Pat's Deep-Fried Cornish Game Hens

INGREDIENTS

• 1 onion, cut into wedges
• 1 tablespoon crushed red-pepper flakes
• Peanut oil, for frying
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons lemon-pepper seasoning
• 1 bunch fresh thyme sprigs
• 3 quarts buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
• 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• Six 1 1/2-pound Cornish game hens
• 2 cups all-purpose flour