Delaware Smoked Cornish Game Hens on Arteflame

Introduction

Smoked Cornish game hens are a delicious, tender, and juicy dish, perfect for an outdoor feast. Cooking them on the Arteflame grill enhances their flavor with a rich, wood-fired sear. By searing these miniature hens on the center grill grate at 1,000°F, we lock in the juices, followed by a slow cook on the flat top cooktop. This method ensures an evenly cooked bird with crispy skin and succulent meat. Get ready to impress your guests with this mouthwatering smoked Cornish game hen recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 Cornish game hens
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
• 1 lemon, halved
• Wood fire logs for grilling

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build for 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Game Hens

1. Pat dry the Cornish game hens with paper towels.
2. Rub the melted butter all over the hens, ensuring even coverage.
3. Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper in a bowl.
4. Massage the spice mix onto the hens.
5. Place half a lemon inside each hen’s cavity.

Step 3: Sear the Game Hens

1. Place the hens directly onto the center grill grate for 2-3 minutes per side to create a perfect sear.

Step 4: Slow Cook on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the seared hens to the cooler outer edge of the Arteflame flat cooktop.
2. Cook for 35-40 minutes, turning occasionally for even cooking.
3. Remove from the grill when internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Remove the hens from the grill when they reach 150°F; they will continue to cook while resting.
• Use a digital meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Baste with butter while cooking for extra juiciness.
• Use fruitwood like apple or cherry for added sweetness.
• Pair with grilled vegetables and a side of garlic butter potatoes.

Variations

1. Herb Butter Hens: Replace the spice rub with a mix of rosemary, sage, and tarragon mixed into butter.
2. Spicy Cajun Hens: Add 1 tbsp of Cajun seasoning for a bold and spicy kick.
3. Honey Glazed Hens: Drizzle with honey before the last 10 minutes of grilling for a sweet caramelized crust.
4. Lemon Garlic Hens: Add minced garlic and lemon zest to the butter rub for a bright, zesty flavor.
5. Asian Inspired Hens: Marinate in soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil before grilling for an umami-packed dish.

Conclusion

Delaware Smoked Cornish Game Hens cooked on the Arteflame Grill deliver unparalleled flavor, succulence, and perfect sear. This recipe ensures a crispy skin and smoky wood-fired taste that will impress any guest. Enjoy the rich flavors and incredible texture of these game hens, grilled to perfection.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with lemon butter
• Garlic butter mashed potatoes
• Charred corn with smoked paprika
• Buttery cornbread
• A full-bodied Chardonnay or Pinot Noir
• Grilled peaches for dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream