the next level.
Lemon Wedge: Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the fried hens adds a burst of brightness.
Creative Pairings: Try serving them with a fresh salad, some roasted vegetables, or even a side of grits.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your personal touch to your deep fried Cornish game hens. They are incredibly versatile and taste great with many different flavor combinations.

Deep frying Cornish game hens is a rewarding cooking adventure that yields incredibly delicious results. With a little preparation and attention to detail, you’ll be serving up golden, crispy, and juicy hens that will impress everyone. Remember to keep your oil temperature consistent, don’t overcrowd the pot, and use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through. Enjoy the process, and enjoy the incredible taste of your homemade fried Cornish game hens!

How To Make Deep Fried Cornish Hens

Final Thoughts

Deep fry thawed Cornish game hens at 325°F (160°C) for about 12-15 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remember to pat the hens dry before frying.

Carefully place the hens in hot oil; avoid overcrowding. Fry them until golden brown and perfectly cooked through. This simple process outlines how to deep fry cornish game hens, delivering crispy and delicious results. Always use caution when handling hot oil.