Hens In A Basket
Hens In A Basket is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender Cornish game hens or chicken quarters combined with savory mushroom and onion flavors. The creamy rice stuffing adds richness, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings that appreciate classic, flavorful poultry dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make stuffing on the stove according to the package directions and set aside.
- Prepare the hens or chicken quarters by halving the Cornish game hens or using four chicken quarters.
- In a baking dish, place the prepared poultry pieces.
- In a bowl, mix the mushroom pieces, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and dry onion soup mix.
- Spread the mushroom mixture over the poultry.
- Prepare the chicken stuffing mix as directed on the package.
- Spread the stuffing around the poultry in the baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes, or until the poultry is cooked through.
- Remove from oven, serve hot, and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker option, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw poultry. If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute low-fat milk for regular milk. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor. You can also mix in some frozen vegetables for added nutrition. This dish is great for busy weeknights and is similar to other comforting chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheesy Potato Bake, adding a creamy texture to your plate. Consider offering warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A crisp white wine can complement the dish well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring they are heated through completely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hens In A Basket contains roughly 744 calories, with 22g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1249mg per serving (54% 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 different types of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the Cornish game hens and chicken quarters with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as smaller pieces will cook faster. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Is there a vegetarian version of Hens In A Basket?
Certainly! You can create a vegetarian version by replacing the chicken with hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or eggplant, and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The stuffing can remain the same, or you could use a plant-based stuffing mix for a completely meat-free dish.
How can I add more flavor to the dish?
To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the poultry in your favorite herbs and spices before cooking. Adding garlic powder, paprika, or even a splash of white wine to the mushroom mixture can elevate the overall taste. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top before serving also add a nice touch.
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).