x 1½ lb game hen

A game hen, also known as a Cornish game hen or Rock Cornish game hen, is a small domestic chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) bred to remain diminutive, typically weighing 1–2.5 pounds at slaughter. It is a hybrid resulting from crossing Cornish and White Rock chicken breeds, developed in the mid-20th century. Game hens are characterized by compact bodies with proportionally larger thighs and drumsticks relative to breast meat, firm white and dark meat, and a flavor profile more pronounced than standard broiler chickens due to higher fat content and slower maturation.\n\nDespite the name, game hens are not wild birds; the term reflects their tender texture and rich flavor reminiscent of game fowl. They are raised in the same conditions as conventional poultry but harvested at 4–8 weeks of age, compared to 6–9 weeks for standard broilers. The small size makes them ideal for individual or two-person servings.

Game hens are prized for their tender meat, high fat content, and suitability for whole-bird presentation and cooking. A single bird commonly serves one to two people, making them popular for elegant plating in fine dining and special occasions. They are roasted whole (often butterflied or spatchcocked), poached, braised, or grilled; their small size allows even cooking throughout while achieving crispy skin. Common preparations include herb-butter roasting, Asian glazes, Mediterranean marinades, and simple lemon-garlic treatments. The proportionally larger thighs benefit from moist-heat cooking, while the whole bird's size permits rapid high-heat roasting. Game hens pair well with bold flavors—peppercorns, fresh herbs, and acidic elements like wine reductions.