Step 1

Preheat the air fryer to 245°F (118°C) and set it for 30 minutes.

Step 2

Gently transfer Cornish hen onto Air Fryer tray and slowly insert tray into the middle cooking chamber, near the rotisserie catch. Let’s start thawing the frozen Cornish hen.

Step 3

Slowly turn Cornish hen over after 10 minutes. No need to wait for the “turn food” reminder provided by the Air Fryer.

Step 4

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix garlic powder and smoked sweet paprika. Set aside.

Step 5

After 10 minutes, increase the temperature to 270°F (132°C), then slowly turn Cornish hen, wing side up. Then turn over the other side of the wing after 5 minutes.

Step 6

Slowly remove the Air Fryer tray with thawed Cornish hen. See tips or notes when closing the door.

Step 7

Before the Air Fryer timer ends (30 minutes set), increase the heat to 370°F (188°C) and set the timer to 45 minutes.

Step 8

Pat dry the whole Cornish hen. Remove any remaining broken ice from the cavity, if any.

Step 9

Season cavity of Cornish hen with salt and ground black pepper.

Step 10

Brush the skin with olive oil. Season with the salt, ground black pepper, and the garlic mixture.

Step 11

Slowly insert Air Fryer tray into the middle cooking chamber, near the rotisserie catch.

Step 12

Turn on each side after every 10 minutes, with the breast side up at the last 5 minutes.

Step 13

Once the whole Cornish hen is golden after 45 minutes and the instant-read thermometer registers 165°F at the thickest part of the inner thigh while the juices run clear, remove the Air Fryer tray.

Step 14

Allow to Air Fryer Cornish hen to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.