Paula'S Cornish Hens
Juicy Cornish hens cooked with a rich tomato and wine sauce, seasoned with spices and garlic, perfect for a hearty, flavorful meal for family or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove skin from the Cornish hens and cut into pieces.
- Brown sliced onion and chopped garlic in olive oil.
- Add chicken pieces and spices (parsley, paprika, salt, pepper).
- Brown the chicken on both sides.
- Add crushed tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Pour in red wine, water, add Knorr chicken bouillon and mustard.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and cook on low for 30 minutes in a covered pot.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes and serve with rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the Cornish hens in the red wine and spices for a few hours before cooking. If you don’t have red wine, chicken broth can be a good substitute. Adjust the level of paprika to suit your taste, and consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a hint of sweetness. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can complement the dish well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens over a bed of rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. A fresh Tossed Vegetable Salad or a Roasted Pepper Salad pairs nicely, adding a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider serving with crusty bread to mop up the sauce, or a side of creamy mashed potatoes.
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 skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Cover with a lid to steam and warm through evenly. Alternatively, you can microwave them, covered, in short intervals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paula'S Cornish Hens contains roughly 1053 calories, with 16g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (86% of the Daily Value), iron (58% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2505mg per serving (109% 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 whole Cornish hens instead of cut pieces?
Yes, you can use whole Cornish hens. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as whole hens will take longer to cook through. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What can I substitute for crushed tomatoes?
If you don’t have crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes or even tomato sauce can be used as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly, so you might want to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. The flavors often deepen when allowed to sit overnight, making it even more delicious. Just follow the storage instructions for best results.
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).