For a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that practically cooks itself, try this Slow Cooker Cornish Hen. With tender, juicy meat and a medley of aromatic vegetables, this dish is a wonderful way to elevate your evening meal with minimal effort. Perfect for one or two meals, this recipe blends herbs, spices, and fresh produce for a meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen—when in reality, your slow cooker did all the work.
More favorite small slow cooker meals to try include Tuscan Chicken Thighs and this tasty Apricot Chicken.
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Cornish Hen: The star of the dish, Cornish hens are small and tender. If unavailable, you can substitute with a small chicken or even bone-in chicken breasts for a similar effect.
- All-Purpose Flour: Used to coat the hen and create a light crust.
- Zucchini: Adds a creamy texture to the vegetable medley. Eggplant or yellow squash can be used as an alternative.
- Green Pepper: Brings a fresh, slightly bitter flavor. Substitute with red, yellow, or orange bell peppers for a sweeter taste.
- Button Mushrooms: Earthy and tender, but Portobello or Cremini mushrooms work just as well.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a robust aroma. Garlic powder can be used if fresh cloves aren’t available.
- Chicken Broth: Provides a savory base. Low-sodium broth or vegetable stock are good substitutes.
- Dried Oregano and Basil: Key herbs for the Basque-inspired flavor. Fresh herbs can be used; just double the quantity for a stronger flavor.
Recipe Notes
To make this recipe perfectly:
- Ensure Proper Coating: Shaking the hen in the flour mixture evenly distributes seasoning and creates a slight crust when cooked.
- Layer Vegetables First: Always place the vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent them from overcooking and to create a flavorful base for the hen.
- Use Low Heat: Slow cooking on low ensures the hen remains tender and juicy.
- Avoid Peeking: Resist the temptation to lift the lid while cooking; this releases heat and extends cooking time.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use frozen Cornish hen? A: Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper seasoning.
Q: How do I know if the hen is cooked? A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165°F in the thickest part of the meat.
Q: Can I add potatoes or other root vegetables? A: Absolutely! Potatoes, carrots, or parsnips can be added to the bottom layer for a heartier meal. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
Q: Can this recipe be doubled? A: Yes, but ensure your slow cooker is large enough to fit two hens without overcrowding. Cooking time may need a slight adjustment.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Allow the hen and vegetables to cool, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the meat.
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Slow Cooker Basque Cornish Hen (Poulet Basquaise)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon paprika
- 1½-2 pound Cornish hen
- 3 slices onion sliced about eighth of inch thick
- ¼ cup zucchini peeled & cubed
- ¼ each green pepper sliced thin
- 4 each button mushrooms sliced
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ⅛ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ cup diced tomatoes
- ⅓ cup chicken broth low sodium
Instructions
- In a large Ziploc bag, mix the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Place the Cornish Hen in the bag and shake to coat.2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt, ⅛ teaspoon black pepper, ⅛ teaspoon paprika
- Coat the inside of the 3-quart slow cooker insert with olive oil. Add the onions, zucchini, green pepper, mushrooms, and garlic on the bottom of the slow cooker.3 slices onion, ¼ cup zucchini, ¼ each green pepper, 4 each button mushrooms, 1 clove garlic, 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Place the Hen on top of the vegetables and sprinkle the basil and oregano,a little extra salt and chicken broth over the hen.1½-2 pound Cornish hen, ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt, ⅛ teaspoon dried oregano, ¼ teaspoon dried basil, ⅓ cup chicken broth
- Cover and cook on low setting for 6 hours.
Notes
- Shaking the Cornish Hen in the flour mixture evenly distributes seasoning and creates a slight crust when cooked.
- Slow cooking on low ensures the hen remains tender and juicy.
- Resist the temptation to lift the lid while cooking; this releases heat and extends cooking time.
Nutrition Disclaimer
I am not a certified Dietitian or Nutritionist. The nutrition amounts given below is an estimate only and provided as a general guide only.