Baked Cornish Hen With Rice
Juicy baked Cornish hens paired with seasoned wild rice and vegetables, offering a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped celery and uncooked rice in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Spread sliced onions over the rice and celery mixture.
- Place the split, washed Cornish hens skin side up on top of the rice and vegetables.
- Bring water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add chicken bouillon, Italian herb seasoning, and the rice packet seasoning to the boiling water.
- Stir until the bouillon and seasonings are dissolved.
- Pour the seasoned boiling water over the hens and rice in the baking dish.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil and brush the hens with butter.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes, or until the hens are cooked through and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the Cornish hens in your favorite herbs and spices a few hours before cooking. If you don't have long grain and wild rice, you can substitute with jasmine or basmati rice, adjusting the water accordingly. To enhance the dish, try adding chopped mushrooms or bell peppers to the vegetable layer for more depth, akin to the flavors found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked Cornish hen alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of roasted Brussels sprouts. This dish also complements well with a glass of white wine, making it an excellent choice for festive gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked Cornish hen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hens in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to maintain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Cornish Hen With Rice contains roughly 658 calories, with 20g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1773mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen Cornish hens for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Cornish hens. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking. This may take 24 hours, so plan ahead!
What can I serve with baked Cornish hen?
Baked Cornish hen pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or even a grain like quinoa. For a comforting side, consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes or a flavorful stuffing, reminiscent of classic Chicken recipes.
How can I tell when the Cornish hens are done cooking?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read at least 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear when the hens are pierced. This ensures they are thoroughly cooked.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).