Cornish Game Hens With Wild Rice Stuffing
Juicy Cornish game hens stuffed with flavorful wild rice, mushrooms, and celery, then baked to perfection—ideal for intimate dinners or special occasions with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the wild rice mix according to package instructions, using chicken bouillon cubes in the water.
- Saute chopped celery and hen's livers in melted butter until tender.
- Add mushrooms and half of the mushroom juice to the rice mixture and mix well.
- Clean the hens thoroughly and salt the inside and outside.
- Stuff each hen with the rice mixture and place them on their backs in a baking pan.
- Baste the hens with melted butter and bake at 350°F for approximately 1.5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the wild rice stuffing. You can substitute the wild rice mix with brown rice or quinoa if preferred. For a richer taste, use homemade chicken broth instead of water with bouillon. Ensure to thoroughly clean the Cornish hens and check for any leftover feathers before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish game hens with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with wild rice pilaf or mashed potatoes. For added flavor, consider drizzling a homemade gravy over the hens. This dish is perfect for special occasions or family gatherings, showcasing delicious American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers 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 325°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Game Hens With Wild Rice Stuffing contains roughly 109 calories, with 13g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1809mg per serving (79% 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 prepare the stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the wild rice stuffing a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and stuff the hens just before baking to ensure freshness. Be sure to let the stuffing come to room temperature before using to help with even cooking.
How can I tell when the hens are fully cooked?
The Cornish hens are fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the breast and the juices run clear. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure they are safe to eat.
What can I serve as a side dish?
Consider serving a light citrus salad or steamed green beans to complement the richness of the hens. Roasted root vegetables or a creamy potato dish also work well. For a comforting touch, you might enjoy pairing it with Chicken Pie With Biscuit Topping.
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).