Cornish Hens With Mushroom Rice
Juicy Cornish hens stuffed with flavorful mushroom rice, roasted to perfection with a savory lemon butter glaze, ideal for festive dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season hens with salt and pepper, both inside and out.
- In a small pan, cook chopped onion and rice in butter for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add water, chicken bouillon cube, lemon juice, and salt to the rice mixture.
- Reduce heat and cook slowly for 20 to 25 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and rice is fluffy.
- Stir in mushrooms into the rice mixture.
- Stuff the hens with the mushroom rice mixture.
- Place the stuffed hens breast side up in a shallow baking pan.
- Brush the hens with margarine.
- Cover and roast in a 400°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and roast for an additional hour, brushing with margarine during the last 15 minutes.
- Check for doneness by ensuring the leg twists easily.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary when cooking the rice. If you don't have Cornish hens, you can substitute with small chickens or game hens. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon and replace the chicken with stuffed bell peppers. This recipe can also be made in a Crock-Pot for a slower, more tender result.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Pair with roasted potatoes or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up any juices. This dish also goes well with a flavorful sauce, such as a lemon herb sauce, or browse more American recipes for accompanying ideas.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the stuffed hens in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover with foil to prevent drying out and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can slice the hens and microwave portions on a plate with a damp paper towel for moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Hens With Mushroom Rice contains roughly 189 calories, with 7g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (79% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 496mg per serving (22% 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 mushroom rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mushroom rice mixture a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and stuff the hens just before roasting. This can enhance the flavors and make the cooking process easier on the day you serve them.
What can I substitute for mushrooms in the rice?
If you're not a fan of mushrooms, you can replace them with diced bell peppers or zucchini for a different texture and flavor. Alternatively, omit them altogether and add more seasonings or vegetables of your choice to the rice for added depth.
How do I know when the Cornish hens are fully cooked?
To ensure the hens are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. Additionally, the juices should run clear when the leg is pierced. Enjoy your perfectly cooked dish!
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).