Stuffed Cornish Game Hens: 6 Steps to Culinary Bliss

septembre 11, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the sheer elegance of stuffed Cornish game hens! These little beauties are not just a meal; they’re a showstopper, perfect for special occasions like holiday dinners or intimate gatherings. I remember the first time I made them for Thanksgiving – the aroma filled the house, and my family was so impressed! The golden, crispy skin and the flavorful stuffing just melted everyone’s hearts. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to prepare! Trust me, once you put these on the table, your guests will think you’ve been slaving away in the kitchen for hours. But really, it’s all about the love you put into it!

stuffed cornish game hens - detail 1

Ingredients for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Gather these simple yet delightful ingredients to create your stuffed Cornish game hens. Each component adds a layer of flavor that makes this dish truly special!

2 Cornish game hens
1 cup cooked rice (make sure it’s fluffy and cooled)
1/2 cup diced celery (for that lovely crunch)
1/2 cup diced onion (sweet and aromatic)
1/2 cup dried cranberries (for a touch of sweetness)
1/4 cup chopped pecans (adds a nice nutty flavor)
2 tablespoons olive oil (to sauté those veggies)
1 teaspoon salt (to season to perfection)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for a hint of spice)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (for that earthy aroma)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better)
1/2 cup chicken broth (to keep it moist and flavorful)

That’s it! With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of preparing these fabulous stuffed Cornish game hens! It’s easier than you might think, and I promise the end result will be absolutely worth it.

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it helps achieve that beautiful, crispy skin on your hens. Trust me, no one wants soggy poultry!

Prepare the Filling

Next, let’s get that scrumptious filling ready! In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your diced celery and onion, sautéing them until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes. Oh, the smell is heavenly! Once they’re ready, take them off the heat and combine them in a bowl with the cooked rice, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder. Mix it all together until everything is evenly distributed. This filling is where all the magic happens!

Stuff the Hens

Now for the fun part—stuffing the hens! Take your Cornish game hens and gently lift the skin over the breast. You don’t want to tear it, so be careful! Fill each hen with the prepared rice mixture, packing it in gently. Don’t overstuff them, or the filling might spill out while they roast. A nice, snug fit will keep everything deliciously intact!

Roast the Hens

Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan, breast side up, and pour the chicken broth over them. This keeps everything moist and flavorful! Cover the pan with foil and pop it into your preheated oven for about 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let them roast for an additional 15 minutes until the skin turns a gorgeous golden brown. To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Wow, it’s going to smell amazing!

Rest and Serve

Once they’re done, don’t rush to serve them right away! Let your stuffed Cornish game hens rest for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial, as it allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy and tender. For a lovely presentation, serve them on a platter with some fresh herbs or alongside colorful roasted vegetables. Your guests are going to be so impressed!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s talk about some pro tips to make your stuffed Cornish game hens absolutely perfect! These little nuggets of wisdom will help you elevate your dish to new heights.

Season generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Taste your filling as you go and adjust it to your liking. A little extra salt or herbs can make a huge difference.
Let the rice cool: Make sure your cooked rice is completely cooled before mixing it with the other ingredients. This helps prevent the hens from cooking unevenly.
Use a meat thermometer: Invest in a good meat thermometer for the best results. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and ensures your hens are perfectly done—no one wants dry poultry!
Resting is key: Remember to let the hens rest after roasting! It’s tempting to dig in right away, but this step is crucial for juicy meat.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to switch up the filling! Add some sautéed mushrooms or swap cranberries for raisins. The possibilities are endless, and you can tailor it to your taste!
Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re making more than two hens, give them space in the roasting pan. This allows the heat to circulate and ensures even cooking.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be ready to impress everyone with your culinary skills. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into these stuffed Cornish game hens! Here’s a breakdown of the typical values per serving, which is one hen. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use.

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 600mg

So, with each bite, you’re not just enjoying a delicious meal, but also getting a good mix of nutrients! It’s the perfect balance of flavors and health, making these stuffed hens a wonderful choice for your next dinner. Enjoy every flavorful moment!

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about making these delightful stuffed Cornish game hens? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries and my answers to help you along the way.

Can I use other types of rice?

Absolutely! You can switch up the rice based on what you have or prefer. Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more chew, while jasmine or basmati rice offers a lovely fragrance that pairs beautifully with the hens. Just remember that different types of rice may have varying cooking times, so make sure they’re all cooked before mixing into your filling. It’s all about finding that perfect flavor combination that suits your taste!

How do I know when the hens are done?

Great question! The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer, and I can’t recommend this enough! Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone; you’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures your hens are perfectly cooked and safe to eat. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also cut into the thigh; the juices should run clear without any pink meat. Trust me, it’s worth the extra step!

What can I serve with stuffed cornish game hens?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love serving these hens with roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or a medley of seasonal veggies. A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly too. And let’s not forget about mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto—they’re a match made in heaven! Whatever you choose, just make sure it complements the rich flavors of the hens, and you’ll have a stunning meal that everyone will rave about!

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Impressive Presentation: These little birds look stunning on the table! Their golden-brown skin and colorful stuffing make them a feast for the eyes.
Delicious Flavor: With a savory filling that combines the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans, each bite is bursting with flavor.
Easy to Prepare: Don’t let their elegant appearance fool you! Stuffed Cornish game hens are surprisingly simple to make, with straightforward steps that anyone can follow.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast, a special birthday dinner, or a cozy family gathering, these hens fit right in at any table.
Customizable Filling: You can easily switch up the stuffing ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand, making this dish versatile and fun!
Leftover Delight: If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), they make for delicious next-day meals, perfect for sandwiches or salads.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made these delightful stuffed Cornish game hens and have some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Storing them properly is key to keeping that delicious flavor and texture intact. Here’s what I recommend:

Cool Down: Allow the hens to cool down to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
Store in Airtight Containers: Place the cooled hens in airtight containers or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. This keeps them fresh and prevents any pesky odors from your fridge affecting their taste.
Refrigerate: You can keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label your containers if you’re like me and often forget what you’ve got!

When it comes to reheating, I’ve got you covered:

Oven Method: For the best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the hens in a baking dish, cover with foil to keep them moist, and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
Microwave Method: If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave. Just place the hen on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals (about 1-2 minutes) until hot. Be careful not to overheat, or you might end up with dry poultry!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your stuffed Cornish game hens just as much the next day, making for a delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy every bite!

Imprimer

Vous pourriez aussi aimer

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake: 5 Reasons to Indulge Today

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe: 40 Minutes to Bliss

South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches: 5 Irresistible Steps

Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.