Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

If you’re looking for a dish that impresses without the stress, Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are just what you need! These charming little birds are not only beautiful on the table but also bursting with flavor. What makes this recipe even more special is how versatile it is. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these hens will delight everyone at the table.

I love how easy they are to prepare. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels luxurious and comforting at the same time. Plus, the savory stuffing complements the tender meat perfectly, making each bite a true delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: The elegant appearance of Stuffed Cornish Game Hens makes them perfect for special occasions.
• Flavorful Stuffing: A delicious blend of herbs and veggies enhances the natural taste of the hens.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll feel like a chef in your own kitchen!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the stuffing in advance and stuff the hens when you’re ready to cook.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this tasty dish, making it a winner for any dinner table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for these delightful stuffed Cornish game hens. You’ll find everything you need to create a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

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 customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the nuts: Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of pecans or walnuts for a different crunch.
• Change up the fruit: Try using diced apples or pears instead of raisins or cranberries for a refreshing twist.
• Add spices: Experiment with spices like cumin or coriander in your stuffing for an extra flavor kick.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and add more veggies to keep it hearty.

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 will cook evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning

In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and paprika. This seasoning blend will enhance the flavor of your hens and create a lovely crispy skin as they roast.

Step 3: Season the Hens

Rub the seasoning mixture all over each Cornish game hen. Make sure to get under the skin too! This step is essential because it infuses every part of the bird with incredible flavor.

Step 4: Make the Stuffing

In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs with onion, celery, carrots, optional raisins or cranberries, optional nuts, parsley, chicken broth, and melted butter. Mix everything until well combined. The stuffing should be moist but not soggy—this adds texture inside each hen.

Step 5: Stuff the Hens

Carefully stuff each hen with your savory mixture. Don’t overfill; leave some room for expansion during cooking. Secure openings with kitchen twine if necessary.

Step 6: Roast Them Up

Place your stuffed hens in a roasting pan and baste them with white grape juice (or apple juice). Roast in your preheated oven for about 1 hour and 10 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Basting helps keep them juicy and adds extra flavor!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked through and beautifully browned, remove from oven. Let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This makes sure all those delicious juices stay locked inside! Serve alongside your favorite sides for a truly memorable meal.

There you have it! I hope you enjoy making these Stuffed Cornish Game Hens as much as I do! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Making stuffed Cornish game hens can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure they turn out beautifully every time!

• Thaw Thoroughly: Make sure your Cornish game hens are completely thawed before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps prevent any parts from being undercooked.

• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Rub olive oil and spices all over the hens, including inside the cavity. This enhances the flavor of the meat and makes each bite irresistible.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs and vegetables in your stuffing. Fresh ingredients provide a vibrant flavor and aroma that dried versions can’t match.

• Baste Occasionally: Basting the hens with white grape or apple juice during roasting keeps them moist and adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory stuffing perfectly.

• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the hens to rest for about 10 minutes before cutting into them. This helps retain their juices, making for juicy, tender meat.

How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Presenting your stuffed Cornish game hens can elevate your dining experience, turning an already impressive dish into an unforgettable feast! Here are some ideas on how to serve them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or thyme over the hens just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
• Citrus Slices: Add thin slices of lemon or orange around the plate. Not only do they look beautiful, but they also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers roasted until caramelized pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the hens.

• Quinoa Salad: Lightly seasoned quinoa mixed with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil offers a refreshing side that complements the richness of the stuffed hens.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs perfectly with poultry dishes.

• Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with slivered almonds create a crunchy texture that nicely balances the softness of the stuffed game hens.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re well on your way to creating an impressive meal that will surely delight your guests! Enjoy your culinary journey!

Make Ahead and Storage

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are not only a delight to serve fresh, but they also make for excellent meal prep! Preparing them in advance can save you time on busy days while still providing a delicious, home-cooked meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed hens to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing

• Wrap each hen tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped hens in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

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

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your stuffing. You could add cooked quinoa, wild rice, or even different vegetables based on what you enjoy or have on hand.

How long does it take to cook Stuffed Cornish Game Hens?

The cooking time is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C), depending on the size of the hens. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Can I prepare Stuffed Cornish Game Hens ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them a day in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes serving them easier on special occasions!

What side dishes pair well with Stuffed Cornish Game Hens?

Great options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. These sides complement the rich flavors of the hens beautifully.

Are there any alternatives to chicken broth for the stuffing?

Yes! Vegetable broth works wonderfully as an alternative and will keep your dish vegetarian-friendly while still adding depth of flavor.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you find joy in making these Stuffed Cornish Game Hens! They’re perfect for any occasion where you want to impress your family and friends with something truly special without too much fuss. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I would love to hear how they turned out for you!