Crispy Cornish Hen

Crispy Cornish hen recipe featuring hen that is brined, slow-smoked, and then roasted to a golden crispiness.

📝 Ingredients

• 2 small Cornish Hens
• 1 pint Buttermilk
• 2 tsp Cumin
• 1 tbsp Paprika
• 2 tsp Kosher Salt
• 2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1/4 cup Cilantro (roughly chopped)
• 3 sprigs fresh Thyme
• 1/2 tsp Lime Zest
• 1 medium Lime (Juiced)
• 4 Garlic Cloves (diced)
• 1/4 cup Duck Fat

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1Mix the dry spice ingredients together in a small ramekin.
2. 2Mix the buttermilk, lime juice, zest, garlic, fresh herbs, and half the dry seasoning mix.
3. 3Place the brine mix in a extra large ziplock bag. Add the Cornish hen to the brine and marinate overnight.
4. 4Remove the hen from the refrigerator. Rub each hen with duck fat below and above the skin.
5. 5Add the remaining dried spice mix all over the hens as well as under the skin.
6. 6Pre-heat smoker between 225-275 degrees. Add the hens and smoke for about an hour.
7. 7Remove from smoker and finish in the oven at 450 degrees. Remove and let rest about 5 minutes.