Step 1

Preheat the oven to 425°.

Step 2

Pat the hens dry inside the cavity and on the outside with paper towels. Set them aside.

Step 3

In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the garlic, lemon zest, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and oil until combined.

Step 4

Evenly divide the garlic and herb rub between the hens and coat them on all sides and in the cavity.

Step 5

Tuck the wings behind the hen and tie the drums together using butcher’s twine.

Step 6

Transfer them to a roasting pan on a rack, and using a spatula scrape all the remaining herb and garlic oil rub onto the top of the hens.

Step 7

Bake in the oven on a lower rack at 425° for 50-60 minutes or until the thickest part of the breast reads 163° to 165°.

Step 8

Remove the game hens and rest for 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 9

Cut the hens in half along with the spice, or serve them whole with optional garnishes of lemons, fresh rosemary, and thyme.