Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are an elegant and flavorful dish perfect for intimate dinners, holidays, or special occasions. These individual hens are tender and juicy, filled with a savory stuffing that adds depth and richness. Their beautiful presentation makes them a memorable centerpiece for any meal.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cornish game hens
olive oil or melted butter
salt and pepper
garlic powder
onion powder
dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, sage)
stuffing mix or cubed bread
onion, finely chopped
celery, finely chopped
carrots, finely chopped
chicken broth
butter
fresh parsley

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a roasting pan.

Rinse and pat dry the Cornish hens, then rub them inside and out with olive oil or melted butter.

Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs.

In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onion, celery, and carrots until softened.

In a large bowl, combine sautéed vegetables with stuffing mix or cubed bread. Moisten with chicken broth until the stuffing holds together but is not soggy. Stir in chopped fresh parsley.

Stuff each hen’s cavity loosely with the prepared stuffing. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine if desired.

Place the hens breast-side up in the roasting pan. Brush with additional butter or oil for extra crispness.

Roast for about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown. Baste occasionally for extra juiciness.

Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 (one hen per person).
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60-75 minutes
Resting time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1.5-2 hours

Variations

Swap the classic stuffing for wild rice with cranberries and nuts for a festive twist.
Add diced apples or dried fruit to the stuffing for a hint of sweetness.
Brush the hens with a honey or maple glaze for a touch of caramelized flavor.
Use fresh herbs like rosemary sprigs tucked under the skin for extra aroma.

storage/reheating

Store leftover hens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, until warmed through.
Freeze cooked hens tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make the stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.

Do I have to stuff the hens?
No, you can bake the stuffing separately in a casserole dish if you prefer.

How do I get crispy skin?
Pat the hens dry and brush with butter or oil. Roasting uncovered and basting helps too.

Can I use other seasonings?
Absolutely! Experiment with your favorite herbs and spices.

Are Cornish hens the same as small chickens?
They are young chickens, usually about 1 to 2 pounds each, prized for their tenderness.

Conclusion

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are a delightful way to impress guests with minimal fuss. Tender, juicy, and full of savory flavors, they turn any meal into a special occasion. Serve them once, and they’ll quickly become a favorite for celebrations big or small!

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