Cornish Hen And Rice Bake
A comforting baked dish featuring tender Cornish hens atop savory rice with mushrooms and celery, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Using a 13 x 9-inch pan, combine uncooked rice with seasonings, celery, mushrooms, and water.
- Dot the rice mixture with butter.
- Cut the hens in half lengthwise.
- Place the hens, cut-side down, over the rice mixture.
- Brush the hens with melted butter.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake at 375°F for 1 hour.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the rice mix with garlic powder or onion powder. If you don't have Cornish hens, you can substitute with small chickens or even bone-in chicken thighs, adjusting the cooking time as needed. To enhance the dish, add some frozen peas or carrots into the rice mixture for a pop of color and nutrition. This recipe pairs beautifully with Danish Meat Patties for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the hens and rice. A light white wine or herbal tea would pair nicely with this meal. For dessert, consider serving Swedish Gingerbread Cookies for a festive finish.
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, ensuring they are heated evenly throughout.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Hen And Rice Bake contains roughly 605 calories, with 8g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 628mg per serving (27% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice mixture and place the hens on top, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just ensure to bring it back to room temperature before baking, and you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
What can I substitute for the wild rice mix?
If you don't have wild rice mix, you can use a combination of long-grain white rice and a bit of brown rice for a similar texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and water ratio according to the type of rice you use.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
While this recipe is centered around Cornish hens, you could create a vegetarian version by using a hearty vegetable like portobello mushrooms or stuffed bell peppers in place of the hens. Browse more vegetarian recipes for inspiration on how to make a satisfying meatless alternative.
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).