Cajun-Fried Cornish Game Hens Recipe
Overview:
Indulge in the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with this quick and easy Cajun-Fried Cornish Game Hens recipe. Perfectly seasoned and deep-fried to crispy perfection, these game hens make for a delightful meal that’s both flavorful and satisfying. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, you can have this dish on the table in under 30 minutes. Ideal for those craving a delicious poultry dish with a Cajun twist, this recipe promises to impress without keeping you tied up in the kitchen for long!
Recipe Information:
- Name: Cajun-Fried Cornish Game Hens
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Recipe Category: Poultry
- Keywords: Meat, Cajun, Very Low Carbs, < 30 Mins, Deep Fried, Easy
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: 3057.5 (based on the ingredients provided)
Ingredients:
- 3 Cornish game hens
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 4 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying (enough to fill a deep pot to a depth of 4 inches)
Nutrition Information per Serving:
- Calories: 3057.5
- Total Fat: 328.825 g
- Saturated Fat: 55.975 g
- Cholesterol: 129.1 mg
- Sodium: 96.675 mg
- Carbohydrates: 6.025 g
- Fiber: 0.25 g
- Sugar: 0.025 g
- Protein: 292.5 g
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Hens:
- In a small bowl, combine Cajun seasoning and black pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the inside and outside of each Cornish game hen.
- Tie the legs of each hen together using kitchen twine to help them cook evenly.
-
Coat with Flour:
- Place the all-purpose flour in a large, heavy-duty zip-top plastic bag.
- Add the seasoned game hens one at a time to the bag.
- Seal the bag and shake vigorously to coat each hen evenly with the flour mixture.
-
Heat the Oil:
- In a deep pot or Dutch oven, pour enough oil to reach a depth of 4 inches.
- Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Use a deep-frying thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately.
-
Fry the Hens:
- Carefully lower the coated Cornish game hens into the hot oil, one at a time.
- Fry the hens for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the breast reaches 180°F (82°C) on a meat thermometer. Ensure the hens are fully submerged in the oil for even cooking.
-
Drain and Serve:
- Once cooked through and golden brown, carefully remove the fried game hens from the oil using tongs or a slotted spoon.
- Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Allow the hens to rest for a few minutes before serving. Remove the kitchen twine from each hen before plating.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Cajun-Fried Cornish Game Hens hot, paired with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Even Coating: Ensure each Cornish game hen is coated thoroughly with the seasoned flour mixture by shaking them in the bag until evenly covered.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) throughout frying to achieve crispy and evenly cooked hens.
- Safety First: When frying, use caution to avoid splatters and burns. Handle hot oil carefully and keep a close eye on the cooking process.
Conclusion:
This Cajun-Fried Cornish Game Hens recipe offers a perfect blend of simplicity and bold flavors, making it an excellent choice for a quick and delicious meal. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering, these crispy and flavorful game hens are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the taste of Cajun seasoning combined with the juiciness of Cornish game hens, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable. Try it out today and savor the delightful flavors of this easy-to-make Cajun-inspired recipe!