What Is A Cornish Game Hen?

What is a Cornish Game Hen? This term invokes a scene in my head of a vast castle hall, full of fashionable royalty and a table full of a feast of roast chickens. Even if the term invokes a similar thought for you or not, the designation is rather interesting because the definition has less to do with the breed or gender and all to do with the bird’s size!

A Cornish Game Hen is a Cornish cross bird that is processed around 4-5 weeks old that results in a bird that is 2 pounds or less. This classification is set by the USDA. At this small size, the skin of the bird is thinner, the meat is more tender and this allows for better absorption of marinades, spices, and sauces. Since the bird is small, the single-serving size makes it a favorite for high-end restaurants and chefs.

The appearance of a full bird as a single entree makes for a dramatic statement. Believe it or not, they can be found at most grocery stores and butcher shops, and of course, Meyer Hatchery Cornish Cross chicks can be raised for a homegrown bird. Recipes for this delicacy are abundant and most involve variations of classic roast chicken. My own imaginings of them is way off because Cornish Cross chickens are a product of 20th century America and the designation of Game Hen is fairly recent.

So the Cornish Game Hen; not a purebred Cornish, not a game bird, and there’s a 50/50 chance it is actually a hen! Interested in raising Cornish Hens? Follow our guide to successfully raising cornish cross chickens, and just process a few weeks early! We would love to hear how you enjoy these culinary delicacies?!