Cornish Hens In Rice Stuffing
Juicy Cornish hens stuffed with flavorful rice and almonds, roasted to perfection with a buttery, lemony glaze—ideal for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season the hens with salt and pepper.
- In a saucepan, cook almonds, chopped onion, and rice in butter for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Add water, chicken bouillon cube, lemon juice, and salt.
- Bring to a boil and simmer slowly for 20 to 25 minutes until rice is fluffy.
- Stir in mushrooms.
- Stuff the hens with the rice mixture and brush them with butter.
- Roast in a shallow covered pan at 400°F for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and roast for an additional 1 hour.
- Brush the hens with melted butter during the last 15 minutes of roasting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding dried cranberries or chopped apples to the rice stuffing for a hint of sweetness. If you don't have game hens, you can substitute with Cornish game hens or even a whole chicken. Ensure even cooking by checking the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F. For a more savory flavor, try using broth instead of water.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Pair with fluffy mashed potatoes or wild rice to complement the flavors. For a festive touch, consider serving with cranberry sauce or a light gravy. This dish pairs beautifully with Pat'S Easy Chicken Casserole for a hearty gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed hens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, covering with foil to retain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions, but for the best texture, oven reheating is recommended.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Hens In Rice Stuffing contains roughly 1466 calories, with 24g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 134g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1548mg per serving (67% 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 rice stuffing a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and stuff the hens right before roasting. This will save time and allow the flavors to meld nicely.
What can I use instead of slivered almonds?
If you don't have slivered almonds, you can substitute with chopped pecans or walnuts for a different nutty flavor. Alternatively, sunflower seeds can be used for a nut-free option, still providing a nice crunch.
How do I know when the hens are fully cooked?
The best way to ensure your hens are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F. If you don't have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear when you cut into the meat.
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).