Roast Cornish Hens with Panzanella Stuffing Recipe

Roasted Cornish Hens with Panzanella Stuffing is a treat for the senses. This dish incorporates the savory, succulent flavors of the roasted hens with the crispy, hearty texture of the Panzanella stuffing. It's a meal that will transport you to the rustic countryside of Italy, while comforting and satisfying your cravings.

Photos of Roast Cornish Hens with Panzanella Stuffing Recipe

While most ingredients for this recipe are likely staples in your pantry, two that may require a trip to the supermarket are Cornish hens and a sourdough loaf. Cornish hens are miniature chickens that offer tender and flavorful meat. They're usually available in the poultry section of most supermarkets, but you may need to ask your butcher if you can't find them. For the sourdough loaf, opt for a bakery-fresh loaf if possible, which will provide the best flavor and texture for your Panzanella stuffing.

Ingredients for Roasted Cornish Hens with Panzanella Stuffing

Sourdough: A type of bread made from dough that has been fermented, which gives it a distinctive tangy flavor.

Cornish hens: A special breed of chicken that is smaller in size but packed with flavor.

Olive oil: Used for roasting the hens and making the stuffing, it adds a rich depth to the dish.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a mild heat to the dish.

Butter: Gives the hens a rich, golden crust.

Tomatoes: Adds freshness and a hint of acidity to the stuffing.

Garlic: Gives an aromatic edge to the stuffing.

Flat leaf parsley: Adds a fresh taste and vibrant color to the stuffing.

Dried rosemary: Infuses the dish with a warm, fragrant aroma.

One reader, Bernita Casper says:

This roasted Cornish hens with panzanella stuffing recipe is a game-changer! The hens turned out succulent and flavorful, and the panzanella stuffing was a delightful surprise. The combination of herbs and tomatoes was a burst of freshness. It's a must-try for anyone looking to impress with a delicious and unique dish.

Bernita Casper

Techniques Required for Roasted Cornish Hens With Panzanella Stuffing

How to roast Cornish hens with panzanella stuffing: This recipe provides step-by-step instructions on how to roast Cornish hens with a flavorful panzanella stuffing, creating a delicious and impressive dish.

How to toast bread cubes: Place the bread cubes in the oven and toast them until golden brown, about 6 minutes, to add a crunchy texture to the stuffing.

How to tie the Cornish hens: Twist the wings of the Cornish hens behind their backs and tie the legs together to ensure even cooking and a beautiful presentation.

How to prepare the panzanella stuffing: Toss the tomatoes with garlic, parsley, rosemary, salt, pepper, and toasted bread cubes, then bake until crisp and golden brown, creating a flavorful and aromatic stuffing.

How to carve the Cornish hens: After roasting, transfer the hens to a plate and let them rest in a warm spot for about 10 minutes. Then, cut the hens in half and serve with the stuffing and pan juices for an elegant presentation.

How To Make Roast Cornish Hens with Panzanella Stuffing

Sink your teeth into a juicy piece of roast cornish hens, served alongside a smoky tomato and bread stuffing, for a belly-filling dinner meal!

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 20 minutes

Total: 1 hour 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½lbsourdough,(1 loaf), or firm country bread
2cornish hens
3tbspolive oil
1tspsalt
fresh ground black pepper
1tbspbutter
2cupstomatoes,drained, diced, canned
3garlic cloves
6tbspflat leaf parsley,chopped
2tspdried rosemary

Instructions

Set the oven at 425 degrees F.
Put the bread cubes in the oven while it heats and toast them for about 6 minutes until golden brown.
Twist the wings of the Cornish hens behind their backs and tie the legs together.
Put the hens, breast-side up, in a roasting pan. Coat the hens with 1 tablespoon of the oil, then sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon of the salt and ⅛ teaspoon of pepper. Dot with the butter.
Roast the hens for about 40 minutes, until just done.
Oil a deep 1-quart baking dish.
In a large bowl, toss the tomatoes with the garlic, parsley, rosemary, the remaining ¾ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Add the toasted bread cubes and the remaining 2 tablespoons oil and stir well to combine.
Put the stuffing in the prepared baking dish and cover with a lid or with aluminum foil.
Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the cover, then bake for about 12 minutes longer, until the stuffing is crisp and golden brown.
When the hens are done, transfer them to a plate and leave to rest in a warm spot for about 10 minutes.
Pour off the fat from the roasting pan and add any accumulated juices from the hens.
Cut the hens in half and serve with the stuffing and the pan juices, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 628.41kcal
Fat: 38.26g
Saturated Fat: 10.14g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 18.75g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.41g
Carbohydrates: 34.42g
Fiber: 2.88g
Sugar: 4.66g
Protein: 36.04g
Cholesterol: 177.31mg
Sodium: 749.72mg
Calcium: 80.46mg
Potassium: 699.60mg
Iron: 4.45mg
Vitamin A: 134.53µg
Vitamin C: 19.70mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Roasted Cornish Hens With Panzanella Stuffing

When roasting Cornish hens, it's important to remember that they cook much faster than a regular chicken due to their smaller size. To ensure even cooking and a crispy skin, truss the hens by tying the legs together and tucking the wings under the body. This not only helps the bird cook evenly, but also makes for a more attractive presentation. Additionally, basting the hens with butter or oil during the roasting process will help achieve a beautifully browned and crispy skin.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the panzanella stuffing a day in advance to save time on the day of cooking. This will allow the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste of the dish.

Use store-bought breadcrumbs: To save time, consider using store-bought breadcrumbs instead of toasting and cubing the bread yourself. This can significantly cut down on prep time.

Multi-task: While the hens are roasting, use that time to prepare the panzanella stuffing. This will help streamline the cooking process and save time in the kitchen.

Invest in a good quality roasting pan: A high-quality roasting pan can help distribute heat evenly and prevent burning, saving time on cleaning and ensuring the hens cook perfectly.

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop, measure, and prepare all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process and save time during meal preparation.

Efficient organization: Keep all the necessary ingredients and tools within reach to create an efficient cooking environment, saving time and reducing stress during meal preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Roast Cornish Hens with Panzanella Stuffing Recipe

sourdough - Substitute with French bread: French bread has a similar texture and flavor profile to sourdough, making it a suitable substitute for the panzanella stuffing.
cornish hens - Substitute with small chicken: Small chickens can be used as a substitute for cornish hens, as they have a similar flavor and texture when roasted.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, adding a slightly different flavor profile to the dish.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, providing a milder and slightly different flavor to the dish.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee, or clarified butter, can be used as a substitute for regular butter, adding a rich and nutty flavor to the dish.
tomatoes - Substitute with bell peppers: Bell peppers can be used as a substitute for tomatoes, adding a sweet and crunchy element to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
flat leaf parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can be used as a substitute for flat leaf parsley, adding a fresh and citrusy flavor to the dish.
dried rosemary - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used as a substitute for dried rosemary, providing a similar earthy and aromatic flavor to the dish.

Presenting Roasted Cornish Hens With Panzanella Stuffing

Elevate the Cornish hens: Present the roasted Cornish hens on a bed of vibrant, fresh arugula to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Artfully arrange the Panzanella stuffing: Mold the panzanella stuffing into a neat, compact shape using a ring mold for a polished and professional presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with a generous amount of freshly chopped chives and thyme to add a burst of color and a hint of earthy freshness.
Drizzle with a balsamic reduction: Create an elegant design on the plate using a balsamic reduction to add a touch of sweetness and acidity to complement the flavors of the dish.
Use edible flowers for a delicate touch: Adorn the plate with delicate, colorful edible flowers such as pansies or nasturtiums to add a touch of elegance and a subtle floral note.
Incorporate microgreens for a refined finish: Sprinkle a handful of vibrant microgreens over the dish to add a delicate, fresh flavor and a visually appealing finishing touch.
Serve on artisanal dinnerware: Present the dish on elegant, handcrafted dinnerware to enhance the overall dining experience and showcase the attention to detail in the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Roasted Cornish Hens With Panzanella Stuffing

Oven: You will need an oven to roast the Cornish hens and to bake the panzanella stuffing.
Roasting pan: This is used to roast the Cornish hens in the oven.
Baking dish: A deep 1-quart baking dish is used to bake the panzanella stuffing.
Knife: A knife is essential for cutting and preparing the ingredients.
Cutting board: Use a cutting board to chop and prepare the ingredients for the recipe.
Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is needed to toss the tomatoes, garlic, parsley, rosemary, and bread cubes for the panzanella stuffing.
Saucepan: You may need a saucepan to pour off the fat from the roasting pan and to prepare the pan juices.
Tongs: Tongs are useful for transferring the hens to a plate and for serving.
Aluminum foil: This can be used to cover the baking dish while baking the panzanella stuffing.
Kitchen twine: Use kitchen twine to tie the legs of the Cornish hens together before roasting.

Storing and Freezing Roasted Cornish Hens With Panzanella Stuffing

To store leftover roasted cornish hens, let them cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
For the panzanella stuffing, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To maintain its texture, avoid mixing the stuffing with any pan juices or liquids from the hens.
If you want to freeze the cornish hens, wrap each half tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the hens in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
It's not recommended to freeze the panzanella stuffing as the bread and tomatoes will become soggy and lose their texture upon thawing. It's best to make the stuffing fresh when needed.
To reheat the cornish hens, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the hens in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to crisp up the skin.
If you have leftover stuffing, reheat it in a separate baking dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and slightly crispy on top. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may lose some of its texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Roasted Cornish Hens With Panzanella Stuffing

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover cornish hens and panzanella stuffing in an oven-safe dish, and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the hens are heated through and the stuffing is warm and crispy on top. This method helps to retain the moisture in the hens and prevents them from drying out.
If you prefer a crispier skin on your cornish hens, you can reheat them in the oven at a higher temperature of 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Place the hens on a baking sheet and loosely cover them with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to allow the skin to crisp up. Reheat the panzanella stuffing separately in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place the leftover cornish hens and panzanella stuffing in a microwave-safe dish, and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the hens are heated through and the stuffing is warm. Be careful not to overheat the hens, as they can quickly dry out in the microwave.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover cornish hens and achieve a crispy skin. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the hens in the basket. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the hens are heated through and the skin is crispy. Reheat the panzanella stuffing separately in the oven or microwave.
For a stovetop method, you can reheat the cornish hens and panzanella stuffing in a covered skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of chicken broth or water to the skillet to create steam and prevent the hens from drying out. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the hens are heated through and the stuffing is warm and crispy on the bottom. This method helps to retain the moisture in the hens and infuses them with additional flavor from the broth.

Interesting Fact About Roasted Cornish Hens With Panzanella Stuffing

The recipe for roasted cornish hens with panzanella stuffing is a delicious and rustic Italian-inspired dish that pairs well with a Chianti Classico. This meal is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. The combination of toasted bread cubes, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs creates a delicious stuffing that complements the roasted hens perfectly. It's a great way to elevate a classic dish and impress your dinner guests with minimal effort.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This roasted Cornish hens with Panzanella stuffing recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The use of simple, affordable ingredients like sourdough bread, tomatoes, and olive oil makes it a cost-effective choice for households. The dish's versatility and ability to serve a family of four make it a practical option. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $25. Overall Verdict: 9. The dish's affordability, combined with its delicious flavors and satisfying portions, makes it a winning choice for home cooks looking to create a memorable meal without breaking the bank.

Is Roasted Cornish Hens With Panzanella Stuffing Healthy or Unhealthy?

The roasted Cornish hens with panzanella stuffing recipe is a delicious and rustic Italian-influenced dish. However, from a nutritional standpoint, it has some areas that could be improved:

The recipe uses a significant amount of bread, which is high in carbohydrates and may not be suitable for those watching their carb intake
The use of butter and olive oil adds saturated and monounsaturated fats to the dish
The recipe does not include a significant source of vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and healthy meal

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of bread used in the stuffing or opt for a whole-grain variety to increase fiber content
Use a smaller amount of olive oil and replace the butter with a healthier alternative like avocado oil or olive oil spray
Incorporate more vegetables into the stuffing, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, to increase the nutrient density of the dish
Serve the Cornish hens with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal
Remove the skin from the Cornish hens to reduce the overall fat content of the dish

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors of this rustic Italian recipe while also supporting your health and well-being. The addition of more vegetables and the reduction of bread and fat will create a more balanced and nutritious meal that still satisfies your taste buds.

Editor's Thoughts on Roasted Cornish Hens With Panzanella Stuffing

The roasted Cornish hens with panzanella stuffing recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The succulent hens are perfectly seasoned and roasted to tender perfection, while the panzanella stuffing adds a delightful crunch and herbaceous freshness. The use of sourdough bread adds a rustic and hearty element to the dish, complementing the juicy tomatoes and aromatic garlic. The suggested wine pairing with a Chianti Classico is a brilliant choice, as it enhances the rustic, Italian-inspired flavors of the dish. This recipe is a wonderful option for a special dinner, offering a balance of comforting and sophisticated elements.

Enhance Your Roast Cornish Hens with Panzanella Stuffing Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a drizzle of balsamic glaze

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory carrots glazed with honey and a hint of thyme for a delightful side dish

Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed sweet potatoes topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg

Grilled Pineapple: Juicy pineapple slices grilled to perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness with a touch of caramelization

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Mango Coconut Panna Cotta: This creamy and tropical dessert is a delightful way to end a meal. The sweet mango and coconut flavors create a refreshing and indulgent treat.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Roasted Cornish Hens With Panzanella Stuffing

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Start your meal off with savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized appetizers are the perfect way to kick off your dinner party.

Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil: For a light and refreshing start to your meal, serve bruschetta with a classic combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil on crispy, toasted bread. This traditional Italian appetizer is sure to impress your guests.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and tangy flavors of a classic strawberry cheesecake, topped with a luscious strawberry compote and fresh slices of strawberries for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Why trust this Roast Cornish Hens with Panzanella Stuffing Recipe:

This recipe for roasted Cornish hens with panzanella stuffing is a testament to the culinary expertise and attention to detail. The use of sourdough bread adds a delightful texture, while the combination of tomatoes, garlic, and rosemary infuses the dish with robust flavors. The method of roasting the hens ensures succulent and tender meat, while the Chianti Classico wine recommendation further enhances the dining experience. Trust in the harmonious blend of ingredients and meticulous cooking instructions to create a memorable and satisfying meal.

Share your thoughts on this Roast Cornish Hens with Panzanella Stuffing recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

What is the best way to tie the legs of the Cornish hens?

To tie the legs of the Cornish hens, simply cross the legs and use kitchen twine to tie them together. This helps the hens cook evenly and keeps the stuffing secure inside.

Can I use a different type of bread for the panzanella stuffing?

Yes, you can use different types of bread for the panzanella stuffing. While sourdough adds a delicious tangy flavor, you can also use rustic Italian bread, ciabatta, or even whole grain bread for a different texture and taste.

How do I know when the Cornish hens are done roasting?

You can check the doneness of the Cornish hens by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, and when it reaches 165°F, the hens are ready. Alternatively, pierce the hens between the leg and breast; if the juices run clear, they are done.

Can I prepare the panzanella stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the panzanella stuffing ahead of time. Simply assemble the ingredients, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake. This makes it convenient for meal prep or entertaining.

What can I serve as a side dish with the roasted Cornish hens and panzanella stuffing?

A simple green vegetable, such as steamed asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, or sautéed spinach, pairs beautifully with the roasted Cornish hens and panzanella stuffing. The vibrant colors and flavors of the vegetables complement the dish perfectly.