Stuffed Cornish Game Hens Recipe 🍗
Introduction:
Indulge in the succulent flavors of our Stuffed Cornish Game Hens recipe, a delightful poultry dish that’s perfect for any occasion. These tender game hens are stuffed with a savory mixture of wild rice, aromatic herbs, and crispy bacon, creating a symphony of tastes and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to impress!
Overview:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Cuisine: Poultry
- Keywords: Meat, Weeknight, < 4 Hours
Ingredients:
- 8 Cornish game hens
- 1 cup wild rice
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 8 strips bacon
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 1093
- Total Fat: 54.5g
- Saturated Fat: 17.1g
- Cholesterol: 488.7mg
- Sodium: 1349mg
- Carbohydrates: 35.7g
- Fiber: 4.8g
- Sugar: 2.7g
- Protein: 111g
Instructions:
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Cook and Drain Rice:
- Start by cooking the wild rice according to the package instructions until it’s tender. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and set the rice aside.
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Saute Onion in Butter:
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, releasing its aromatic flavors.
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Mix with Rice, Salt, and Herbs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice with the sautéed onion, salt, dried thyme, and dried marjoram. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly incorporated, creating a flavorful stuffing mixture.
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Prepare the Cornish Game Hens:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Season each Cornish game hen with salt and pepper both inside and out. Then, generously stuff each hen with the prepared rice mixture, ensuring they are well filled.
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Add Bacon Strips:
- Lay a strip of bacon over the top of each stuffed Cornish game hen, adding an extra layer of richness and flavor.
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Cooking Time:
- Place the stuffed hens in a large roasting pan, arranging them in a single layer. Cook, uncovered, in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, or until the hens are golden brown and cooked through, basting occasionally with the drippings to keep them moist and flavorful.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, remove the stuffed Cornish game hens from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot alongside your favorite side dishes for a truly memorable dining experience!
Tips:
- For added flavor, consider adding diced almonds or other nuts to the stuffing mixture for a delightful crunch.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the cooked hens reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safely cooked through.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion:
Elevate your dinner table with the exquisite flavors of our Stuffed Cornish Game Hens recipe. With its tender meat, flavorful stuffing, and crispy bacon topping, this dish is a true culinary masterpiece that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious meal, these stuffed game hens are guaranteed to impress!