Papa'S Rock Cornish Hens
Juicy Cornish hens stuffed with lemon and leeks, seasoned with poultry spices, offering a flavorful and elegant main course perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the hens in a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Stuff each hen with a lemon half and a quarter of the sliced leeks.
- Sprinkle poultry seasoning over the hens.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour or until the hens are cooked through and the juices run clear.
- Let stand for 10 minutes, then remove the lemon halves and leeks before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the hens in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking. If leeks are unavailable, shallots or onions can serve as excellent substitutes. Ensure the hens are patted dry before seasoning to achieve a crispy skin. If you're short on time, try using store-bought poultry seasoning for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hens alongside a refreshing Garden Souffle Salad for a balanced meal. Roasted vegetables or Old-Fashioned Hominy make excellent sides, complementing the dish's richness. A light white wine or sparkling water enhances the flavors beautifully, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cornish hens should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 20 minutes. For best results, cover with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Papa'S Rock Cornish Hens contains roughly 151 calories, with 14g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value) and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium.
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
How do I know if the hens are fully cooked?
Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. The temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, the juices should run clear when the meat is pierced. If they are pink, continue baking until fully cooked.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can season and stuff the hens a few hours in advance, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just allow them to come to room temperature before placing them in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).