Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

If you’re looking for a dish that brings a touch of elegance to your dining table without requiring hours in the kitchen, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! Stuffed Cornish Game Hens have become a cherished favorite in my household. They not only look stunning but also deliver an incredible punch of flavor with every bite. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these little birds make any meal feel special.

What I love most about this recipe is how approachable it is. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to impress your guests; just follow the steps and let the delicious aroma fill your kitchen as they roast. Plus, the savory stuffing makes them irresistible and satisfying, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have these hens ready for the oven in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves tender, flavorful meat and delicious stuffing—perfect for both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare your stuffing in advance, so when it’s time to cook, all you need to do is stuff and roast!
• Stunning presentation: These hens look gorgeous on any table, making them perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For these Stuffed Cornish Game Hens, you’ll use simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s 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

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to customize it according to your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Change up the protein: If Cornish game hens aren’t available, consider using small chickens or even stuffed bell peppers for a vegetarian twist.
• Add seasonal veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into your stuffing for added nutrition and flavor.
• Experiment with nuts: Swap out pecans or walnuts for almonds or pine nuts if you prefer their flavor.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the stuffing if you’re in the mood for some heat!

How to Make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Hens

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, rinse your Cornish game hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures crispy skin while roasting.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

In a large bowl, combine your bread crumbs, chopped onion, celery, carrots, optional raisins or cranberries, optional nuts, parsley, chicken broth, and melted butter. Season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined—the moisture from the broth and butter will bring all those flavors together beautifully.

Step 3: Stuff the Hens

Carefully spoon the stuffing mixture into each hen’s cavity. Don’t overstuff; you want them to cook evenly! Secure openings with toothpicks if necessary. Drizzle olive oil over each hen and season with garlic powder, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Roast in the Oven

Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan breast side up. Baste them with white grape juice or apple juice before placing them in the oven. This will help keep them moist while adding a subtle sweetness.

Step 5: Bake Until Juicy and Golden

Roast for about 1 hour and 10 minutes or until an internal thermometer reads 165°F (75°C). Baste once more halfway through cooking for extra flavor. Once done, let them rest for a few minutes before serving—this allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Stuffed Cornish Game Hens! Serve them warm alongside your favorite sides and watch as everyone gathers around the table eager for seconds.

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Making stuffed Cornish game hens can be a delightful experience if you keep a few handy tips in mind. These will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the Right Size Hens: Look for Cornish game hens that are between 1.5 to 2 pounds each. This size is ideal for even cooking and ensures that the stuffing has enough room without overcrowding.

• Let Them Rest: After roasting, let the hens rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.

• Flavor the Inside: Don’t forget to season the cavity of the hens with salt and pepper. This small step infuses more flavor into the meat while it cooks.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

• Experiment with Stuffing Ingredients: Feel free to customize your stuffing with seasonal vegetables or herbs to make it unique. Adding flavors like citrus zest or spices can really elevate your dish!

How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Presenting stuffed Cornish game hens can turn any dinner table into a celebration! Here are some great ideas on how to serve this exquisite dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme over the hens just before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Lemon wedges: Adding lemon wedges not only looks beautiful but also provides a refreshing touch when squeezed over the warm meat.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers, roasted to perfection pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the hens.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes offer comfort and balance out the savory stuffing while soaking up those delicious juices.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast and is perfect for health-conscious diners.
• Cranberry Sauce: A homemade cranberry sauce or chutney adds a sweet-tart element that complements the savory notes of the stuffed game hens beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your stuffed Cornish game hens will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on your dining table! Enjoy this delightful meal with family and friends for any special occasion or simply as an indulgent treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are not only a delightful dish for special occasions but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare and store them for future meals, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed hens to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 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 2-3 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen hens in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place hens in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 25-30 minutes or until warmed through. You can baste with additional juice or broth for extra moisture.

FAQs

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

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 fruits. Just ensure that all ingredients are suited to your dietary preferences.

How long do I need to cook Stuffed Cornish Game Hens?

Typically, you will need to cook them for about 1 hour and 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving!

Can I make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions above.

What is the best way to serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens?

Serve them on a beautiful platter with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. This will create an impressive presentation that’s perfect for any occasion!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Stuffed Cornish Game Hens as much as I do! They truly embody comfort and elegance, making any meal feel special. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy every delicious bite!