Tropical Stuffed Cornish Hens
Tropical Stuffed Cornish Hens combine sweet pineapple, crunchy macadamia nuts, and fragrant ginger, creating a delightful dish perfect for special occasions or flavorful family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onions, drained pineapple tidbits, macadamia nuts, cooked brown rice, crystallized ginger, currants, and chicken broth until flavors meld.
- Stuff each Cornish hen with approximately 2/3 cup of the mixture.
- Roast the stuffed hens at 350°F for 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Baste the hens periodically with the pineapple jelly mixture during roasting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tropical twist, consider substituting the macadamia nuts with cashews or almonds if needed. You can also use quinoa instead of brown rice for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the stuffing mixture. Make sure to baste the hens with the pineapple jelly mixture every 20 minutes for optimal flavor and moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tropical Stuffed Cornish Hens on a bed of fluffy rice or alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Pair with a light white wine or tropical fruit punch for a refreshing accompaniment. This dish also pairs beautifully with Venna'S Scalloped Potatoes(Very Good!) for a delightful dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed Cornish hens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hens in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tropical Stuffed Cornish Hens contains roughly 663 calories, with 30g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), protein (60% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2029mg per serving (88% 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
How can I tell when the Cornish hens are fully cooked?
The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F. Additionally, the juices should run clear when you cut into the meat, ensuring it's cooked all the way through.
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).