Cornish Hen And Wild Rice Stuffing
Juicy Cornish hens stuffed with flavorful wild rice, apples, and herbs make a hearty, elegant main course perfect for special occasions or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the wild rice according to the package directions.
- Saute the minced onion in 3 tablespoons of melted butter until translucent.
- Combine the cooked rice, sautéed onion, shredded apple, beaten egg, parsley, and thyme in a mixing bowl.
- Stuff each Cornish hen with the rice mixture and place in a baking dish.
- Dot the hens with 1 tablespoon of butter on top.
- Bake at 375°F for approximately 2 hours until the hens are cooked through and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of wild and brown rice or adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the stuffing. If you don't have an egg, a tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with water can serve as a substitute. Make sure to season the hens generously with salt before baking to enhance the flavor. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hen with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Pair it with a light white wine or a refreshing apple cider to complement the flavors of the dish. For dessert, consider serving with a slice of Marshmallow Strawberry Dessert to finish off the meal on a sweet note.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cornish hen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hen in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain moisture and keeps the skin crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Hen And Wild Rice Stuffing contains roughly 673 calories, with 6g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 657mg 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 chicken instead of Cornish hens?
Yes, you can substitute Cornish hens with small chickens or even chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken may require less time to cook through, typically around 1 to 1.5 hours at the same temperature.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted seasonal vegetables or a light salad. For a heartier option, consider serving with creamy dill veggie dip and crackers as an appetizer to complement the main course.
Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to stuff the hens just before baking to ensure they stay juicy and flavorful.
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).