Southwestern Game Hens With Spiced Cornbread Stuffing
Savory Cornish game hens stuffed with spiced cornbread, featuring vibrant southwestern flavors like green chilies and cumin, perfect for intimate gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season the game hens with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the stuffing mix according to package directions.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the seasoning packet, 1/4 cup butter, 1 1/2 cups hot water, green chilies, and onion.
- Add the prepared stuffing mix to the bowl and combine.
- Lightly stuff the hens with the mixture.
- Place the hens breast up on a shallow baking sheet and brush with melted butter.
- Roast, covered, at 400°F for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and roast for an additional hour, basting occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped jalapeños or other spices to the stuffing mix. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute half of the butter with olive oil. You can also use leftover cornbread instead of the dressing mix for a homemade touch. Ensure to season the hens generously for a balanced flavor throughout.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the game hens alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with a side of cornbread or a light rice dish. For a festive touch, consider serving with a refreshing salsa or guacamole for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the hens in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. This ensures they remain juicy and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwestern Game Hens With Spiced Cornbread Stuffing contains roughly 1041 calories, with 50g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and protein (100% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1039mg per serving (45% 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 other types of poultry instead of Cornish hens?
Yes, you can substitute with small chickens or game birds, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Just ensure they are thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
How can I make the stuffing vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the cornbread dressing mix with a vegetarian cornbread mix and omit the green chilies if desired. You can enhance the flavor with vegetable broth instead of water.
What can I do if I don't have salsa?
If salsa is unavailable, you can use diced tomatoes with green chilies or a homemade mixture of chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices. This will still provide a similar flavor profile for the dish.
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).