Easy & Healthy Rotisserie Style Air Fryer Cornish Hen

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This recipe may have never happened if it weren’t for the pandemic. Obviously we all wished the pandemic never happened, but I am always looking for the silver linings in every situation. Focusing on the positive things we can enjoy bring peace during times like these.

I was craving a rotisserie chicken but the Aldi near us doesn’t sell them, & I didn’t want to go to multiple stores (because: corona). So I wanted to try making my own in my Air Fryer at home. The first hurdle was to find a whole chicken that was the right size for my air fryer.

What size air fryer do I need to roast a whole chicken?

After some research, I realized that my “XL” Air Fryer was actually pretty small compared to other options available. It is a 3.4 quart PowerXL. For good air circulation, a 2 – 3 lb chicken would fit well. However, the Aldi near us only sells whole chickens closer to 5 pounds.

The next best option then was to try the frozen Cornish Game Hens from Aldi. They are a little over a pound each, so it’s possible to fit two side-by-side in the 3.4 quart air-fryer. They are snug, as you can see, but it gets the job done!

How to Season Cornish Game Hens for Roasting

The spice blend for the chicken only includes pantry staples, so you don’t need to buy any complicated, expensive, or hard to find spices. The five spices you need are salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano.

Paprika, smoked or not, would be a great addition if you have it on hand. If you prefer some spice in your food, a little cayenne adds some lingering spice or chipotle powder gives it a smoky spicy flavor. For the cayenne or chipotle, start with a small amount before taste testing the blend and add more as needed.

How Long Does a Whole Chicken Need to Cook in an Air Fryer?

It will depend on your air fryer! I always recommend using a meat thermometer to know for sure your bird is done without cutting into it & releasing all of the wonderful juices. I use this thermometer & highly recommend it:

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it went! Please leave a comment and review below. I really appreciate all of your feedback & I love seeing your creations! Tag This & That on Instagram or Facebook.

Healthy Air Fryer Cornish Hens

Stephanie Ralya
Easy & healthy way to cook whole cornish game hens with a simple spice blend.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • 3.4 qt Air Fryer

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Cornish Game Hens
  • 2 tsp Salt
  • 2 tsp Black Pepper
  • 2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 2 tsp Dried Oregano

Instructions
 

  • Combine the seasonings in a small bowl & mix well. Spread mix all over the hens, lifting the legs & wings as needed to get underneath.
  • Spray the air-fryer basket with non-stick spray. Place hens in basket, breast side down. Cook at 370 F for 35 minutes.
  • Flip hens breast side up and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the breast is 165 F. (Not all air fryers are the same, always check with a meat thermometer.)
  • Let rest for 10 minutes before cutting.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

  • Optional spices for more heat: cayenne or chipotle powder.  Start with a small amount, about 1/8 tsp.  Taste test & add more if desired.
Keyword air fryer, chicken, easy, healthy, kid-friendly, whole 30

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