HowLongToSmoke

How Long to Smoke Cornish hen

A personal-size smoked bird. Get the cook time and the temp to pull it.

Updated June 2026

How long will it take?

Estimated cook:
Pull at 165°F internal. Add 1–2 hours of buffer for the stall + a rest before serving.

Gear for the cook

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Smoking cornish hen: the short answer

Plan for about 50 minutes per pound at 275F, roughly 1 hours for a typical 1.5 lb cut. Pull it at 165F internal. Run 275-300F for crisp skin. Pull at 165F in the breast. Spatchcock for even cooking.

Pro tip

Run 275-300F for crisp skin. Pull at 165F in the breast. Spatchcock for even cooking.

Cook to temp, not time

Every smoke is different. A good wireless thermometer is the single best upgrade for consistent BBQ: set the target temp and cook until it hits.

FAQ

How long does it take to smoke cornish hen?
About 50 minutes per pound at 275F, roughly 1 hours for 1.5 lbs, but always finish by internal temperature (~165F).
What temp do you pull cornish hen?
Pull cornish hen at about 165F internal, then rest before serving. Run 275-300F for crisp skin. Pull at 165F in the breast. Spatchcock for even cooking.

More smoking tools

How Long to Smoke BrisketHow Long to Smoke Pork butt (pulled pork)How Long to Smoke Pork shoulderHow Long to Smoke Baby back ribsHow Long to Smoke Spare ribsHow Long to Smoke Whole chicken