Step 1

Rub olive oil on the game hens. Combine the garlic powder, salt, and pepper then sprinkle all over the hens. Make sure to sprinkle inside the cavity as well.

Step 2

Smash the garlic cloves slightly then stuff them inside the cavity of the hens. Stuff the lemon slices in the cavity.

Step 3

Cover the birds and place them in the fridge for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours (see notes).

Step 4

Remove the birds from the fridge and preheat the smoker to 225°F

Step 5

Place the hens on the grill. Smoke for 45 to 60 minutes at 225°F then increase the heat to 375° and cook for 20 to 30 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F

Step 6

Remove the hens from the grill cover them with foil and let them rest for 10 minutes. The temperature will continue to climb while the hens are resting. The final temperature of the hens should be 165°F. You can serve the Cornish game hens whole or split them in half.