Name: Stuffed Cornish Game Hens
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 Cornish game hens; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 cup bread crumbs; 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped; 1/2 cup carrots, finely chopped; 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional); 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 1/4 cup white grape juice or apple juice for basting

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If you’re looking for a dish that impresses without requiring a culinary degree, then Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are just what you need. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and for good reason! These charming little birds are not only delightful to look at but also packed with flavor, making them perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. The stuffing is simple yet delicious, enhancing the natural taste of the hens and creating a meal that feels both special and comforting.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating your family to something nice after a long day, these stuffed game hens won’t disappoint. They bring elegance to the table while being surprisingly easy to prepare. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create an impressive dish that looks like it took hours.
Family-Friendly Appeal: The mild flavors and tender meat make these hens a hit with kids and adults alike.
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the stuffing ahead of time and stuff the hens when you’re ready to cook.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a savory filling that complements the hens perfectly.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or an ordinary weeknight, these stuffed hens make any meal feel special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Stuffed Cornish Game Hens shine. Don’t worry; they are all simple, wholesome items you can find easily! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Hens

4 Cornish game hens, thawed (if frozen)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika

For the Stuffing

1 cup bread crumbs (or cubed bread)
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
1/2 cup carrots, finely chopped
1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons butter, melted

For Basting

1/4 cup white grape juice or apple juice

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to switch things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some tasty variations to consider:

Add Different Nuts: Substitute pecans or walnuts with almonds or pine nuts for a different crunch.
Change Up the Veggies: Mix in some bell peppers or mushrooms in place of celery or carrots for added flavor.
Try Different Fruits: Instead of raisins or cranberries, use chopped apples or apricots for a sweet twist.
Season It Differently: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Hens

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, rinse your Cornish game hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the skin crisp up beautifully during baking.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

In a large mixing bowl, combine your bread crumbs, onion, celery, carrots, raisins (if using), nuts (if using), parsley, chicken broth, and melted butter. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. This savory stuffing will add moisture and flavor to our hens.

Step 3: Stuff the Hens

Gently lift the skin of each hen and spoon in some of your stuffing mixture. Be careful not to overstuff; leave enough room for the stuffing to expand as it cooks. Rub olive oil all over each hen’s skin and season generously with garlic powder, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Bake

Place your stuffed game hens breast-side up in a roasting pan. Pour a splash of white grape juice or apple juice over them for basting. Bake in your preheated oven for about 1 hour and 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Basting every 20 minutes will help keep them moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Serve

Once done, remove from oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Serve each hen on individual plates alongside your favorite sides—your guests will be impressed!

With this recipe for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens in hand, you’re set for an unforgettable meal! Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Making stuffed Cornish game hens is a delightful culinary adventure, and these tips will ensure your dish turns out perfect every time!

Choose the right hens: Look for fresh Cornish game hens that are plump and have a good amount of meat. This ensures they will be juicy and flavorful after cooking.
Season generously: Don’t be shy with your seasonings! Properly seasoning both the inside and outside of the hens enhances their natural flavors and prevents them from tasting bland.
Allow to rest: Letting the stuffed game hens rest for about 10 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and delicious.
Use a meat thermometer: To achieve perfectly cooked hens, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees food safety while keeping the meat tender.
Experiment with stuffing: Feel free to customize your stuffing with different herbs, nuts, or dried fruits. This versatility allows you to create a dish that reflects your personal taste!

How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Serving stuffed Cornish game hens is all about presentation and complementing flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine at the dinner table!

Garnishes

Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or thyme over the finished dish for a pop of color and freshness.
Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side; a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully.
Pomegranate seeds: For a festive touch, scatter pomegranate seeds around the plate. Their vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor create an eye-catching contrast.

Side Dishes

Roasted seasonal vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes add warmth and balance to your meal.
Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpart to the rich flavors of the hens.
Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are always a hit! Their buttery texture pairs wonderfully with the savory stuffing.
Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt and pepper add a lovely crunch and vibrant color to your plate.

With these serving suggestions, your stuffed Cornish game hens will not only taste incredible but also look like they belong in a gourmet restaurant! Enjoy your culinary masterpiece with family or friends; it’s sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are not only a fantastic choice for a special occasion, but they also make for wonderful meal prep! Preparing these flavorful hens ahead of time can save you time on busy days while ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the stuffed Cornish game hens to cool completely before storing.
Wrap each hen tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place the wrapped hens in an airtight container or a resealable bag.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

After cooling, wrap the stuffed hens in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Label and date the packaging for easy identification.
Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, use within 1-2 months.

Reheating

Thaw frozen hens in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the hens in a baking dish, add a splash of chicken broth or juice to keep them moist, and cover with foil.
Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to crisp up the skin.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens!

Can I use other types of stuffing for my Stuffed Cornish Game Hens?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your stuffing with ingredients like quinoa, wild rice, or even your favorite vegetables. Just ensure that any substitutions maintain moisture and flavor.

How long should I cook Stuffed Cornish Game Hens?

Typically, Stuffed Cornish Game Hens should be cooked for about 1 hour and 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Always check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C) before serving.

Can I prepare Stuffed Cornish Game Hens a day ahead?

Yes! You can prepare and stuff the hens a day ahead. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. This makes it easy to serve an impressive meal with minimal effort.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these delightful Stuffed Cornish Game Hens! They are not only delicious but also beautifully presentable, perfect for impressing family and friends. Don’t hesitate to try out this recipe—you’re sure to create wonderful memories around your dining table. Enjoy every bite!

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Stuffed Cornish Game Hens, a dish that combines elegance and comfort into one unforgettable meal. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, these charming little birds are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. The savory stuffing, made with wholesome ingredients, enhances the natural taste of the hens, creating a beautiful centerpiece for your dinner table. With simple preparation steps and versatile stuffing options, you can craft a dish that caters to your personal taste while maintaining a gourmet feel.

Ingredients

Scale

4 Cornish game hens
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
1 cup bread crumbs
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
1/2 cup carrots, finely chopped
1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/4 cup white grape juice or apple juice for basting

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse and pat dry the Cornish game hens.
In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, chopped onion, celery, carrots, raisins (if using), chicken broth, and melted butter. Season with salt and pepper.
Gently lift the skin of each hen to spoon in the stuffing mixture without overstuffing. Rub olive oil on the skin and season with garlic powder, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Place hens breast-side up in a roasting pan and baste with white grape juice or apple juice. Bake for about 1 hour and 10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting every 20 minutes.
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.