Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only delicious but also impressively beautiful, you’ve come to the right place! Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are a favorite of mine because they bring such elegance to any table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, these little birds make every occasion feel special. Plus, the savory stuffing is bursting with flavor, making each bite a delightful experience!

What I love most about this recipe is how it balances simplicity and sophistication. You can whip it up on busy weeknights or take your time preparing it for that perfect Sunday dinner. Trust me; your loved ones will be raving about this dish long after the last bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps, you’ll have an impressive meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The mild taste of Cornish game hens is loved by kids and adults alike, making it a hit for everyone at the table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep everything in advance, so when it’s time to eat, all you need to do is pop them in the oven.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of herbs and savory stuffing creates an explosion of taste that complements the tender meat perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful Stuffed Cornish Game Hens, you’ll need simple and wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll gather:

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 get creative with your stuffing or seasoning. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using stuffed chicken breasts or even a whole roasted chicken if you can’t find Cornish game hens.
• Add different veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or mushrooms into your stuffing for added flavor and texture.
• Experiment with nuts: Swap out pecans or walnuts for almonds or pistachios for a unique crunch.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs to accommodate dietary preferences while still enjoying all the flavors.

How to Make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Step 1: Prepare the Hens

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse your Cornish game hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a crispy skin when roasting. Season both inside and out with salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and paprika. This seasoning blend will infuse each hen with wonderful flavors as they cook.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, sauté onions until they become translucent—this brings out their natural sweetness! Next, toss in the celery and carrots; cook until softened. Stir in your bread crumbs, raisins (if using), nuts (if using), parsley, chicken broth, and melted butter. Mix everything well! This stuffing will elevate the dish by adding moisture and depth of flavor.

Step 3: Stuff the Hens

Carefully spoon the prepared stuffing into each hen’s cavity until full but not overstuffed. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine if desired; this helps maintain their shape while cooking. Arrange them in a roasting pan and drizzle with white grape juice or apple juice for basting—this adds both moisture and sweetness!

Step 4: Roast Them Perfectly

Place your roasting pan in the preheated oven and cook for about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Baste them halfway through cooking with any drippings from the pan. This keeps them moist and enhances their flavor! They’re done when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove from oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This rest period allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat making each bite tender and juicy. Serve your stunning stuffed Cornish game hens alongside your favorite sides for an unforgettable meal!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few pro tips up your sleeve!

• Choose the right birds: Look for Cornish game hens that are plump and well-fleshed. This ensures tender meat and ample space for stuffing, making your dish truly satisfying.
• Let the stuffing cool: Before filling the hens, allow your stuffing to cool slightly. This helps the flavors meld and prevents the birds from cooking unevenly.
• Use a meat thermometer: To guarantee perfectly cooked hens, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Baste regularly: Basting with white grape juice or apple juice during cooking not only keeps the meat moist but also adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
• Rest before serving: After removing the hens from the oven, let them rest for about 10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.

How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Serving Stuffed Cornish Game Hens is all about presentation and complementing the flavors already in play. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Citrus slices: Adding lemon or orange slices around the hens not only looks appealing but also offers a zesty contrast to the savory flavors.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil makes for a colorful and nutritious side.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed hens while adding some texture.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and pair beautifully with the savory stuffing of your game hens.
• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt bring a refreshing crunch that balances out the meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Stuffed Cornish Game Hens will not only taste incredible but also look stunning on your dining table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are not only a delight to serve fresh but also excellent for meal prep. You can prepare these elegant birds ahead of time, making them a convenient choice for busy days or special gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the hens to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftover stuffed hens in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled stuffed hens tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen Cornish game hens overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the hens in a baking dish and cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Heat for about 25-30 minutes or until warmed through, checking that internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Stuffed Cornish Game Hens that might help you as you prepare this delicious dish.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the stuffing based on your preferences. You can add different nuts, herbs, or even spices that you enjoy. Just ensure that any replacements still complement the flavor of the cornish hens.

How do I know when my Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are fully cooked?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked. Additionally, juices should run clear, not pink.

Can Stuffed Cornish Game Hens be made without bread crumbs?

Yes! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option or want to avoid bread crumbs, you can use quinoa, rice, or even finely chopped vegetables as a substitute for stuffing.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens inspires you to create something truly special at home. These tender birds filled with flavorful stuffing are sure to impress your guests and bring joy to your dining table. Enjoy every moment of preparing and sharing this delightful dish with family and friends. Happy cooking!