Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

If you’re looking for a dish that impresses yet feels cozy and familiar, look no further than Stuffed Cornish Game Hens. This recipe has been a cherished favorite in our home for years, and I’m excited to share it with you. These delightful little birds are not only packed with flavor but also bring a touch of elegance to any gathering. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family celebration, this dish is sure to make your meal feel extraordinary.

What makes Stuffed Cornish Game Hens truly special is how versatile they can be. The stuffing is savory and satisfying, complementing the tender meat perfectly. Plus, the preparation is straightforward enough that you won’t feel overwhelmed. So gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this beautiful feast together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have an impressive dish ready for dinner.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The mild flavor of the game hens is perfect for even the pickiest eaters at the table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the hens and stuffing earlier in the day, making mealtime stress-free.
• Delicious Flavor: Each bite bursts with rich flavors from both the meat and stuffing, leaving everyone craving more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple and wholesome ingredients that come together to create this delightful dish. You might already have many of these in your pantry!

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 this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If Cornish game hens aren’t available, you can use small whole chickens or even turkey breasts.
• Change up the stuffing: Try adding different nuts or dried fruits like apricots for a unique twist.
• Add veggies: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers into your stuffing mix for extra flavor.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or cayenne to give your dish an exciting kick!

How to Make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A hot oven helps create that beautiful golden-brown skin on your game hens while keeping them juicy inside.

Step 2: Season the Hens

Rub each hen with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and paprika. This step ensures that every bite is flavorful and aromatic. Don’t skimp on seasoning; it really enhances the taste!

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 well until everything is combined. This savory mixture will fill your hens and add moisture as they cook.

Step 4: Stuff the Hens

Carefully stuff each hen with your prepared filling. Don’t overstuff them; just pack it in gently so there’s room for hot air to circulate during cooking.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place stuffed game hens in a roasting pan and pour white grape juice or apple juice over them for basting. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 10 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Basting keeps them moist while developing crispy skin.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Once cooked through, let your stuffed Cornish game hens rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat—resulting in even more deliciousness!

Enjoy sharing this special recipe with your family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Creating the perfect Stuffed Cornish Game Hens is easier than you might think—just follow these helpful tips!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh herbs and vegetables enhances the overall flavor of your dish, making each bite more vibrant and delicious.

• Don’t overstuff: While it’s tempting to pack in as much stuffing as possible, leaving a little space allows for even cooking and helps prevent the hens from bursting during roasting.

• Baste regularly: Basting with white grape or apple juice keeps the meat moist and adds a touch of sweetness, ensuring that your game hens are succulent and tender.

• Let them rest: Allowing the stuffed hens to rest for about 10 minutes after cooking redistributes the juices throughout the meat, resulting in more flavorful servings.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to swap out herbs or add spices to your stuffing. This dish is versatile, so try different combinations to find your favorite!

How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Presentation can elevate your dining experience, turning a simple meal into something truly fabulous. Here are some ideas on how to serve your beautifully stuffed game hens.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
• Lemon wedges: Serving with lemon wedges not only looks great but also provides a zesty kick that complements the rich flavors of the hens.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted until tender adds both nutrition and visual appeal.

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette makes for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffed hens.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort food vibes that pair beautifully with savory poultry dishes.

• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a lovely crunch and bright color that balance out the meal while adding essential nutrients.

With these serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress your guests and make any occasion special! Enjoy your culinary adventure with Stuffed Cornish Game Hens!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are not only a delightful dish for special occasions but also fantastic for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store leftovers, or even freeze them for a later date. Here’s how to keep your delicious creation fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed Cornish game hens to cool completely before storing.
• Place the 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.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label with the date!

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, until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about preparing Stuffed Cornish Game Hens, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that might help.

Can I use other ingredients for stuffing my Cornish game hens?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your stuffing. You can use different vegetables, grains like quinoa or rice, or even swap out nuts based on your preferences.

How long do Stuffed Cornish Game Hens take to cook?

Typically, these little birds need about 1 hour and 10 minutes to cook properly. Always check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Can I prepare Stuffed Cornish Game Hens in advance?

Yes! These hens are perfect for meal prep. You can stuff and season them ahead of time, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What sides pair well with Stuffed Cornish Game Hens?

Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. They also pair wonderfully with cranberry sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this recipe for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens as delightful as I do! The combination of tender meat and flavorful stuffing makes it a truly memorable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making this recipe and sharing it with loved ones; I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Happy cooking!