Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

If you’re looking for a dish that will impress your guests while being simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight, then you’ve come to the right place! Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are one of my absolute favorite recipes. They bring a touch of elegance to any table and are perfect for everything from family gatherings to cozy dinners at home. The juicy meat and flavorful stuffing create a delightful meal that everyone will love.

What makes this recipe really special is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re serving a small group or a crowd, these charming little hens can be the star of your dinner spread. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: Stuffed Cornish Game Hens look beautiful on the plate, making them perfect for special occasions.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tender meat and savory stuffing creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a gourmet meal ready without feeling overwhelmed.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this dish, making it great for family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the hens in advance and bake them just before serving for an effortless meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens is a breeze! These simple and wholesome items will help create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. 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 Stuffed Cornish Game Hens is how flexible they are! You can easily adjust the stuffing or even try different flavors. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the nuts: Use almonds or pine nuts instead of pecans or walnuts for a different crunch.
• Change up the fruits: Substitute raisins or dried cranberries with chopped apples or pears for added sweetness.
• Herb infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to elevate the stuffing’s flavor profile.
• Vegetable boost: Add other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to give your stuffing extra depth.

How to Make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Step 1: Prepare the Hens

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, rinse the Cornish game hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps ensure they roast beautifully and develop that golden-brown skin we all love.

Step 2: Seasoning

In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and paprika. Rub this mixture all over each hen—don’t forget inside the cavity! This step adds so much flavor to the meat as it cooks.

Step 3: Make the Stuffing

In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, onion, celery, carrots, raisins (if using), nuts (if using), parsley, chicken broth, and melted butter. Mix everything well until it’s nicely combined. This stuffing will bring moisture and flavor into the hens while they roast.

Step 4: Stuffing Time

Carefully spoon the stuffing into each hen’s cavity. Don’t pack it too tightly; you want some room for air to circulate while cooking. Place any leftover stuffing in a baking dish beside the hens—this will make a delicious side!

Step 5: Roast

Transfer the stuffed hens onto a roasting pan. Pour white grape juice or apple juice over them for added moisture during cooking. Roast in your preheated oven for about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Baste them occasionally with their juices to keep everything moist and flavorful.

Step 6: Serve

Once they’re cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C), let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps keep all those delicious juices inside! Plate up each hen with some of that glorious stuffing on the side—and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your stuffed Cornish game hens to a whole new level!

• Choose the right hens: Opt for fresh or properly thawed Cornish game hens for the best texture and flavor. Frozen birds may have a watery texture and less flavor if not thawed correctly.

• Season generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning your hens both inside and out. The seasoning enhances the flavor of the meat and ensures that every bite is bursting with taste.

• Let them rest: After roasting, let your hens rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

• Experiment with stuffing: Feel free to get creative with your stuffing! Adding seasonal veggies or different nuts can bring unique flavors that make each preparation special.

• Baste for moisture: Basting your game hens with white grape juice or apple juice during cooking helps keep them moist while adding a subtle sweetness that complements the savory stuffing.

How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Presenting your stuffed Cornish game hens beautifully is key to impressing your guests. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving style!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
• Citrus slices: Placing lemon or orange slices around the hens not only looks lovely but also adds a refreshing aroma as they roast.

Side Dishes

• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a classic pairing. Their smooth texture complements the tender meat perfectly.
• Roasted seasonal vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and zucchini tossed in olive oil brings vibrant colors and flavors to your plate.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a healthy crunch and balances the richness of the hens.
• Steamed green beans: Simple yet elegant, steamed green beans drizzled with a bit of olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt provide a crisp contrast to the meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience around your delicious stuffed Cornish game hens! Enjoy every moment at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are not only a delightful main dish for special occasions but also a fantastic choice for meal prep. You can prepare them ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Wrap each stuffed hen tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped hens in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen 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 prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your stuffing with your favorite vegetables, nuts, or dried fruits. Just ensure they complement the flavors of the hens.

How long do Stuffed Cornish Game Hens take to cook?

Cooking time may vary depending on your oven, but generally, they take about 1 hour and 10 minutes. It’s important to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Can I make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to a day in advance. Just assemble the hens and store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to create these exquisite Stuffed Cornish Game Hens! They are sure to impress your family and friends while bringing warmth and joy to your dining table. Enjoy every moment of this cooking adventure and don’t hesitate to share your results. Happy cooking!