Carolina Cornish Hens
Juicy Cornish hens with savory sausage and aromatic rice, offering rich flavors perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the Cornish hens in half lengthwise.
- In a large skillet, brown the hens in butter over all sides.
- Remove the hens from the skillet and drain off drippings.
- Brown the hot sausage in the skillet, then remove and drain on paper towels.
- Pour off the drippings from the skillet.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the butter while browning the hens. If you can't find bulk hot sausage, Italian sausage or chorizo can be great substitutes. To enhance the dish, you can also add diced vegetables like bell peppers or onions when browning the sausage. Make sure to keep an eye on the hens to prevent overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
These Carolina Cornish Hens are perfect for a festive occasion or family dinner. Serve them alongside a fresh garden salad and some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of dry white wine pairs beautifully with the dish, enhancing the flavors of the hens. For a delightful dessert, consider serving them with a slice of Fast And Easy Cheese Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hens in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This helps maintain the crispy skin. You can also microwave them, but be aware that this may result in a softer texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carolina Cornish Hens contains roughly 1281 calories, with 48g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 108g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (95% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 945mg per serving (41% 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 make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture. It may take about 24 hours to thaw, so plan accordingly.
What can I substitute for the dry white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is an excellent substitute. It will add moisture and flavor to the dish. You can also use apple juice or white grape juice for a sweeter alternative, but reduce the amount of currant jelly to balance the sweetness.
How can I tell when the Cornish hens are fully cooked?
The best way to check if the Cornish hens are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the meat. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced, and the meat should no longer be 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).