Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

If you’re looking for a dish that impresses without causing stress, Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are a perfect choice! These delightful little birds are not only festive but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe shines on any table. The juicy meat, paired with savory stuffing, makes every bite something special. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or fancy celebrations alike. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake is simply irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a gourmet meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the tender meat and flavorful stuffing—it’s a hit at every gathering!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the hens in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of spices and stuffing creates an unforgettable taste that makes these hens truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create Stuffed Cornish Game Hens. You’ll find that everything you need is simple and accessible.

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your stuffing or seasoning based on what you have available.

• Change the Nuts: Swap out pecans for almonds or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
• Add More Veggies: Mix in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: Add some chili flakes or fresh herbs for a kick of heat if you enjoy bold flavors.
• Use Different Fruits: Instead of raisins or cranberries, try chopped apples or pears for a sweet twist.

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 color.

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing

In a large bowl, combine the bread crumbs, onion, celery, carrots, raisins (if using), nuts (if using), parsley, chicken broth, and melted butter. Mix everything together until well combined. This stuffing is where all the magic happens—it adds flavor and moisture to the hens.

Step 3: Season the Hens

Rub each Cornish game hen with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and paprika on all sides. This step helps build layers of flavor in the meat itself.

Step 4: Stuff the Hens

Carefully fill each hen with the prepared stuffing. Don’t overstuff them; leave some space for air to circulate during cooking. This ensures they stay juicy while allowing the stuffing to brown nicely.

Step 5: Roast in the Oven

Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan. Drizzle them with white grape juice or apple juice for basting during cooking. Roast in your preheated oven for about 1 hour and 10 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Basting every 20 minutes keeps them moist and adds extra flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked through, let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Serve these lovely stuffed Cornish game hens with your favorite sides—your family will love this hearty meal!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Making stuffed Cornish game hens can be a delightful experience, and a few insider tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh herbs and vegetables enhances the overall flavor of your stuffing and ensures that each bite bursts with freshness.

• Brine the hens: If you have time, brining the hens in a simple saltwater solution for a few hours can help keep the meat juicy and tender during cooking.

• Don’t overstuff: While it might be tempting to pack in a lot of stuffing, leaving some space allows for even cooking and ensures that the stuffing becomes delightfully crispy on top.

• Baste regularly: Basting your hens with white grape or apple juice during roasting helps maintain moisture and adds a subtle sweetness to the skin, resulting in a beautifully golden finish.

• Let them rest: After roasting, allow the hens to rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving. This helps redistribute the juices throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.

How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Presenting your stuffed Cornish game hens can be as special as preparing them. A beautiful presentation can impress guests and enhance their dining experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme over the roasted hens just before serving for a pop of color and an aromatic touch.

• Citrus wedges: Serve with lemon or orange wedges on the side; they add brightness and a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make an excellent bed for your hens, soaking up all those delicious juices.

• Roasted seasonal vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes not only adds color but also provides a lovely sweetness that complements the savory stuffing perfectly.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch to balance out the rich flavors of the hens.

• Green beans almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds give a satisfying crunch while adding elegance to your meal.

Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy dinner at home, these stuffed Cornish game hens are sure to impress! Enjoy every moment of creating—and savoring—this delightful dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are not just a delightful main course; they also make for fantastic meal prep! You can easily prepare them in advance, making them perfect for a busy week or for hosting guests.

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

• Wrap each stuffed hen tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped hens in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen hens in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place hens in a baking dish, cover with foil, and reheat for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use any stuffing for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens?

Yes! Feel free to get creative with your stuffing. You can use different types of bread, add mushrooms, or even include spices that you love.

How long do I cook Stuffed Cornish Game Hens?

You should cook Stuffed Cornish Game Hens for about 1 hour and 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Always ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Can I make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them up to a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge before baking or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Stuffed Cornish Game Hens as much as I do! They are not only delicious but also bring a touch of elegance to any meal. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with joy and wonderful aromas!