Cornish game hens, despite their name, are domestically raised chickens that have not reached their full size. These small birds make a delightful meal for special occasions or casual dinners. Here are 15 steps to help you perfectly cook Cornish game hens.

1. Purchase fresh or frozen Cornish game hens at your local grocery store or butcher shop.

2. Defrost the hens in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours if they are frozen.

3. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).

4. Remove the giblets from the cavity of each hen and save them for another use or discard.

5. Rinse each hen under cold water and pat them dry using paper towels.

6. Trim any excess fat from around the cavity opening and neck area with kitchen shears or a sharp knife.

7. Season the inside of the hens with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Prepare a seasoning mix for the outside of the hens by combining oil or melted butter, minced garlic, chopped herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley), salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

9. Rub the seasoning mix all over each hen, making sure to coat both the top and bottom evenly.

10. Truss the legs together using butcher’s twine to help them cook more evenly and maintain their shape while roasting.

11. Place each seasoned hen on a rack set in a roasting pan with enough space between them for air to circulate freely around them.

12. Roast the hens in the preheated oven for approximately 45-55 minutes, basting occasionally with additional melted butter or pan juices if desired.

13. Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thigh meat without touching bone – it should register at least 165°F (74°C). If the hens are not quite done, continue roasting and checking the temperature every 5-10 minutes.

14. Once the hens are cooked through, remove them from the oven and let them rest, loosely covered with aluminum foil, for 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

15. Carve the hens into desired serving portions and enjoy alongside your favorite side dishes.

By following these 15 steps, you’ll have delicious, tender, and beautifully roasted Cornish game hens that impress everyone at your dinner table.