Description
This Stuffed Cornish Game Hens recipe features tender, juicy hens filled with a flavorful homemade bread stuffing mixed with sautéed vegetables, dried fruits, and nuts, then oven-roasted to perfection for a delightful and elegant main dish ideal for special occasions or a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Hens:
- 2 Cornish game hens (1 to 1.5 lb each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
For the Stuffing:
- 2 cups bread cubes
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds or walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add finely chopped onion, celery, and optional mushrooms. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a large bowl and mix in the bread cubes, dried cranberries or raisins, slivered almonds or walnuts, dried thyme, dried sage, and chicken broth. Stir until the bread is evenly moistened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Hens: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the Cornish game hens dry with paper towels. Rub the outside of each hen with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
- Stuff the Hens: Carefully fill each hen’s cavity with the prepared stuffing, packing it lightly to ensure even cooking. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under the body to keep them secure during roasting.
- Roast the Hens: Arrange the stuffed hens in a roasting pan or baking dish. Optionally, add some broth or water to the bottom of the pan to keep the hens moist. Roast in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. Baste the hens with the pan juices halfway through cooking for extra flavor and moisture.
- Serve: Remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and enjoy your delicious stuffed Cornish game hens.
Notes
- Ensure the internal temperature of the hens reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Optional ingredients like mushrooms, dried cranberries, and nuts enhance flavor and texture but can be omitted if desired.
- Tying the legs and tucking the wings helps the hens cook evenly and maintain shape.
- Letting the hens rest after roasting allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Adding broth or water to the roasting pan helps prevent drying out during cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Stuffed Cornish Game Hens, Roasted Cornish Hens, Holiday Dinner, Stuffed Poultry, Oven Roasted Game Hens
