Stuffed Cornish With Apricot Glaze
Juicy Cornish game hens stuffed with seasoned rice and glazed with apricot for a delightful main dish perfect for special occasions or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Prepare rice according to the package directions.
- Rinse hens in cool water and pat dry.
- Stuff hens loosely with cooked rice.
- Fold wings back and tie legs together.
- Season the outside of hens with tarragon, salt, and pepper.
- Place hens in a large shallow baking pan, breast side up.
- Bake, basting frequently with apricot glaze, for 1 hour and 10 minutes or until the internal juices run clear.
- Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the hen; it should read 180 degrees Fahrenheit.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using homemade apricot glaze instead of store-bought. If you don't have tarragon, thyme or rosemary can be good substitutes. Make sure not to overstuff the hens to ensure even cooking and moisture retention. Basting frequently with the glaze will keep the meat juicy and enhance the sweetness of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed Cornish hens with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. They pair beautifully with Forever Slaw for a crunchy contrast. A light mustard salad dressing can also complement the dish well. For a comforting dessert, consider serving spiced baked apples to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hens in a baking dish covered with foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. This will help retain moisture and keep the skin crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Cornish With Apricot Glaze contains roughly 43 calories, with 6g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 500mg per serving (22% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the hens and stuff them a few hours in advance. Just cover them and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for an easier cooking process on the day of serving.
What can I use instead of long grain & wild rice?
You can substitute the long grain & wild rice with quinoa, couscous, or even a mixture of brown rice and wild rice. Just ensure to adjust the cooking times according to the rice you choose, as some may require longer or shorter cooking times.
How do I know when the hens are fully cooked?
The best way to ensure the hens are fully cooked is by using an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the hen; it should read 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced, indicating that the meat is done.
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).