How to cook Cornish hens in the oven:

• Pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees F. with a 12 inch cast iron skillet inside.
• Cut the onion into quarters.
• Place the potatoes, carrots, and onions in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. Toss well to coat.
• Rinse the hens and pat dry with paper towels.
• In a small bowl, mix together the salt, thyme, oregano, and ground black pepper and set aside.
• Rub 1 Tbsp of olive oil, divided evenly, over the top and bottom of each hen.
• Next rub the jarred minced garlic, divided evenly, over the top and bottom of each hen.
• Sprinkle half of the herb mixture (reserve the rest), divided evenly, all over the top and bottom of each hen.
• Remove the cast iron skillet from the oven and brush with olive oil.
• Place the hens into the center of the pan, breast side up. It will make a lovely sizzling sound. Be very careful not to touch the pan and get burned.
• Add the potatoes, carrots, and onions to the pan around the hens.
• Sprinkle the remainder of the seasonings over the veggies.
• Bake for 55 - 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
• Carefully transfer the hens and vegetables to serving plates and enjoy.