Spicy Lemon Pepper Cornish Game Hen (Air Fryer)
If you love bold flavor and crispy skin, this Spicy Lemon Pepper Cornish Game Hen is about to be your new favorite. Made in the air fryer for maximum ease and minimal cleanup, this recipe features zesty lemon pepper seasoning, a touch of heat from cayenne, and a golden crispy skin that crackles with every bite. Whether you're making a weeknight dinner or a special meal for two, this is one of those cornish game hen recipes that will steal the show.
Equipment
- Air fryer (basket or oven style)
- Paper towels
- Small bowl for spice mix
- Basting brush or spoon
- Meat thermometer
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 2 cornish game hens 1 to 1.5 lbs each, thawed if frozen
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste about 1/2 tsp depending on seasoning mix
- Optional garnish: lemon slices fresh parsley or cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Dry the Hens: Pat the hens dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp.
- Mix the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, lemon pepper, garlic powder, cayenne, onion powder, and salt.
- Season the Hens: Rub the seasoned oil mixture evenly over and under the skin of both hens.
- Air Fry (Breast Side Down): Spray the air fryer basket lightly with oil. Place hens breast side down and cook for 25 minutes.
- Flip & Finish Cooking: Turn hens breast side up and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest & Garnish: Let hens rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon slices and parsley or cilantro.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
Pair with:
- Roasted sweet potatoes or wild rice
- Grilled asparagus, green beans, or sautéed spinach
- A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette
🔄 Storage & Reheating:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3–4 days.
- Freeze: Shred leftover meat and freeze in zip-top bags up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Air fry at 350°F for 5–7 minutes or reheat in a foil-wrapped dish in the oven.
🔢 Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories 620 kcal
- Protein 48 g
- Fat 44 g
- Saturated Fat 10 g
- Carbohydrates 2 g
- Sugar 0 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Sodium 780 mg
Nutrition values are estimates and will vary depending on the size of the hens and exact ingredients used.
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Notes
Adjust the cayenne to your preferred spice level or omit if serving kids.
For even cooking and crisping, make sure hens are not touching in the air fryer basket.
Add a splash of lemon juice right before serving for an extra punch of flavor.
📌 Pin, Save, or Share This Recipe
This spicy, citrusy take on cornish game hens is one to save! Pin it to your favorite dinner or air fryer board, print it for your recipe binder, or share with a foodie friend who loves bold flavors.
This spicy, citrusy take on cornish game hens is one to save! Pin it to your favorite dinner or air fryer board, print it for your recipe binder, or share with a foodie friend who loves bold flavors.