How To Bake Stuffed Cornish Hens

Topics:
How To Bake Stuffed Cornish Hens

Delicious and Easy: Baking Stuffed Cornish Hens

Are you looking for a special dish to impress your guests at your next dinner party? Look no further than stuffed Cornish hens. These small birds are perfect for individual servings and make for an elegant and delicious meal. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to bake stuffed Cornish hens, so you can create a memorable dining experience for your friends and family.

Ingredients:

  • 4 Cornish hens
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup chopped onions
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Start by preparing the stuffing. In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, onions, celery, mushrooms, garlic, melted butter, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  3. Next, prepare the Cornish hens by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels.
  4. Stuff the hens with the prepared stuffing, making sure to pack it in tightly.
  5. Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan, breast side up.
  6. Brush the hens with a little melted butter and season with additional salt and pepper, if desired.
  7. Roast the hens in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
  8. Once the hens are cooked through, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of baking stuffed Cornish hens, it’s time to get creative with your presentation. Serve the hens with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Your guests will be impressed by the beautiful presentation and delicious flavors of this elegant dish.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner routine, stuffed Cornish hens are a fantastic option. With a little preparation and a hot oven, you can create a memorable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress with your newfound culinary skills!

Want to share your experience with baking stuffed Cornish hens or have any tips to perfect this dish? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum section!
FAQ:
What ingredients do I need to bake stuffed Cornish hens?
To bake stuffed Cornish hens, you will need Cornish hens, butter, onion, celery, garlic, bread crumbs, herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and sage), salt, pepper, and chicken broth.
How do I prepare the stuffing for Cornish hens?
To prepare the stuffing, start by sautéing finely chopped onion, celery, and garlic in butter until they are soft. Then, mix in bread crumbs, herbs, salt, and pepper. Add chicken broth gradually until the mixture is moist but not soggy.
What is the best way to stuff the Cornish hens?
To stuff the Cornish hens, spoon the prepared stuffing into the cavities of the hens, being careful not to overstuff them. Secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the stuffing inside during baking.
How should I season the Cornish hens before baking?
Before baking, season the Cornish hens with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices of your choice. You can also rub the hens with butter or olive oil to help them brown and stay moist during baking.
What is the recommended baking time and temperature for stuffed Cornish hens?
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed Cornish hens in a roasting pan and bake for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. Baste the hens with pan juices occasionally during baking to keep them moist.
How can I ensure the Cornish hens are cooked thoroughly?
To ensure the Cornish hens are cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone. If the temperature reads 165°F (74°C), the hens are ready to be removed from the oven. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Was this page helpful?