Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Introduction

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are a showstopper of a dish that’s perfect for any special occasion or when you just want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something extraordinary. These tender little birds are full of flavor and elegance, offering a delightful alternative to more traditional roasts. The mild, succulent meat pairs beautifully with a savory stuffing that enhances its natural taste, making each bite an absolute treat.

I absolutely love making stuffed Cornish game hens when I’m hosting a gathering. They have this amazing ability to elevate the entire meal, turning a simple dinner into something memorable. I remember the first time I made them for a holiday dinner—my guests were in awe of how beautiful the hens looked on the table, and they couldn’t wait to dig in. The crispy golden skin on the outside is so inviting, and the moist, flavorful stuffing inside is just the perfect complement. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel fancy without all the stress.

The best part? Stuffed Cornish game hens are surprisingly easy to prepare, and the stuffing options are endless. Whether you go for a classic breadcrumb stuffing, a sausage and herb filling, or something more unique like a wild rice stuffing with dried fruits, the possibilities are vast. No matter what you choose, the outcome is a beautifully golden, juicy hen that will leave your guests impressed and satisfied. These hens also make an unforgettable centerpiece, setting the tone for a truly spectacular meal.

Perfect for:

• Holiday meals (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter)
• Special occasions (anniversaries, birthdays)
• Romantic dinners
• Family feasts
• Elegant weeknight meals

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Here’s why Stuffed Cornish Game Hens will become a go-to dish for your special occasions:

• Elegant Presentation: Cornish game hens make a stunning presentation when served whole, perfect for impressing guests at your dinner table.
• Perfectly Cooked Meat: The small size of the hens ensures that the meat is tender, juicy, and cooked to perfection with a deliciously crispy skin.
• Customizable Stuffing: You can easily tailor the stuffing to your preferences, whether you want something traditional with herbs and breadcrumbs or a more modern take with fruits and nuts.
• Easy to Prepare: Despite the impressive appearance, stuffed Cornish game hens are surprisingly easy to prepare, making them a great choice for both beginner and experienced cooks.
• Rich, Savory Flavor: The combination of stuffed filling and flavorful seasonings infuses the meat with rich, savory flavors that everyone will love.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 500-550 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 45g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 30g

Ingredients

For these Stuffed Cornish Game Hens, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 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
• 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 wine or apple juice (for basting)

Ingredient Highlights

• Cornish Game Hens: These small, tender birds are ideal for individual servings and cook more quickly than traditional roasting chickens, making them perfect for special meals.
• Bread Crumbs: The base of the stuffing, bread crumbs soak up the juices and add texture, while also allowing the other flavors to shine through.
• Raisins/Dried Cranberries: These sweet additions provide a delightful contrast to the savory elements of the stuffing, adding both texture and flavor.
• Pecans/Walnuts: Nuts bring a crunchy element that complements the tender meat and soft stuffing perfectly.
• White Wine or Apple Juice: Basting with white wine or apple juice helps keep the game hens moist and adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens:

Prepare the Stuffing:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Stuffing Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs, sautéed vegetables, raisins (or cranberries), chopped nuts, parsley, chicken broth, and melted butter. Mix well until the bread crumbs are evenly moistened.
3. Season the Stuffing: Add salt, pepper, and dried thyme to taste, stirring to combine. Adjust the seasonings as needed.

Prepare the Hens:

4. Season the Hens: Pat the Cornish game hens dry with paper towels. Rub them all over with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and paprika.
5. Stuff the Hens: Spoon the stuffing mixture into the cavity of each Cornish game hen, packing it tightly. If there is any leftover stuffing, you can either bake it separately in a small dish or discard it.

Roast the Hens:

6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Place the Hens in a Roasting Pan: Arrange the stuffed hens breast-side up in a roasting pan. Pour the white wine or apple juice into the bottom of the pan for basting.
8. Roast the Hens: Roast the hens in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. Baste the hens occasionally with the pan juices every 20-30 minutes to keep them moist.
9. Rest the Hens: Once cooked, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Here’s how to serve your Stuffed Cornish Game Hens:

• On a Bed of Greens: Serve the hens on a bed of fresh spinach, arugula, or mixed greens for a light contrast to the rich stuffing.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and Brussels sprouts to complement the savory flavors of the hens.
• With a Side of Gravy: Serve with a light gravy made from the pan drippings for an extra touch of richness.
• With Rice Pilaf or Couscous: A fragrant rice pilaf or couscous with herbs makes a wonderful side dish that absorbs the flavorful juices.
• For Special Occasions: Serve on elegant platters for a dinner party or holiday gathering, garnished with fresh herbs and citrus slices for added color.

Additional Tips for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

To ensure your Stuffed Cornish Game Hens turn out perfect every time, try these tips:

• Baste Regularly: Basting the hens every 20-30 minutes ensures they stay moist and flavorful.
• Stuff Just Before Roasting: Don’t stuff the hens too far in advance, as this can lead to soggy stuffing or uneven cooking.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the hens are cooked through without overcooking, check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
• Let the Hens Rest: Allowing the stuffed game hens to rest for 10 minutes after roasting helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat tender.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing in advance and refrigerate it overnight for convenience. Just stuff the hens and roast them on the day you plan to serve them.

Recipe Variations for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Here are 10 variations you can try for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens:

• Herb and Garlic Stuffing: Use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage, and add roasted garlic to the stuffing for a fragrant, savory version.
• Apple and Sausage Stuffing: Add diced apples and cooked sausage to the stuffing for a heartier, sweeter twist.
• Cranberry and Almond Stuffing: Swap out the raisins for dried cranberries and add sliced almonds for a nutty crunch.
• Mushroom and Spinach Stuffing: For a vegetarian variation, sauté mushrooms and spinach for a savory, earthy stuffing.
• Cornbread Stuffing: Use cornbread in place of bread crumbs for a Southern-inspired twist.
• Wild Rice Stuffing: Replace the bread crumbs with cooked wild rice for a more textured and earthy stuffing.
• Citrus-Glazed Hens: Brush the hens with a citrus glaze made from orange juice and honey for a sweet and tangy finish.
• Bacon and Leek Stuffing: Add crispy bacon and sautéed leeks to the stuffing for a smoky, savory flavor.
• Pine Nut and Parmesan Stuffing: For an Italian-inspired twist, add toasted pine nuts and Parmesan cheese to the stuffing.
• Pomegranate and Mint Stuffing: Add fresh mint leaves and pomegranate seeds to the stuffing for a refreshing, festive version.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Stuffed Cornish game hens can be frozen before cooking. Prepare and stuff the hens, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and roast as directed.
• Storage: Store any leftover stuffed hens in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly in the oven or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Stuffed Cornish Game Hens easier:

• Roasting Pan: A sturdy roasting pan ensures even cooking and allows space for basting the hens.
• Meat Thermometer: This is essential for checking the internal temperature and ensuring the hens are fully cooked.
• Basting Brush: Helps to evenly baste the hens with pan juices for moisture and flavor.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp chef’s knife is key for properly prepping the hens and vegetables.
• Cutting Board: A large, sturdy cutting board is essential for prepping the vegetables and stuffing.
• Sauté Pan: A good sauté pan for cooking the vegetables that will go into the stuffing.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: These will help you measure ingredients precisely for the stuffing and seasoning.
• Aluminum Foil: If you want to tent the hens during roasting to prevent over-browning, aluminum foil comes in handy.
• Food Processor: If you’re making your own breadcrumbs from bread, a food processor is an excellent tool.
• Serving Platters: Elegant platters are perfect for presenting the roasted Cornish game hens.

FAQ Section for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Here are some frequently asked questions about Stuffed Cornish Game Hens:

1. Can I use chicken instead of Cornish game hens?
   Yes, you can substitute whole chicken for Cornish game hens, but you may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the chicken.
2. Can I stuff the hens in advance?
   It’s best to stuff the hens just before roasting to ensure the stuffing doesn’t become soggy. You can prepare the stuffing ahead of time.
3. How do I know when the hens are done?
   The hens are done when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the juices run clear when pierced.
4. Can I make this dish without stuffing?
   Yes, you can roast the Cornish game hens without stuffing them. Baste with a bit of butter or olive oil for flavor and tenderness.
5. What can I serve with Cornish game hens?
   Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, and a green salad are all great side dishes to serve with stuffed Cornish game hens.

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Conclusion

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are a show-stopping dish that will make any meal feel like a special occasion. The combination of tender, flavorful meat and savory stuffing creates a harmonious balance of textures and tastes. Whether you choose a traditional stuffing of herbs and breadcrumbs or opt for something unique like a rice and cranberry blend, the possibilities are endless for customizing this dish.

Perfect for any celebration or simply when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones, these hens are both impressive and satisfying. The beautiful presentation of the stuffed birds on your table will make your guests feel like they’ve stepped into a gourmet restaurant. Plus, they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to creamy mashed potatoes.

Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday dinner or a weeknight treat, stuffed Cornish game hens will surely impress and satisfy. I can’t wait to see how your stuffed Cornish game hens turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your delicious creations! Happy cooking!