Crock-Pot Cornish Hens
Tender Cornish hens cooked in a slow cooker with rice, creamy soups, and onions, creating a comforting, savory dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in the crock-pot with the hens on top.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mixture. If you prefer a healthier twist, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for added depth, or even experiment with different soups like cream of mushroom. This dish is perfect for serving alongside a fresh salad or steamed veggies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens on a platter with the rice underneath, garnished with fresh herbs for a touch of elegance. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You could also offer a light dessert like fruit salad to finish the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the hens and rice in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot. Be sure to add a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Cornish Hens contains roughly 880 calories, with 68g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (136% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2118mg per serving (92% 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 frozen Cornish hens for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Cornish hens. Just make sure to allow extra cooking time. If cooking from frozen, it’s recommended to cook on high for 5 to 6 hours instead of low for 8 hours. Always ensure they reach the proper internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
What can I substitute for the cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can substitute it with an equal amount of cream of mushroom soup or even a homemade white sauce mixed with sautéed celery for a similar flavor. This recipe is quite flexible, so feel free to get creative with your soup choices.
Can I add vegetables to the crock-pot with the hens?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers can enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into uniform pieces and place them in the crock-pot with the other ingredients. They will cook down beautifully and soak up the flavors from the hens and soups.
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).