Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

If you’re looking for a dish that impresses without the fuss, Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are just what you need! These little birds are not only adorable, but they also bring a touch of elegance to any table. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to make a weeknight dinner feel special, this recipe is a go-to. The combination of tender meat and flavorful stuffing makes every bite a delight.

What I love most about these stuffed hens is how versatile they are. They can be dressed up for holidays or served alongside simple sides for an easy weeknight meal. Plus, they always leave my guests asking for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can get these hens ready to roast while you focus on other meal components.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the mild flavor and delicious stuffing that makes this dish so appealing.
• Perfectly Portable: These hens make great leftovers! They’re easy to reheat for lunch or dinner the next day.
• Customizable: Feel free to play around with flavors in the stuffing, making each batch uniquely yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that these simple, wholesome ingredients come together beautifully to create a comforting dish. Here’s what you’ll need for your Stuffed Cornish Game Hens:

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 parts about making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens is how flexible this recipe can be! If you’re feeling adventurous, try out some of these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken thighs or breasts instead of Cornish game hens for a different take.
• Change up the stuffing: Add cooked quinoa or wild rice for a heartier option.
• Add spices: Incorporate spices like cumin or curry powder in your stuffing for an exotic twist.
• Go vegetarian: Make a veggie-packed stuffing with mushrooms, spinach, and artichokes instead of meat.

How to Make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

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 to ensure that your skin gets crispy during roasting.

Step 2: Season the Hens

In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and paprika. Rub this mixture all over the hens—inside and out! This seasoning not only adds flavor but also helps keep the meat juicy as it cooks.

Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing

In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the onions until they are translucent. Then add in celery and carrots, cooking until softened. This step brings out their natural sweetness! Combine these veggies with bread crumbs, raisins (if using), nuts (if using), parsley, chicken broth, and melted butter in a large bowl. Mix well until everything is combined.

Step 4: Stuff the Hens

Carefully stuff each hen with your prepared mixture. Don’t pack it too tightly; air needs to circulate during cooking for perfectly moist meat. Any leftover stuffing can be baked separately in a small dish alongside your hens.

Step 5: Roast Away!

Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan breast-side up. Baste them with white grape juice or apple juice for added moisture and flavor. Roast in your preheated oven for about 1 hour and 10 minutes or until an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is reached. Basting every 20-30 minutes helps develop those beautiful flavors we crave!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, let your Stuffed Cornish Game Hens rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives them time to settle and makes slicing easier. Serve alongside your favorite sides and watch everyone dig in with delight!

Enjoy making this recipe as much as I do; it’s sure to become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Creating the perfect Stuffed Cornish Game Hens can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips!

• Choose the right size hens: Opt for hens that are about 1 to 1.5 pounds each. This ensures even cooking and makes for a beautifully presented dish that is easy to serve.

• Let the stuffing cool before filling: Allowing your stuffing to cool slightly before you fill the hens helps prevent the cooking process from starting too early, ensuring that both the meat and stuffing cook evenly.

• Baste regularly: Basting your hens with white grape juice or apple juice not only keeps them moist but also adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall flavor, making each bite deliciously juicy.

• Rest before serving: Allow your stuffed game hens to rest for at least 10 minutes after coming out of the oven. This helps redistribute the juices, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize your seasoning blend! Adding herbs like rosemary or sage can elevate the flavor profile and make your dish truly unique.

How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Presenting Stuffed Cornish Game Hens can be as delightful as making them! With a touch of creativity, you can turn this dish into an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top not only adds color but also enhances the aroma and flavor of your dish.
• Citrus slices: Placing lemon or orange slices around the hens adds a burst of freshness and brightens up the presentation.

Side Dishes

• Roasted root vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes tossed in olive oil and herbs create a hearty accompaniment that complements the richness of the hens.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast that balances out the meal.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and pair perfectly with the savory stuffing inside the hens.
• Steamed green beans: Bright green beans drizzled with lemon juice add color and crunch, making them an ideal side that’s both nutritious and delicious.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’ll create not just a meal but an unforgettable dining experience! Enjoy every moment spent savoring this delightful dish with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are not just a fantastic dinner option; they’re also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on busy weeknights or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the hens to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap each hen tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped hens in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

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 water, and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until heated through. Remove foil during the last 10 minutes for a crispy skin.

FAQs

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

Can I use different stuffing ingredients for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, nuts, or dried fruits based on your tastes. Just ensure they complement the flavor of the hens.

How long do I need to cook Stuffed Cornish Game Hens?

The cooking time typically ranges from 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C), but check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.

Are Stuffed Cornish Game Hens suitable for special occasions?

Yes! These hens are elegant and flavorful, making them an excellent choice for holidays, dinner parties, or any celebration where you want to impress your guests.

Can I prepare Stuffed Cornish Game Hens ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble them earlier in the day or even freeze them for later. Just follow proper storage guidelines to maintain their taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll enjoy making these delightful Stuffed Cornish Game Hens as much as I do! They bring a touch of elegance and comfort that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a lovely dinner at home, these hens are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and laughter!