Cornish Game Hen (With Wild Rice)
Succulent Cornish game hens stuffed with aromatic wild rice, raisins, and a hint of butter create a comforting, savory dish perfect for cozy family dinners or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the game hens thoroughly.
- Sprinkle salt over the hens, inside the cavity and on the outside.
- Prepare the wild rice according to the package directions.
- When the rice is cooked, stir in the raisins.
- Fill each hen with the rice mixture and seal with foil or place in a roasting pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Baste the birds with melted butter.
- Continue baking until the hens are golden brown and tender, about 15 to 20 additional minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the hens reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the wild rice. You can also substitute the wild rice with another grain like quinoa for a different texture. If raisins aren't your preference, dried cranberries work well too.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish game hens alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with Savory Fried Rice, which complements the flavors of the dish. A light white wine or sparkling cider can enhance the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cornish game hens 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 until warmed through, about 20 minutes. For added moisture, cover them with foil while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Game Hen (With Wild Rice) contains roughly 171 calories, with 29g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 game hens for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Cornish game hens, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This ensures even cooking and safety. Typically, allow 24 hours for thawing, and then follow the recipe as directed.
What can I use instead of wild rice?
If you don’t have wild rice, you can substitute it with a blend of brown rice or quinoa. Just adjust the cooking time according to the grain you choose, as different grains may require varying amounts of liquid and cooking duration.
How do I know when the hens are done cooking?
The best way to check if the Cornish game 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, and the skin should be golden brown.
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).