stuffed game hen recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best stuffed game hen recipe

I’ve been making stuffed game hen recipe for years, and it’s a favorite in our household. My kids love it when I serve it on special occasions, and it’s also a staple in our daily meals.

The dish is easy to make, and the best part is that it’s incredibly healthy. The game hen provides lean protein, while the stuffing is packed with fiber-rich vegetables and herbs.

I’ve experimented with various ingredients over the years, but this recipe remains my go-to. The flavors are so well-balanced that even my picky eaters ask for seconds.

The aroma of the roasted hen fills the entire house, making everyone’s mouth water in anticipation. It’s a dish that never fails to impress, and I’m excited to share it with you today.

Herb-Roasted Stuffed Game Hen

4.7 from 1188 votes

A Cornish game hen stuffed with a savory blend of wild rice, mushrooms, and herbs, then roasted until golden and juicy. This elegant dish is perfect for a special dinner for two, offering rich flavors and a beautiful presentation.

Prep Time25 mins
Cook Time55 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 20 mins
Servings: 2Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 520 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Hen

1 (2-pound) Cornish game hen, giblets removed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Stuffing

1/2 cup cooked wild rice
1/4 cup finely chopped mushrooms
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2In a small bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, mushrooms, onion, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, pepper, and melted butter until evenly mixed.
3Pat the game hen dry with paper towels.
4Season the cavity and the outside of the hen with salt and pepper.
5Spoon the stuffing mixture into the cavity, filling it loosely.
6Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body.
7Place the hen breast-side up in a roasting pan.
8Brush the skin with olive oil.
9Roast for 45 to 55 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and crispy and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F.
10Let the hen rest for 10 minutes before carving.

🔧Equipment

Small bowl
Roasting pan
Kitchen twine
Meat thermometer
Basting brush

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 520 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 210mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 45g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add 1 tablespoon of dried cranberries or chopped apple to the stuffing. Ensure the hen is fully thawed if using frozen, and adjust roasting time if the hen is larger or smaller.

This stuffed game hen recipe is a staple in our household because it’s easy to make and packed with nutrients.

Whether you’re serving it on special occasions or as a daily meal, this dish never fails to impress.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how versatile it is – you can adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Herb-Roasted Stuffed Game Hen

Q: What type of game hen should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you’ll want to use a plump and fresh game hen. Look for one that’s around 1-2 pounds in weight, as this will ensure that the meat stays juicy during cooking.

Q: Can I substitute chicken or turkey for the game hen?

While you can use chicken or turkey as substitutes, keep in mind that they have different flavor profiles and textures compared to game hen. If you’re looking for a similar taste experience, you might consider using poussin or Cornish hens instead.

Q: How do I ensure that the stuffing doesn’t dry out during cooking?

To prevent the stuffing from drying out, make sure to keep it moist by adding enough liquid to the mixture. You can also cover the hen with foil during cooking to trap moisture and promote even browning.

Q: Can I prepare the stuffed game hen ahead of time?

You can prepare the stuffed game hen up to 24 hours in advance, but be sure to store it in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). This will help prevent bacterial growth and foodborne illness.

Q: What are some variations on this recipe that I can try?

You can experiment with different spices and herbs to give your stuffed game hen a unique flavor profile. Some options include adding dried cranberries for a sweet and tangy twist or using fresh thyme for a more savory taste.

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