Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both impressive and comforting, let me introduce you to my favorite recipe for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens. These adorable little birds pack a punch of flavor and elegance, making them perfect for special occasions or just a cozy family dinner. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight meal, Stuffed Cornish Game Hens create an unforgettable experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt the stuffing to include your favorite ingredients, and the whole process feels like a joyous celebration in the kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a stunning meal ready to impress.
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavor of Cornish game hens appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the stuffing in advance, saving time on busy days.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of herbs and spices brings out the natural taste of the meat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s an intimate dinner or a festive gathering, these hens are sure to shine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is part of the fun! With simple, wholesome items, you’ll create something truly special. 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
• 1/4 cup white grape juice or apple juice (for basting)

Variations

One of the best things about Stuffed Cornish Game Hens is their flexibility! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: If you’d like to try something different, you can use small chickens or even poussin.
• Change up the stuffing: Experiment with quinoa or rice instead of bread crumbs for a gluten-free option.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
• Herb it up: Change the herbs based on your preference; rosemary or sage would be fantastic additions.

How to Make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your hens cook evenly and develop that beautiful golden-brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Hens

Rinse each hen under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and paprika. This seasoning creates a flavorful crust that enhances every bite.

Step 3: Make the Stuffing

In a large mixing bowl, combine bread crumbs with onion, celery, carrots, raisins (if using), nuts (if using), parsley, chicken broth, and melted butter. Mix well until everything is evenly coated. This savory stuffing is what makes these hens so delightful!

Step 4: Stuff the Hens

Carefully stuff each hen with the prepared mixture. Pack it lightly but don’t overstuff them; they need room to expand as they cook. Place any remaining stuffing in a baking dish alongside the hens.

Step 5: Bake Them Up

Transfer your stuffed hens to a roasting pan. Pour white grape juice or apple juice over them for basting during cooking. Bake for about 70 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Basting every 20 minutes helps keep them moist and flavorful.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once cooked through, remove from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat—making each bite juicy and tender!

Enjoy this wonderful dish with your loved ones; I promise it will become a cherished favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Creating the perfect stuffed Cornish game hens can be a delightful experience with just a few helpful tips!

• Choose quality hens: Opt for fresh, high-quality Cornish game hens for the best flavor and tenderness. Better ingredients lead to a more delicious final dish.

• Let them marinate: Season your hens with olive oil, salt, pepper, and spices before cooking. Allowing them to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors throughout the meat.

• Stuff generously but don’t overfill: Fill the cavity of the hens with stuffing but ensure there’s some space left. This allows for even cooking and prevents the stuffing from overflowing during roasting.

• Baste regularly: Use white grape juice or apple juice to baste your hens every 20 minutes while they cook. This keeps the meat juicy and adds a lovely glaze to the skin.

• Rest before serving: After cooking, let your hens rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.

How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Presenting your stuffed Cornish game hens beautifully can elevate any dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to showcase this exquisite dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme over the stuffed hens just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Citrus slices: Add lemon or orange wedges around the plate. The bright citrus not only looks appealing but also offers a refreshing contrast in flavor.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted until caramelized brings both flavor and nutrition to your plate.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a rich side that perfectly complements the savory stuffing of the game hens.

• Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds offer a crunchy texture and an elegant touch to your meal.

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette provides a healthy balance alongside your hearty main course.

Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that not only tastes amazing but also brings warmth and joy to your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are not only a delightful dish to serve fresh but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them ahead of time, making your special occasions even more enjoyable without the last-minute rush.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stuffed hens in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze the cooked Cornish game hens.
• Wrap each hen tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in freezer bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw the hens overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the hens in a baking dish.
• Cover with foil to retain moisture and heat for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about our delicious Stuffed Cornish Game Hens.

Can I use other types of meat for stuffing?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on Cornish game hens, you can adapt the stuffing ingredients to pair with chicken breasts or other poultry options as well.

How long do Stuffed Cornish Game Hens take to cook?

These flavorful stuffed game hens typically take about 1 hour and 10 minutes to cook at 375°F (190°C), ensuring they’re juicy and perfectly done.

Can I make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the stuffed hens a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just pop them into the oven when you’re ready!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Stuffed Cornish Game Hens as much as I do! This recipe is not just about food; it’s about creating beautiful memories around the dinner table with your loved ones. Enjoy every moment of cooking, savoring, and sharing this delightful dish. Can’t wait for you to try it!