Air Fryer Cornish Hens

4.89 from 18 votes

Air fryer Cornish hens come out golden brown and crispy with juicy, tender meat. The air fryer makes this recipe super easy with just a handful of spices and lemon needed for flavor. Just as perfect for a small holiday celebration as it is for a weeknight dinner.

Prep Time10

Cook Time35

Total Time45

Course: Main Dishes

Cuisine: American

Keyword: air fryer Cornish game hens, air fryer Cornish hen recipe, air fryer Cornish hens, Cornish hens in air fryer

Servings: servings

Author: Gina Matsoukas

Ingredients

2 Cornish hens about 3 pounds total
1 tablespoon avocado oil
1 1/2 teaspoons Kosher salt
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried sage
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 lemon cut into quarters

Instructions

If using an air fryer with a rotisserie function, place the Cornish hens onto the metal skewer otherwise skip to step #2.
Brush all sides of the Cornish hens with the avocado oil. Combine the seasonings in a small bowl and rub onto the Cornish hens coating all surfaces.
Place the lemon quarters into the cavity of each hen, squeezing the juice out of the lemon a bit as you do it.
Affix the rotisserie skewer into the air fryer. Or, place Cornish hens into the basket of the air fryer.
Air fry at 400°F for 35 minutes or until the internal temperature reads 165°F using an instant read thermometer.
Remove the Cornish hens from the air fryer. Cover with aluminum foil and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Nutrition