Cornish Hens for a newbie

Yamhillbilly

I picked up two hens on sale a the local grocer. I was thinking of brining them, and splitting the birds before grilling. Suggestions plz???

gdenby

That'll work. Once split, they'll cook somewhat like ordinary chicken leg quarters. Its likely the wings will overcook, not much way around that. As mentioned in a thread a few days ago, its hard to get crisp skin w. brined birds.

Personally, I like to rub a little herbed butter under the skin, and place a few sections of orange and lemon inside. Turn a few times.

jeffwit

Jeff Phillips' website (smokingmeat.com I think) has a recipe for beer brined Cornish hens that my family loves. 

Mickey

Direct raised 400/425 do not flip or brine 5

Killit_and_Grillit

Mickey said:

Direct raised 400/425 do not flip or brine 5

This is how I do all my smaller birds. Especially wild ones with gamier and less fat. 

Most at of the time when I do Cornish game hens though it's before a turkey fry. I toss them in for about 8 minutes while the bird is getting to room temp to give the guys something to munch on out in the driveway. 

RRP

You'll love those Cornish Game Hens! We sure do!