Cornish Game Hen with Lemon and Garlic
Cornish Game Hen with Lemon and Garlic is a classic dish featuring a small, whole roasted bird, typically weighing around 1 pound (450g). It is seasoned generously with bright lemon juice, zesty zest, and aromatic garlic cloves, then roasted until the skin is crisp and the meat is tender. This elegant preparation is popular in American cuisine, often served as a sophisticated main course for special occasions.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in protein and relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a nutrient-dense meal. It provides a good source of essential nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, and phosphorus, with a typical serving containing approximately 400-500 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 55 g |
| Carbs | 2 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 12 mg |
| Selenium | 35 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 300 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 1.0 mg |
| Zinc | 3.5 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Iron | 1.8 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.3 mg |
Per 1 whole roasted Cornish game hen (approx. 450g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, the Cornish game hen is a uniquely American creation, first popularized in the 1950s as a gourmet poultry option. Nutritionally, it offers a lean, high-quality protein source with a favorable amino acid profile, and the lemon and garlic not only add flavor but also contribute antioxidants and potential anti-inflammatory compounds.
