Cornish Hens with Apple-Cranberry Rice Stuffing

Introduction

There’s something about Cornish hens that makes me feel like a chef in my own kitchen, even on the busiest weeknights. They’re like the little siblings of roast chickens—adorable, elegant, and packed with flavor. Pair them with a savory apple-cranberry rice stuffing, and you’ve got yourself a dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to whip up. Trust me, you’re going to want to add this recipe to your regular rotation.

I first discovered this gem during a family gathering a few years back. My aunt had prepared these delightful hens, and as soon as I took my first bite, I was hooked. The sweet-tartness of the cranberries, the crunch of the apples, and the comforting warmth of the spices came together to create a dish that felt like a hug in food form. Since then, it’s become a staple in my kitchen for everything from holiday feasts to casual dinners with friends. And let me tell you, there’s something incredibly satisfying about serving up a dish that looks so elegant yet is easy enough to make.

So, whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to impress your family with something new, these Cornish hens with apple-cranberry rice stuffing are sure to do the trick. Grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to pull off this dish! The prep is straightforward, and the hands-on time is minimal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the bite-sized hens, and the sweet stuffing makes it appealing for all ages.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of apples, cranberries, and spices creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and refreshing. Every bite is an adventure!
• Perfect Presentation: These little birds look stunning on the dinner table, making them a great choice for entertaining or festive occasions.

Imagine cutting into the tender meat of the Cornish hen, the stuffing spilling out with a colorful medley of apples and cranberries. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, one that you’ll want to share with everyone around your table.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (prep time: 30 minutes; cook time: 1 hour)
• Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
• Nutrition Facts: Calories per serving: 450, Protein: 30g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 20g.

Ingredients

• 4 Cornish hens (about 1 to 1.5 pounds each): These little birds are perfect for individual servings and cook evenly.
• 1 cup long-grain rice: Acts as the base of our stuffing, providing a hearty texture.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Adds depth of flavor to the rice and stuffing.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Offers a savory sweetness that complements the stuffing beautifully.
• 1 apple, diced (I love using Granny Smith for a tart bite): Provides a nice crunch and balances the sweetness of the cranberries.
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries: These bring a delightful tartness that elevates the dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb that adds an earthy flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• 1/4 cup butter: For sautéing the onions and adding richness to the stuffing.
• Olive oil (for drizzling): Helps crisp up the skin of the hens in the oven.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. The combination of savory and sweet makes each bite memorable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

1. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Stir in 1 cup of long-grain rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and fluffy.

• Tip: You can also use leftover rice if you have any on hand—just skip to the next step!

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

2. Sauté the Onions: While the rice is cooking, melt 1/4 cup of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

• Tip: Don’t rush this step; the sweetness of the onions adds so much flavor to the stuffing!

2. Combine Ingredients: Once the onions are done, stir in the diced apple, dried cranberries, and cooked rice. Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside to cool slightly.

• Tip: Feel free to add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch!

Step 3: Prep the Cornish Hens

4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Season the Hens: Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil over the skin, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Rub the oil and seasonings all over for even flavor.

• Tip: This is a great time to get the kids involved—they can help with the seasoning!

Step 4: Stuff the Hens

6. Stuff the Hens: Carefully spoon the apple-cranberry rice mixture into the cavity of each hen. Don’t overstuff them; they need some space to cook evenly.

• Tip: Use kitchen twine to tie the legs together if you want a more polished look.

Step 5: Bake

7. Roast the Hens: Place the stuffed hens on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown.

• Tip: If the skin isn’t as crispy as you like, broil them for the last 3-5 minutes, but keep a close eye on them!

Step 6: Rest and Serve

8. Let Them Rest: Once done, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat juicy.

• Tip: While they’re resting, you can whip up a simple side salad or steam some veggies.

How to Serve

• Serve each Cornish hen on a plate, letting the stuffing spill out a little for a rustic touch.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color.
• Pair with roasted vegetables or a light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance out the meal.

Additional Tips

1. Prep Ahead: You can make the stuffing a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just stuff the hens right before baking.
2. Use a Meat Thermometer: This is a foolproof way to ensure your hens are perfectly cooked without drying them out.
3. Change Up the Stuffing: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Swap in other dried fruits or add in some sausage for a heartier stuffing.
4. Leftover Use: If you have any leftover stuffing, you can bake it in a small dish alongside the hens for extra deliciousness.
5. Keep It Moist: Basting the hens with their juices halfway through cooking helps keep the meat moist and flavorful.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use a mix of quinoa and rice for a delightful vegetarian stuffing.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to give your dish a unique twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the stuffing for a fun kick.
• Different Fruits: Try using pears or apricots in place of apples for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Roasted sweet potatoes or a simple garlic bread pair beautifully with these hens.
• Beverages: A light sparkling water or herbal tea complements the flavors nicely. If you want something stronger, a non-alcoholic mulled cider would be delightful!
• For Kids: Serve the hens with buttered noodles or mac and cheese to make it appealing for younger eaters.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover Cornish hens can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you have extra cooked hens, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Reheating Tips: To keep the meat juicy, cover with foil while reheating and add a splash of broth to prevent drying out.

Special Equipment

• Roasting Pan: A good roasting pan is essential for even cooking.
• Meat Thermometer: This will help ensure your hens are cooked perfectly every time.
• Basting Brush: If you decide to baste your hens, a brush will help distribute the juices evenly.

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen Cornish hens?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking.

What if I can’t find Cornish hens?
You can use small chickens or game hens as an alternative; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make the stuffing with different rice?
Yes! Feel free to use wild rice or brown rice for a nuttier flavor.

How do I know when the hens are done?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I cook this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the hens and prepare the stuffing, then place them in the slow cooker with a bit of broth. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Conclusion

I can’t wait for you to try these Cornish hens with apple-cranberry rice stuffing! They’re perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself to a comforting meal at home. Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your delicious creations!

Now go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of making this lovely dish. You’ve got this!

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