Air Fryer Cornish Hens - Little Sunny Kitchen

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 45

Total Time 50

Preheat the Air Fryer at 350°F/180°C.
In a small bowl combine the smoked paprika with garlic powder, salt and pepper.
Drizzle olive oil over the Cornish hens, then season with the dry rub so they’re well coated.
Place the Cornish hens in the Air Fryer basket, breast side up and air fry for 20 minutes. Flip, and cook for 20 more minutes or until the thickest part of the breast is at least 165°F/74°C.
Flip again (breast side up) and air fry for 5 more minutes to get crispy skin.
Using tongs, remove from the air fryer onto a plate, and allow to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing/serving. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice (it nicely flavors the chicken).

Switch up the seasoning in this recipe to the flavors you love. Italian seasoning is one I like to use sometimes as well as a poultry seasoning from time to time. The great thing about using different combinations of spices and herbs is it’ll give you an entirely different taste every time.
Remember to preheat your air fryer. You may notice that some recipes, depending on what they are, require no preheating. This one does!
Bringing your hens to room temperature at least 30-40 minutes before air frying can help with even cooking.
For much easier clean-up and to help with a nonstick surface, use parchment lining for the air fryer basket.
Always use a thermometer to check the internal temperature. It’s the most accurate way to tell if your cooked Cornish game hen is fully cooked.