Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are a delightful dish that can transform any meal into a special occasion. If you’re looking for something that not only impresses but also tastes divine, then you’ve come to the right place! This recipe has become one of my favorites over the years because it combines elegance with simplicity. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these tender little hens filled with savory stuffing are sure to win hearts at the dinner table.

I love how versatile this dish is too! The stuffed Cornish game hens can be dressed up for holidays or served casually on a weeknight. Their charming size makes them perfect for individual servings, and the flavors meld together beautifully, creating an unforgettable dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up an impressive meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the tender meat and delicious stuffing—it’s perfect for both kids and adults!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the stuffing ahead of time and stuff the hens when you’re ready to cook.
• Impressive Presentation: These little game hens look stunning on the plate, making your dinner feel like a gourmet feast.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices enhances the natural taste of the meat, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens is part of the fun! You’ll find that these wholesome ingredients are simple yet create a beautiful flavor profile. 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

One of the best things about Stuffed Cornish Game Hens is how flexible they can be! Feel free to get creative with your stuffing and flavors. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Consider using chicken thighs or quails if you can’t find Cornish game hens.
• Add different nuts: Try using almonds or pistachios instead of pecans or walnuts for a unique crunch.
• Change up the fruit: Dried apricots or figs could add a lovely sweetness to your stuffing.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like rosemary for an extra kick!

How to Make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Hens

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, pat your Cornish game hens dry with paper towels. This helps achieve crispy skin later! Next, rub them with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and paprika—this seasoning will give them fantastic flavor.

Step 2: Make the Delicious Stuffing

In a large skillet, sauté onions, celery, and carrots until they soften—about 5 minutes. Stir in your bread crumbs along with raisins (if using), nuts (if using), parsley, chicken broth, and melted butter. Mix everything until well combined; this mixture is what will make each bite so satisfying!

Step 3: Stuffing Time!

Carefully stuff each hen with your prepared mixture. Don’t overfill them; leave some room for steam to circulate while they cook. Secure the openings with toothpicks if needed to keep all that delicious stuffing inside.

Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Cooked

Place your stuffed Cornish game hens in a roasting pan. Pour white grape juice or apple juice around them for basting during cooking. Bake in your preheated oven for about 1 hour and 10 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baste them halfway through cooking to keep them moist.

Step 5: Let Them Rest

Once done baking, let your stuffed Cornish game hens rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat—making it even more flavorful!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this extraordinary dish that’s sure to impress anyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Creating the perfect stuffed Cornish game hens is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve delicious results every time!

• Choose Quality Hens: Selecting fresh or high-quality Cornish game hens will enhance the flavor and tenderness of your dish. Look for hens that are plump and have a good amount of meat on them.

• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! A good rub of olive oil, salt, pepper, and spices on both the outside and inside of the hens ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor.

• Stuff Wisely: Make sure not to overstuff the hens; they need room to cook evenly. A lightly packed stuffing allows for even heat distribution, ensuring both the stuffing and meat are cooked perfectly.

• Monitor Cooking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your game hens as they cook. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.

• Let Them Rest: Allowing the stuffed Cornish game hens to rest for about 10 minutes after cooking helps retain their juices. This simple step makes for a more succulent final dish.

How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Serving stuffed Cornish game hens can be an art in itself! With just a few thoughtful touches, you can make this elegant dish shine on your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness to each plate.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside enhances the flavor profile with a zesty brightness that complements the savory stuffing beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings both flavor and nutrition to the table. Think carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted in olive oil and herbs.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic pair wonderfully with the rich flavors of the stuffed hens. They provide a comforting element that everyone loves.

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances out the richness of the dish.

• Steamed Green Beans: Freshly steamed green beans tossed with a touch of olive oil and sea salt offer a crisp texture and vibrant color that brightens up your plate while adding essential nutrients.

Make Ahead and Storage

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are not only a delightful dish for special occasions, but they also work wonderfully for meal prep. You can prepare them in advance and store them for later enjoyment, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

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.
• Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Cool the stuffed hens completely first.
• Wrap each hen tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped hens in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffed hens overnight in the refrigerator.
• Preheat the 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.
• For a crispy skin, uncover during the last 10 minutes of reheating.

FAQs

Have questions about making Stuffed Cornish Game Hens? Here are some answers!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your stuffing. You can substitute bread crumbs with quinoa or rice and add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. Just ensure that everything is cooked through before stuffing.

How do I know when my Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are done cooking?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the hen; it should read at least 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear when pierced.

Can I make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them fully and then refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to cook. Check out our storage tips above for more details!

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you enjoy making these Stuffed Cornish Game Hens as much as I do! They’re perfect for creating beautiful memories around the dinner table with family and friends. Remember, cooking is all about love, creativity, and sharing joy—so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!