Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

If you’re looking for a dish that brings both elegance and comfort to your table, then Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are just the ticket! These delightful little birds are not only visually impressive but also packed with flavor. They make any meal feel special, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends. I love making these hens when I want to impress my loved ones without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try them, they will become a go-to favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have these beautiful hens ready for roasting. Perfect for busy weeknights!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the tender meat and savory stuffing. It’s hard to resist!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: You can prepare the hens ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you need them. Great for gatherings!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of herbs and spices creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen and makes mealtime exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Each component adds its own unique touch to the dish, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

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

For Basting:

• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/4 cup white grape juice or apple juice (for basting)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans or walnuts, try using sliced almonds or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
• Try different fruits: Instead of raisins or cranberries, consider using diced apples or chopped apricots for a sweet twist.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the Cornish game hens with stuffed bell peppers or zucchini for a plant-based option that’s just as satisfying.

How to Make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing

Start by heating some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onions, celery, and carrots until they soften—about 5 minutes. This step is key as it enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to your stuffing. Once they’re fragrant and tender, mix in the bread crumbs, raisins (if using), nuts (if using), parsley, chicken broth, and melted butter. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 2: Season the Hens

Next up is seasoning those lovely game hens! Rub each hen with olive oil and season generously inside and out with salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and paprika. This step ensures that every bit of meat is infused with flavor.

Step 3: Stuff the Hens

Carefully fill each hen with your prepared stuffing mixture until they are nicely packed but not overflowing. It’s okay if some stuffing spills out while cooking; that just adds more delicious bits to enjoy later!

Step 4: Roast

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan and baste them with white grape juice or apple juice. This gives them a beautiful glaze as they cook! Roast them in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 10 minutes until their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste them halfway through cooking for extra moisture.

Step 5: Serve

Once done roasting, let your Stuffed Cornish Game Hens rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat making it even juicier! Serve warm with extra stuffing on the side if desired. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Creating the perfect Stuffed Cornish Game Hens can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor of your stuffing and the overall dish. Fresh ingredients pack more nutrients and create a brighter taste.

• Don’t rush the basting: Basting your hens with white grape juice or apple juice during cooking keeps them moist and adds an extra layer of flavor. This step ensures your game hens are succulent and delicious.

• Let them rest before serving: Allowing the stuffed Cornish game hens to rest for about 10 minutes after cooking helps retain their juices. This means that every bite will be tender and juicy, making for a perfect dining experience.

• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to customize your stuffing by adding different herbs or spices like rosemary, sage, or even a pinch of cinnamon. Personalizing the seasoning can bring new flavor profiles to this classic dish!

• Check doneness with a meat thermometer: To ensure food safety and perfect texture, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees that your hens are cooked through but not overdone.

How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Presentation is key when serving Stuffed Cornish Game Hens, as they are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas to help you impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or thyme on top adds color and freshness, making your dish pop visually.
• Lemon wedges: Placing lemon wedges on the side introduces a zesty contrast that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the richness of the hens.
• Roasted seasonal vegetables: Roasting carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini brings out their natural sweetness while offering a vibrant, colorful addition to your plate.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the stuffed game hens.
• Cranberry sauce: A tart cranberry sauce offers a lovely contrast to the savory stuffing; plus, it adds a festive touch that’s always appreciated!

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, you’re all set to create an impressive meal that will delight family and friends alike! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens make for an excellent meal prep option, perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. You can prepare them in advance and enjoy the delightful flavors without the last-minute rush.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the stuffed game hens cool fully.
• Wrap each hen tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 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, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Stuffed Cornish Game Hens.

Can I use other types of meat instead of Cornish game hens?

Yes! You can substitute with small chickens or game birds like quail, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

How do I ensure my Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are cooked thoroughly?

To ensure they’re fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the meat.

Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and stuff the hens just before cooking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this recipe for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens as delightful to make as it is to eat! This dish is not only flavorful but also brings a touch of elegance to your dining table. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, these little birds will surely impress your loved ones. Enjoy making this wonderful recipe, and remember: great meals are all about sharing moments with those you care about!