Discover what this petite poultry is, what it has to offer, and how best to prepare it.
The Intriguing Differences Between Chicken and Cornish Game Hen
There are two common types of chicken on dinner tables: the chicken and the Cornish game hen. They are different in size, flavor, and how they are used in cooking. Home cooks can choose the right bird for their meal if they know these differences.
What is a Cornish Game Hen?
A Cornish game hen is a young chicken, typically under 2 pounds in weight. It is harvested at around 5-6 weeks old, before it is fully grown. Cornish game hens originated as a cross between Cornish chickens and Plymouth Rock chickens. Their petite size makes them perfect for individual servings.
Size Comparison
The most noticeable difference between chicken and Cornish game hen is size. Chickens are substantially larger, usually ranging from 3-6 pounds depending on the breed. In contrast, Cornish game hens weigh only 1.5-2 pounds. Their compact size allows them to be cooked and served whole.
Flavor Profiles
When it comes to taste, Cornish game hens tend to be a little richer and more concentrated than chicken. Because they are young and have smaller bodies, they have less fat, so the meat is lean but juicy. There are different breeds of chicken that have milder tastes. Chickens that taste stronger might have a stronger flavor than Cornish game hen.
Texture Differences
Cornish game hen meat is delicate and tender because the birds are picked when they are still young. If you cook the meat the right way, it can be very moist and soft. Different cuts of chicken have different textures. Dark leg and thigh meat is usually more tender than white breast meat.
Culinary Uses
People usually roast Cornish game hens whole, with or without a lid, depending on whether they want the skin to get crispy or the meat to stay juicy. Their petite size allows even cooking. Chicken is more flexible because you can roast it whole or cut it up to grill, sauté, braise, or put in soups and stews.
Nutritional Value
Both Cornish game hen and chicken provide lean protein, vitamins, and minerals. Per ounce, Cornish game hen has slightly less fat and more protein than chicken. The protein aids muscle growth and development, while the lower fat makes Cornish game hen a leaner choice.
Pricing and Availability
Chicken is widely available year-round at grocery stores and markets. Cornish game hen is less common and may need to be special ordered from a butcher. Per pound, Cornish game hens typically cost more than chicken since they are smaller specialty birds.
Popular Preparation Methods
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Roast Cornish game hens at 375°F for 45-60 minutes until juices run clear. Baste with butter or olive oil for added moisture.
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Grill Cornish game hens after splitting or butterflying them. Grill skin-side down first.
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Braise Cornish game hens in broth and aromatics, then roast at 350°F to crispen the skin.
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Roast chickens whole or in parts at 350-425°F until fully cooked. Cutting up lets you use different techniques.
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Braise chicken pieces in sauce or simmer in soup. Works well for tougher cuts like thighs.
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Grill bone-in chicken parts over medium heat, turning occasionally to prevent burning.
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Sauté boneless chicken breasts, medallions, or cubes in a pan for fast cooking.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve roasted Cornish game hens with wild rice pilaf and roasted vegetables for an elegant dinner.
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Pair chicken thighs with zucchini and bell peppers for fajitas or tacos.
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Shred roasted chicken breast for sandwiches, wraps, or salads.
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Chicken and dumplings or matzo ball soup are comfort food classics.
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Skewer chicken cubes with peppers and onions for kabobs.
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FAQ
Do Cornish game hens taste different than chicken?
It is said that Cornish hens have a milder flavor than chicken and that they soak up marinades and other seasonings better. Mar 30, 2024.
Do game chickens lay eggs?
Yes, game chickens do lay eggs. However, they typically lay fewer eggs per year compared to other breeds bred for high egg production, like Rhode Island Reds.
Can one person eat a whole Cornish hen?
For most Cornish hens in the 1. 25 to 1. 5 pound range, one bird serves one person. Larger hens can be split in half to serve two guests.
Why is Cornish hen so expensive?
Multiple reasons. Cornish Hens are chickens, but a very small breed plus being harvested fairly early. Because of this, it takes them longer to reach the same weight as a bigger breed, which makes them more expensive.