Air Fryer Cornish Hen
Ready in about 49 minutes.
Updated 7 September 2026
A whole little Cornish hen roasts to golden, crisp-skinned perfection, ideal for an elegant dinner for two. The compact air fryer cooks it faster than the oven while keeping the delicate meat succulent and full of flavour.
Ingredients
- 2 Cornish hens, about 500 g each
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp rosemary, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon, halved
Method
- 1Pat the hens dry and rub all over with butter, oil and seasonings.
- 2Pop a lemon half inside each cavity.
- 3Preheat the air fryer to 190°C (375°F).
- 4Cook breast-side down for 15 minutes.
- 5Flip breast-side up and cook 15-23 minutes more until golden.
- 6Check the thigh reaches 74°C (165°F), then rest for 10 minutes.
Tips for the best results
- Truss the legs with string for even cooking and a neat look.
- Rest before carving so the juices redistribute.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer cornish hen?+
Cook at 190°C / 375°F for 30-38 min, flip halfway.