There is something truly delightful about the way the flavors come together in this Stuffed Cornish Game Hens with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Recipe. Tender, juicy hens infused with aromatic herbs and bright lemon slices create an elegant yet comforting meal perfect for any occasion. The combination of butter-basted skin, savory herb stuffing, and a citrusy zing makes each bite irresistibly flavorful. Whether it’s a special dinner or a cozy weekend treat, these game hens deliver a beautiful balance of taste and presentation that will surely impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential in crafting the perfect Stuffed Cornish Game Hens with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Recipe. Each component plays an important role—from the fresh herbs that elevate the aroma to the bread cubes or rice providing texture in the stuffing, every ingredient contributes to a harmonious final dish.
- Cornish game hens (2): The star of the dish—small birds that roast beautifully and serve as individual portions.
- Small onion, diced (1): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed with garlic.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): Provides a fragrant punch that infuses the stuffing with warmth.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing and under the skin to keep the hens moist and flavorful.
- Bread cubes or cooked rice (1 cup): Acts as the base for the stuffing, adding texture and substance.
- Fresh rosemary, chopped (1 tablespoon): Offers a piney, earthy aroma that complements the poultry.
- Fresh thyme, chopped (1 tablespoon): Lends a delicate herbal note that brightens the stuffing.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (1 tablespoon): Adds freshness and a pop of color to balance flavors.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to rub on the bird’s skin, helping it crisp beautifully.
- Lemon, sliced (1): Provides citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful during cooking.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all flavors and seasons the dish perfectly.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds a touch of heat and depth to round out the seasoning.
How to Make Stuffed Cornish Game Hens with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatic Stuffing
Start by melting the butter in a skillet over medium heat, then add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until you can smell their wonderful fragrance filling your kitchen—this forms the delicious savory base for your stuffing.
Step 2: Combine the Stuffing Ingredients
Stir in the bread cubes or cooked rice, fresh rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Cook this mixture gently until it’s moist but not soggy, then set it aside to cool. This step ensures your stuffing is perfectly textured and flavorful for stuffing the hens.
Step 3: Prepare the Cornish Game Hens
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Pat the hens dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp during roasting. This attention to detail will make all the difference in the final texture.
Step 4: Add Butter and Herbs Under the Skin
Carefully separate the skin from the breast meat using your fingers or a spoon. Insert small pats of butter mixed with fresh herbs under the skin. This method infuses the meat with incredible moisture and herbal flavor as it roasts.
Step 5: Stuff the Hens and Secure
Fill the cavity of each hen with the cooled stuffing mixture. To keep everything in place, tie the legs together tightly with kitchen twine. This not only keeps the stuffing secure but also helps the birds roast evenly.
Step 6: Season and Add Lemon
Rub the outside of each hen with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, and additional fresh herbs. Add lemon slices on top or inside the cavity to impart a wonderful zingy aroma throughout the roasting process.
Step 7: Roast to Perfection
Place the hens on a rack inside a roasting pan, allowing air to circulate around the birds for even cooking. Roast them for 50 to 60 minutes, occasionally basting to keep the skin shiny and flavorful. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure they’re fully cooked and juicy.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
After removing the hens from the oven, let them rest for about 10 minutes. This crucial step helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite tender and moist.
How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Game Hens with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, fresh sprigs of parsley, thyme, or rosemary paired with lemon wedges make perfect garnishes. They brighten the plate visually and add a burst of fresh aroma as your guests dig in.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted seasonal vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. The vibrant greens or creamy textures create an enjoyable balance alongside the rich and herbaceous hens.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving each hen on a large leaf of kale or Swiss chard for a rustic touch, or place them invitingly on a wooden board surrounded by lemon wedges and herb sprigs. Individual plating with a drizzle of pan juices adds extra flair for a special dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Stuffed Cornish Game Hens cool to room temperature, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to three days, making perfect next-day meals or snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze the hens after roasting by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or placing them in freezer-friendly bags or containers. Use within two months for best quality and thaw gently in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For moist, tender leftovers, reheat stuffed hens in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit, covering them loosely with foil. This method helps retain moisture while warming through evenly. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve texture.
FAQs
Can I use rice instead of bread cubes for the stuffing?
Absolutely! Cooked rice works wonderfully as a stuffing base, offering a slightly different texture but still absorbing the beautiful herb and broth flavors perfectly.
How long does it take to roast Cornish game hens?
Typically, roasting takes about 50 to 60 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit is the best way to confirm they are fully cooked.
Can I prepare the stuffing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before stuffing the hens to make the process easier.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs on hand?
Dried herbs can be used as a substitute, but reduce the quantity to about one-third since their flavor is more concentrated. Fresh herbs, however, make the biggest impact in this recipe’s bright and fresh profile.
Is it necessary to tie the legs of the hens?
Tying the legs helps keep the stuffing secure and promotes even cooking by maintaining a compact shape. It also gives a neat and professional appearance once roasted.
Final Thoughts
There is so much joy in preparing and savoring this Stuffed Cornish Game Hens with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Recipe. It’s an impressive dish that feels both luxurious and comforting at the same time. Give it a try, and you might just find it becoming a cherished favorite for gatherings or a special weeknight dinner. The fresh herbs and lemon truly elevate the natural flavor of the hens, creating a meal that’s as beautiful to serve as it is to eat.
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Stuffed Cornish Game Hens with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
This recipe for Stuffed Cornish Game Hens features tender hens filled with a savory herb and bread or rice stuffing, roasted to golden perfection with lemon slices and aromatic seasonings. Ideal for an elegant yet easy meal, this dish combines fragrant herbs, garlic, and a buttery stuffing that complements the delicate meat of the hens.
Ingredients
Game Hens
- 2 Cornish game hens
Stuffing
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup bread cubes or 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Seasoning and Finishing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Additional salt and pepper for skin seasoning
- Butter and herbs for placing under the skin
- Kitchen twine for tying legs
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Prepare Stuffing: Stir in the bread cubes or cooked rice, fresh rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Cook the mixture until it is moist but not soggy, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Preheat Oven and Prep Hens: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the Cornish game hens dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture to ensure a crispy skin.
- Butter Under Skin: Gently separate the skin from the breast meat without tearing it. Insert some butter and fresh herbs underneath the skin to enhance flavor and keep the meat moist.
- Stuff Hens: Spoon the cooled stuffing mixture into the cavity of each hen. Be careful not to overstuff. Tie the legs with kitchen twine to hold the stuffing securely inside during roasting.
- Season and Add Lemon: Rub the outside of each hen with olive oil, then season the skin generously with salt, pepper, and additional herbs. Place lemon slices on top or inside the cavity for a fresh citrus aroma.
- Roast the Hens: Place the hens on a rack in a roasting pan to allow air circulation around the birds. Roast in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. Baste occasionally with the pan juices to maintain moisture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat. Remove twine, carve, and serve.
Notes
- Use either bread cubes or cooked rice based on your preference for texture in the stuffing.
- Allow the stuffing to cool before placing it inside the hen to prevent bacterial growth and soggy skin.
- If kitchen twine is unavailable, you can secure the legs with toothpicks, but twine offers better support during roasting.
- Resting the hens after roasting is essential for juicy meat.
- Leftover stuffing can be cooked separately in a baking dish for a crispy texture.
