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Close up of blistered crispy skin on a Roasted Cornish Hen with sea salt flakes and black pepper.

Roasted Cornish Hen with Caramelized Root Vegetables and Garlic

This Roasted Cornish Hen features deeply blistered crispy skin, caramelized baby potatoes, and whole roasted garlic. A one-skillet masterpiece seasoned with sea salt and fresh herbs for an elegant, easy dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 640
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1.25 lb Cornish Hen approx 565g, patted dry
  • 1 lb Baby Yellow Potatoes 450g, halved
  • 8 oz Baby Carrots 225g, whole
  • 1 head Garlic cloves separated but in skins
  • 4 sprigs Fresh Rosemary and Thyme tucked into pan
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil 30ml
  • 1 tbsp Butter 15g, melted for glazing
  • 1 tsp Sea Salt Flakes to taste
  • 1 tsp Coarse Black Pepper freshly cracked
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley finely chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 12-inch Cast Iron Skillet Essential for even heat and caramelization.
  • 1 Meat thermometer To ensure internal temp reaches 165°F.

Instructions
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the Cornish hen completely dry with paper towels. Season generously inside and out with sea salt flakes and coarse black pepper, pressing the spices into the skin.
  2. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). In a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, add oil and place potatoes cut-side down. Add carrots around the edges and sear for 3 minutes.
  3. Place the hen in the center of the skillet. Nestle garlic cloves and herb sprigs among the vegetables. Roast for 45-50 minutes until the skin is blistered and golden.
  4. Brush the bird with melted butter or pan drippings in the final 5 minutes. Remove from oven when internal temp is 165°F (74°C). Rest for 10 minutes before garnishing with parsley.

Notes

Always roast potatoes cut-side down for maximum caramelization.
Keep garlic in its skin to prevent burning and create a sweet, spreadable texture.
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