How to Deep Fry Cornish Hens in a Turkey Fryer
Deep frying isn’t just for turkeys—imagine the deliciousness of a perfectly crispy, golden-brown Cornish hen straight from the fryer!
If you’ve been searching for new and exciting ways to enjoy these mini chickens, you’re in the right place.
Today, we’re going to walk you through everything you need to know about how to deep fry Cornish hens in a turkey fryer.
This method delivers a wonderfully crunchy exterior while keeping the meat moist and juicy on the inside.
Get ready for a mouthwatering adventure that will make your taste buds dance!
Why Deep Fry Cornish Hens?
Cornish hens are like the little rockstars of the poultry world. They’re tender, flavorful, and perfect for individual servings.
Deep frying them gives you that crispy skin and juicy meat that everyone craves, much like a deep-fried turkey but without the long cook time.
Plus, frying a Cornish hen is incredibly easy once you know the steps!
Let’s dive into this delectable cooking process so you can impress your family and friends at your next gathering.
@kimmyskreations Deep Fried Cornish Hens using only @Tony Chachere inside and out! #kimmyskreations #tonychacheres #bussin ♬ original sound - KimmyKreations
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment
Before you start frying a Cornish hen, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment ready. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 2 to 4 Cornish hens (depending on the size of your fryer)
- 1 gallon of peanut oil (or any high smoke point oil like canola or vegetable oil)
- Your favorite poultry seasoning or a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne
- Optional: Marinade or brine for extra flavor and juiciness
Equipment:
- Turkey fryer with a pot large enough to submerge the hens
- Meat thermometer
- Frying basket or hooks
- Paper towels and a wire rack for draining
Step 2: Preparing the Cornish Hens
Preparation is key to getting the perfect deep fried Cornish hen. Start by patting the hens dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because excess moisture can cause the hot oil to splatter, which is both dangerous and messy.
Once dried, season the hens generously with your preferred seasoning mix. Be sure to rub the seasoning under the skin and inside the cavity to ensure maximum flavor.
If you want to go the extra mile, consider marinating the hens for a few hours or overnight. This will infuse them with even more flavor and keep them moist when frying.
Step 3: Preheat the Oil in Your Turkey Fryer
Now, it’s time to heat the oil. Set up your turkey fryer outdoors on a flat, stable surface—safety first!
Fill the deep fryer with clean oil, making sure not to exceed the maximum fill line. Preheat the oil to 350°F. This is the ideal temperature for deep frying Cornish hens, ensuring a crispy skin and fully cooked meat without burning.
Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature closely, as maintaining the correct heat is key to getting that perfect fried Cornish hen.
Step 4: Frying the Cornish Hens
Once the oil is at the right temperature, it’s time for the star of the show—frying the Cornish hens!
Carefully lower the seasoned hens into the hot oil using a frying basket or hooks. Do not overcrowd the fryer; fry one or two hens at a time to ensure even cooking.
The cooking time for a Cornish hen is about 10-12 minutes per pound. Therefore, a typical 1.5-pound Cornish hen should take around 15-18 minutes to cook thoroughly.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
To make sure your deep fried Cornish hen is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the meat's internal temperature.
The thickest part of the thigh should read at least 165°F. If the temperature is lower, continue frying in increments of 2-3 minutes and recheck until done.
Step 6: Let Them Rest and Serve
Once your hens are golden brown and have reached the right internal temperature, carefully remove them from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Related: How to Make Fried Pickles in a Deep Fryer
How Do You Know When a Cornish Game Hen is Done?
To determine if a Cornish game hen is fully cooked, you should use a thermometer to check the meat's internal temperature.
Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast or thigh, making sure not to touch any bones.
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), as recommended by the USDA for all poultry. At this temperature, the meat should no longer be pink and the juices should run clear.
Visually, the skin should also be a golden brown color, indicating that it is done cooking.
For best results, allow the Cornish game hen to rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the heat. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it tender and flavorful.
Tips for Perfectly Fried Cornish Hens
- Season Generously: Don’t sleep on the seasoning! A well-seasoned bird makes all the difference.
- Mind the Oil Temperature: Too low, and your hens will absorb excess oil; too high, and they may burn on the outside while remaining undercooked inside.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: It’s the best way to ensure your Cornish hens are cooked to perfection.
- Safety First: Always fry outdoors away from flammable materials, and have a fire extinguisher nearby just in case.
Related: Gas vs Electric Deep Fryers: The Complete Comparison
Wrapping it Up
Deep frying Cornish hens in a turkey fryer is an adventure in culinary delight that you’ll want to experience again and again.
The combination of crispy skin and tender, juicy meat is a flavor explosion that’s hard to beat.
Whether you’re preparing a special meal for family and friends or just treating yourself to something extraordinary, this method of cooking will undoubtedly become a favorite.
Now, grab your turkey fryer, pick up some Cornish hens, and get ready to dive into a world of deliciousness.
Happy frying!