Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

If you’re looking for a dish that impresses without the stress, then Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are just what you need. These little birds are not only adorable but also packed with flavor, making them perfect for everything from family gatherings to cozy weeknights when you want something special. I love how they can turn an ordinary dinner into a festive occasion, and the stuffing adds an extra layer of deliciousness that makes each bite memorable.

This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it combines simplicity with elegance. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself and your loved ones, these stuffed hens will surely become a go-to in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of simple steps, you’ll have a stunning dish that looks like it took hours to make.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this flavorful meal, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the stuffing ahead of time, saving you precious minutes on busy nights.
• Delicious Flavor: The savory stuffing complements the tender meat perfectly, creating a delightful balance in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for making these Stuffed Cornish Game Hens shine. Luckily, these are simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry or fridge! Let’s take a look at 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 this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some mushrooms or bell peppers to the stuffing for added flavor and nutrition.
• Change Up the Nuts: Swap out pecans or walnuts for slivered almonds or sunflower seeds if you’re looking for something different.
• Herb It Up: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage to give your stuffing a unique twist.
• Make It Spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to kick up the heat!

How to Make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Step 1: Prepare the Hens

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, rinse the Cornish game hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is key because removing excess moisture allows for crispy skin later on! Season both inside and out with salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and paprika.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

In a large bowl, combine the bread crumbs with finely chopped onion, celery, carrots, raisins (if using), nuts (if using), fresh parsley, chicken broth, and melted butter. Mix everything well until the bread crumbs are moistened. This stuffing is where all those flavors come together, so don’t rush this part!

Step 3: Stuff the Hens

Gently stuff each Cornish game hen with the prepared mixture. Don’t overstuff; you want them snug but not bursting! Secure openings with toothpicks if needed. This helps keep all those delightful flavors inside as they cook.

Step 4: Bake Them Up

Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan and drizzle them with olive oil. Cover loosely with foil to keep moisture in during baking. Roast in your preheated oven for about 50 minutes. Then remove the foil and baste with white grape juice or apple juice every 15 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This basting not only adds flavor but also helps achieve that lovely golden color!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute within the meat—resulting in even more tender bites! Plate them up alongside your favorite sides and enjoy every mouthwatering moment of these Stuffed Cornish Game Hens!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Creating the perfect stuffed Cornish game hens is all about the details, and I’m here to share some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out spectacular!

• Choose the right hens: Selecting fresh, high-quality Cornish game hens ensures a tender texture and rich flavor. Look for ones that are plump and have a good amount of fat for moisture during cooking.

• Don’t skip the brining: For juicy meat, consider brining your game hens in a simple saltwater solution for a few hours before cooking. This step enhances the flavor and keeps the meat moist throughout the roasting process.

• Stuff generously but avoid overstuffing: Fill the cavity of each hen with stuffing to add flavor from within, but don’t cram it too tightly. This allows for even cooking and prevents any stuffing from falling out during roasting.

• Baste regularly: Basting your hens with white grape juice or apple juice every 20 minutes will help to create a beautifully caramelized skin while keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

• Let them rest before serving: Allowing your stuffed Cornish game hens to rest for about 10-15 minutes after roasting will let the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in an incredibly succulent bite.

How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Presenting stuffed Cornish game hens can be as delightful as preparing them! With a little creativity, you can transform this dish into a stunning centerpiece for any table.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.
• Citrus slices: Adding lemon or orange slices around the serving platter not only brightens up the presentation but also offers an aromatic touch that complements the flavors of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted in olive oil adds both color and nutrients to your meal.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic are a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the savory stuffing of the hens.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffed game hens.
• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic provide not only vibrant color but also a crunchy texture that balances out your plate beautifully.

With these ideas in mind, you’re ready to serve up an unforgettable meal that will impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Stuffed Cornish Game Hens recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time for a special occasion or busy weeknights, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Wrap each hen individually 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 in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place 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 about making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens!

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

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

How do I know when my Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are fully cooked?

The hens are done when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check at the thickest part of the meat to ensure it’s safe to eat.

Can I prepare Stuffed Cornish Game Hens in advance?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions provided above for best results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Stuffed Cornish Game Hens as much as I do! They add a touch of elegance to any meal while being surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe will surely impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to try it out and make it your own—I can’t wait for you to experience how delicious they turn out!