Cornish Game Hens And Rice
Juicy Cornish game hens paired with flavorful seasoned rice, baked to perfection. A hearty, savory dish ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread the rice in a 3-quart shallow baking dish and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden.
- Combine the Italian salad dressing mix with 2 1/2 cups boiling water and the condensed cream of chicken soup, then stir into the rice.
- Cut the thawed Cornish game hens in half lengthwise.
- Season the hens with salt and pepper, if desired.
- Place the hens, cut side down, on top of the rice mixture.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the rice and hens are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the rice before baking. You can substitute the long grain rice with jasmine or basmati rice for a different aroma and texture. If you're short on time, using pre-cooked rotisserie hens can save you about 30 minutes of cooking time. Adjust the seasoning based on your taste preferences, and feel free to sprinkle some herbs like thyme or rosemary over the hens.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish game hens and rice with a light side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A refreshing cucumber salad pairs beautifully with this dish. For a comforting finish, consider serving a slice of Blueberry Peach Pie for dessert. This recipe is also excellent for special occasions or family gatherings, making it a wonderful centerpiece for your dining table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium heat, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Game Hens And Rice contains roughly 463 calories, with 27g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (55% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 674mg per serving (29% 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 be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cooking time may vary slightly, so ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you want a healthier alternative, you can use a homemade cream of chicken soup made from broth and milk thickened with flour. Alternatively, a can of cream of mushroom soup or even a vegetable soup can work for a vegetarian version of the dish.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the Cornish game hens in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the rice mixture can also introduce more flavor and texture. Additionally, using homemade broth instead of water will deepen the taste.
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).