Spatched Rock Cornish Hen

Rinse bird, pat dry, remove wing tips and backbone with shears or a knife then turn the hen breast side up, open it up like a book and then whack it a time or two with the heel of your hand (you can use your fist if you like) to crack the breastbone and flatten it out.

Tuck the wings under the thighs. Oil the hen, season with salt and pepper. Place rosemary, garlic and whatever other herbs you might like in the bottom of a skillet, lay the bird on top, and pop onto the top rack of a hot oven (400) until legs wiggle.

Spatchcocked Game Hen

An aromatic dish for small gatherings. These can be prepared on a sheet pan, but skillets make a better presentation. Preheat oven to 400. Rinse hen, pat dry, remove wing tips and backbone. Turn breast side up, open it up like a book, and whack it a time or two with your fist to crack the breastbone and flatten it out. Tuck the wings under the thighs. Oil the hen, season with salt and plenty of good black pepper. Line a well-oiled skillet with rosemary and garlic, place bird on top, and bake until browned.