Game Hens With Spinach Stuffing
Game hens with spinach stuffing offer a savory, tender poultry dish infused with the rich flavors of butter, green onion, and creamy chicken soup. The stuffed hens make an elegant centerpiece perfect for special dinners or family gatherings, combining crisp skin with flavorful, cheesy spinach filling.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare spinach-rice stuffing.
- With kitchen scissors, cut the hens in half lengthwise.
- Rinse and pat dry the hens.
- Rub some cream of chicken soup into the cut side of each hen half.
- Press 3/4 cup of stuffing onto the cut side of each hen half.
- Hold the stuffing in place with your hand and arrange the hens, skin side up, in a greased shallow baking pan.
- Melt butter in a small pan over low heat and stir in the minced green onion.
- Brush the butter mixture over the hens.
- Bake uncovered in a 375°F oven for 45 to 60 minutes or until the leg joint moves easily.
- During the last half-hour, baste the hens occasionally with pan drippings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme to the stuffing. If you don't have Cornish game hens, a small roasting chicken can work as a substitute. For a lighter option, use low-fat cream of chicken soup. Ensure the stuffing is fully cooked before serving. If you prefer a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the stuffing before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the game hens with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. They pair beautifully with Ken'S Beans for a nutritious addition. For a comforting side, consider making Green Bean-Chicken Casserole. A light white wine or sparkling water complements this dish nicely, enhancing the flavors of the stuffing.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hens in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to dry them out. For best results, cover with a damp paper towel while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Game Hens With Spinach Stuffing contains roughly 671 calories, with 5g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% 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 hens in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the hens and stuffing a day ahead. Assemble them and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Just ensure to bring them to room temperature before baking. This allows for even cooking and helps save time on the day you plan to serve them.
What should I do if I can't find Cornish game hens?
If Cornish game hens are unavailable, you can use small roasting chickens instead. Just adjust the cooking time, as larger birds will require a longer baking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety, regardless of the chicken size.
Can I use a different kind of stuffing?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of stuffing. A wild rice or herb stuffing can add a unique twist. You can also use a store-bought stuffing mix if you're short on time. Just follow the package instructions and incorporate it into your game hens.
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).