Stuffed Cornish Game Hens Recipe

If you’re looking to impress your family or guests with a dish that feels both elegant and comforting, these Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are an absolute winner. Tender, juicy, and bursting with a flavorful stuffing that brings together savory vegetables, sweet dried fruit, and crunchy nuts, this recipe turns modest game hens into a centerpiece-worthy meal. The delightful aroma filling your kitchen as they roast combined with the crispy, golden skin will have everyone eagerly anticipating the first bite. Plus, the portions are perfectly individualized, making it feel special without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering straightforward ingredients is the key to making these Stuffed Cornish Game Hens taste incredible. Each component plays an essential role, from seasoning the birds to creating a stuffing that perfectly balances textures and flavors.

• Cornish game hens: Small and tender, these birds provide an elegant presentation and cook relatively quickly for a whole roasted dish.
• Olive oil: Adds richness to the skin and helps the spices stick, creating a beautiful golden crust.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every layer of flavor throughout the hens and stuffing.
• Garlic powder: Brings a warm, aromatic hit that complements the poultry perfectly.
• Dried thyme: Adds an earthy, herbal note tying together the chicken and stuffing flavors.
• Paprika: Gives the skin a subtle smoky depth and an appetizing color.
• Bread crumbs (or cubed bread): Form the hearty base of the stuffing, soaking up all those wonderful juices.
• Onion, celery, and carrots: These finely chopped vegetables bring freshness, sweetness, and crunch to the stuffing’s texture.
• Raisins or dried cranberries (optional): A sweet burst that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements, elevating each bite.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Provide a delightful crunch that balances the softness of the bread and tender chicken.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a bright, herbaceous lift that finishes the stuffing perfectly.
• Chicken broth: Keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful during cooking.
• Butter: Melted butter brings richness and helps bind the stuffing ingredients together.
• White wine or apple juice: Used for basting, this liquid keeps the hens juicy while adding subtle sweetness and complexity.

How to Make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing

Start by bringing the stuffing to life with a simple sauté of vegetables – onion, celery, and carrots. Softening these veggies releases their sweet, savory flavors that form the backbone of the stuffing’s texture. Once they’re tender, mix them with bread crumbs, dried fruit, nuts, fresh parsley, chicken broth, and butter to create a cohesive, moist, and flavorful stuffing mixture. Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme for that extra burst of herbiness that you’ll taste in every bite.

Step 2: Season the Hens

Pat your Cornish game hens dry – this step ensures beautifully crisp skin. Rub them thoroughly with olive oil, then sprinkle on salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and paprika. These seasonings not only add layers of flavor but also give the hens a gorgeous golden-brown finish when roasted.

Step 3: Stuff the Hens

Fill each hen’s cavity tightly with the prepared stuffing. Packing the stuffing firmly ensures it will stay inside the hen during roasting and absorb all those delicious juices. If you happen to have any extra stuffing, feel free to bake it separately for an additional side or simply save it for another meal.

Step 4: Roast the Hens

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the stuffed hens breast-side up in a roasting pan. Pour the white wine or apple juice into the bottom of the pan to help keep your hens moist during roasting. Roast for about one hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. Every 20 to 30 minutes, baste the hens with the pan juices to lock in that juicy, tender goodness.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

Once out of the oven, allow your Stuffed Cornish Game Hens to rest for at least 10 minutes. This little sneaky step lets the juices redistribute inside the meat, making each bite juicy and tender rather than drying out when cut.

How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Garnishes

To make your dish even more inviting, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a few extra toasted nuts on top for texture and color. A wedge of lemon on the side adds a zesty note that brightens the rich flavors beautifully. If you like a touch of sweetness, a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of cranberry sauce complements these hens perfectly.

Side Dishes

Since Stuffed Cornish Game Hens already have a delightful stuffing, consider pairing them with simple yet elegant sides like roasted seasonal vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette. These choices keep the meal balanced and help highlight the hens without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve each stuffed hen on individual plates garnished with herb sprigs and a small portion of the stuffing alongside. You can also lay them atop a bed of wild rice or couscous for added flair and texture. Wrapping the legs with foil during roasting can keep them looking neat and pristine when presenting at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, allow the leftovers to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. This way, you can savor the flavors again without sacrificing freshness or texture.

Freezing

If you want to save some Stuffed Cornish Game Hens for longer, freeze them once cooled by wrapping tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then placing in a heavy-duty freezer bag. Properly stored, they’ll stay good for up to three months. Thaw thoroughly overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftover hens directly in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through to preserve that lovely crispy skin and juicy interior. Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out, and baste occasionally if possible. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the skin rubbery and the meat dry.

FAQs

Can I prepare the stuffing in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the stuffing up to one day ahead and refrigerate it. Just give it a good stir before stuffing the hens to refresh the flavors and moisture.

What can I use instead of white wine for basting?

If you prefer not to use wine, apple juice is a great alternative that adds subtle sweetness and moisture during roasting. You could also try chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Are Cornish game hens easy to find in stores?

Most well-stocked supermarkets carry Cornish game hens in the frozen section, especially around holidays. Local butcher shops or specialty stores may also have fresher options.

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

Roasting usually takes about one hour at 375°F (190°C), but it’s best to use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.

Can I customize the stuffing ingredients?

Definitely! The stuffing is versatile—try adding mushrooms, different nuts, herbs like sage, or even sausage for a personalized twist that suits your taste.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens combine elegance and flavor in a way that makes any meal feel special, yet remains approachable and comforting. Once you try this recipe, I’m certain it will become a treasured favorite in your cooking repertoire for family dinners and celebrations alike. Don’t hesitate to gather your ingredients and create this delightful dish that’s truly a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

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