stuffed cornish hen recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
stuffed cornish hen recipe
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The Best stuffed cornish hen recipe

I’m thrilled to share with you my favorite stuffed Cornish hen recipe, a dish that’s become a staple in our household. The moment I discovered this recipe, I knew it was going to be a game-changer.

The combination of flavors and textures is simply divine, and the best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make. I’ve made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for a quick weeknight meal, and every time it’s been a hit.

My kids love helping me stuff the hens with the delicious mixture of herbs and spices, and they always ask for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!) The health benefits of this dish are also a major plus – the Cornish hen is a lean protein source, and the herbs and spices add an extra boost of flavor without any added calories.

I’ve even started serving this dish at our family gatherings, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a new recipe to add to your rotation or just want to impress your loved ones with a delicious homemade meal, this stuffed Cornish hen recipe is sure to become a favorite.

It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight meals to special events like holidays or birthdays. And the best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time – simply prep the filling, stuff the hens, and refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook. This recipe has quickly become one of my go-to’s for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.

Stuffed Cornish Hen with Wild Rice and Mushrooms

Stuffed Cornish Hen with Wild Rice and Mushrooms

4.6 from 1739 votes

A succulent Cornish hen stuffed with a savory wild rice and mushroom mixture, roasted to golden perfection. This elegant dish is perfect for a special dinner, offering a rich flavor and tender meat.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time1 hour 15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 35 mins
Servings: 2Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 650 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Hens

2 Cornish hens (about 1.5 lbs each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Stuffing

1 cup cooked wild rice
1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and saute the onion and garlic for 2 minutes until softened.
3Add the mushrooms and cook for another 3 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
4In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, sauteed vegetables, parsley, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5Stir well to incorporate all ingredients, then set aside to cool slightly.
6Pat the Cornish hens dry with paper towels and season the cavities with salt and pepper.
7Gently stuff each hen with the rice mixture, filling them about three-quarters full.
8Truss the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body.
9Brush the outside of each hen with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
10Place them breast-side up in a roasting pan.
11Roast for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh and the juices run clear when pierced.
12Remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before carving.
13This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
14Serve each hen half with a portion of the stuffing.

🔧Equipment

Roasting pan
Small skillet
Mixing bowl
Kitchen twine
Meat thermometer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 650 kcal🧈Total Fat: 35g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 200mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 55g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add 1/4 cup of dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots to the stuffing. Ensure the hens are fully thawed if using frozen ones, and pat them very dry for crispy skin.

Watch Video Of How Stuffed Cornish Hen with Wild Rice and Mushrooms Works

This stuffed Cornish hen recipe is truly a winner – not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also incredibly easy to make ahead of time. One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it freezes beautifully – simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as needed.

When reheating leftovers from this recipe, I recommend covering them with foil to prevent drying out. This dish is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick weeknight meal solution.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffed Cornish Hen with Wild Rice and Mushrooms

Q: What is the origin of the stuffed Cornish hen recipe?

The stuffed Cornish hen recipe has its roots in traditional British cuisine, where hens were often stuffed with herbs and spices before roasting.

Q: What type of herbs and spices can I use in the filling?

You can customize the filling with your favorite herbs and spices – some popular options include thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, pepper, paprika, or dried oregano.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: How do I know if my Cornish hen is cooked through?

To ensure your Cornish hen is cooked through, check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the hen.

Q: Can I serve this dish as part of a larger meal?

This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts – simply toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.

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