Stuffed Cornish Game Hens

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are an elegant, flavorful main dish perfect for holiday dinners, special occasions, or an elevated weeknight meal. These miniature whole birds are tender, juicy, and beautifully golden, filled with a savory stuffing that enhances their flavor and adds a touch of rustic charm to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cornish game hens offer a beautiful presentation and personalized portions, making them ideal for entertaining or intimate dinners. The stuffing adds moisture and depth to the meat, and the crispy, golden skin seals in all the juices. This dish is surprisingly easy to prepare yet feels luxurious and festive. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides.

ingredients

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

For the hens:

• Cornish game hens (1 per person)
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Dried thyme or rosemary
• Paprika (optional, for color)
• Lemon wedges and fresh herbs (for garnish)

For the stuffing:

• Day-old bread cubes
• Onion, chopped
• Celery, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Chicken broth
• Butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Dried sage, thyme, or poultry seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: diced apple, dried cranberries, or sausage crumbles

directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onion, celery, and garlic until soft. Stir in bread cubes, broth, herbs, and seasonings. Mix until moist but not soggy. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Rinse and pat dry the game hens. Season inside and out with salt, pepper, and other seasonings.
4. Stuff each hen loosely with prepared stuffing (do not overfill). Tie legs together with kitchen twine.
5. Brush hens with olive oil or melted butter and place them in a roasting pan or on a rack.
6. Roast for 50–60 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden and crisp. Baste once or twice during roasting for extra moisture.
7. Rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

Serves 2 (1 hen per person)
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 60 minutes
Rest time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Wild Rice Stuffing: Use wild rice, mushrooms, and cranberries for a hearty, gluten-free stuffing.
• Mediterranean: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese to the stuffing.
• Apple-Sage: Mix in diced apples and fresh sage for a sweet, autumn-inspired variation.
• Herb Butter Rub: Spread herb-infused butter under the skin before roasting for more flavor.
• Orange-Glazed: Brush hens with a mix of orange juice, honey, and Dijon during the last 15 minutes of roasting.

storage/reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat hens in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 15–20 minutes or until heated through.
You can also remove the meat and reheat in a skillet or microwave for quicker meals.
Freeze cooked, cooled hens (without stuffing) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What are Cornish game hens?

Cornish game hens are young chickens, usually weighing 1 to 1.5 pounds each. They are known for their tenderness and are ideal for individual servings.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and stuff the hens a few hours in advance. Keep them refrigerated until ready to roast.

Is it safe to cook stuffing inside the hens?

Yes, as long as the center of the stuffing reaches 165°F. Don’t overpack it, and use a thermometer to check.

Can I use store-bought stuffing?

Absolutely. Prepare it as directed and use it to stuff the hens.

How do I get crispy skin?

Pat the skin dry before seasoning, and roast uncovered. Basting with butter or oil also helps.

Can I grill Cornish game hens?

Yes, spatchcock (remove the backbone) the hens and grill over medium heat until cooked through.

Do I have to tie the legs?

Tying the legs (trussing) helps the hens cook evenly and keeps the stuffing inside, but it’s not strictly necessary.

What should I serve with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a fresh salad all pair beautifully.

Can I stuff the hens with something other than bread?

Yes—try quinoa, wild rice, or even cooked orzo for a different texture.

What wine pairs well with this recipe?

Chardonnay or Pinot Noir pair well, depending on the stuffing and seasoning used.

Conclusion

Stuffed Cornish Game Hens are a beautiful and satisfying way to serve a classic roast with a gourmet twist. Whether you’re preparing a holiday meal or a romantic dinner, this dish is sure to impress. With juicy meat, flavorful stuffing, and a golden, crispy skin, these little birds deliver big on flavor and presentation.

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