Apricot-Glazed Cornish Game Hens with Sweet Apricot Rice Stuffing

Apricot Glazed Cornish Game Hens with Apricot Rice Stuffing

Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Category: Poultry
Keywords: Meat, < 4 Hours

Description

Experience a burst of sweet and savory flavors with this delectable recipe for Apricot Glazed Cornish Game Hens with Apricot Rice Stuffing. Perfect for a special occasion or a luxurious dinner, these tender game hens are beautifully glazed with a rich apricot sauce and paired with a fragrant apricot rice stuffing. Each bite is a delightful harmony of flavors and textures that will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Glaze:

• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup apricot preserves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Rice Stuffing:

• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 3-4 tablespoons apricot glaze (from above)

For the Hens:

• 6-8 Cornish game hens, thawed
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Cooking spray

Instructions

Prepare the Glaze:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1/4 cup water, 1/4 cup apricot preserves, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
2. Microwave on high for about 20 seconds, then stir to blend.
3. If the mixture isn’t smooth, microwave for an additional 10 seconds and stir again until well combined. Set aside.

Prepare the Rice Stuffing:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped celery, and chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
2. Stir in 1 cup of brown rice and cook for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast.
3. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and add 1/2 cup of chopped dried apricots. Stir in 3-4 tablespoons of the prepared apricot glaze.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover and let it cook for 10-15 minutes.
5. Add pilaf rice, stir to combine, cover again, and simmer for 15-25 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Allow the stuffing to cool. This step can be done earlier in the day if preferred.

Prepare the Cornish Game Hens:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with foil and lightly spray the foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Rinse the Cornish game hens under cold water, remove any giblets, and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder both inside and outside of each hen.
4. Stuff each hen generously with the apricot rice mixture.
5. Brush the outside of the hens with the apricot glaze mixture.
6. To avoid excessive browning, create a foil tent: fold a sheet of foil lengthwise in half and then crimp the edges to form a tent, ensuring there is 1-2 inches of space between the top of the hens and the foil to allow heat to circulate.
7. Bake the hens in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
8. Carefully remove the foil tent and brush the hens with more apricot glaze.
9. Continue baking uncovered for an additional 40-45 minutes, or until the hens are tender and the juices run clear. Baste the hens every 10-15 minutes with the remaining apricot glaze until it is fully used.

Serving Suggestion:

• Serve the Cornish game hens alongside any remaining apricot rice stuffing and garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Enjoy this sweet and savory dish with family and friends, and let each bite be a delightful celebration of flavor! 🍽️🌟