Bourbon-Basted Cornish Hens
Succulent bourbon-glazed Cornish hens stuffed with flavorful rice and almonds, offering a savory-sweet profile perfect for special occasions or family dinners with a touch of elegance.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onions in 4 tablespoons butter until translucent.
- Cook rice until tender.
- Combine cooked rice, sautéed onions, almonds, and thyme to make stuffing.
- Stuff hens with the rice mixture and place in a buttered shallow baking dish.
- Alternatively, halve the hens, place cut side down in the dish, and add stuffing on the plate.
- Baste hens with a mixture of 1/2 cup melted butter, salt, pepper, and bourbon.
- Roast at 425°F for 30 minutes, basting three times during cooking.
- Reduce oven temperature to 350°F.
- Continue roasting for 30 minutes, basting two more times.
- Turn hens breast side down and roast for 15 minutes.
- Turn hens breast side up again.
- Baste with melted currant jelly.
- Roast for an additional 30 minutes until cooked through and glazed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries to the stuffing. If you don't have Uncle Ben's rice, any long-grain rice will work. For a twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the bourbon baste. Ensure you baste the hens regularly to achieve a beautiful glaze, similar to what's found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. They pair beautifully with Lemon Blueberry Pecan Cupcakes for dessert, creating a delightful contrast. You might also consider serving a light grain salad or mashed potatoes to complement the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover bourbon-basted Cornish hens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating, but the oven will keep the skin crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bourbon-Basted Cornish Hens contains roughly 23 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 490mg per serving (21% 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 other types of birds instead of Cornish hens?
Yes, you can substitute regular chickens or game hens for Cornish hens. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as larger birds will need more time to cook through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
What can I use instead of bourbon?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, consider using apple cider or a mix of chicken broth and a splash of vanilla extract for a similar flavor profile. This will still provide a sweet undertone without the alcohol.
How do I know when the hens are cooked through?
The best way to check if the hens are done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced. If you don't have a thermometer, make sure the meat is no longer pink.
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).