There’s something truly special about preparing Cornish game hens that makes any meal feel like a celebration. The moment those golden birds come out of the oven, fragrant with herbs and perfectly roasted, you know you’re in for a treat. What takes this dish to the next level is the wild rice and dried cherry stuffing—a delightful mix of earthy grains and sweet, tart cherries that add a surprising pop of flavor and texture. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply craving a comforting homemade meal, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between elegance and ease. Trust me, once you try these Cornish game hens with wild rice and dried cherry stuffing, your usual dinner routine will never feel the same again.
Why choose Cornish Game Hens with Wild Rice?
Simplicity meets sophistication: This recipe is surprisingly easy, perfect for home cooks wanting gourmet results without stress. Juicy, tender hens: Roasting locks in moisture, delivering flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth meat. Wild rice and dried cherry stuffing: A unique combo that balances nutty, earthy flavors with a delightful fruity tang. Versatile for any occasion: Ideal for cozy dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort. A feast for the senses: The aroma of herbs and the vibrant colors make every bite a memorable experience.
Cornish Game Hens Ingredients
For the Cornish Game Hens
- Cornish game hens (2) – Choose hens around 1 to 1.5 pounds each for even roasting and juicy results.
- Olive oil – Use to rub the hens, helping crisp the skin while locking in moisture.
- Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage) – Aromatic herbs that infuse the hens with savory, fragrant flavor.
- Garlic cloves – Crush and stuff inside for a subtle pungent depth in every bite.
- Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the birds.
For the Wild Rice and Dried Cherry Stuffing
- Wild rice blend – Nutty, chewy grains that form the hearty base of this unique stuffing.
- Dried cherries – Add bursts of sweet-tart flavor that complement the rice perfectly.
- Onion (finely chopped) – Sauté to bring sweetness and soften the texture of the stuffing.
- Celery (diced) – Adds crunch and freshness to balance the richness.
- Chicken broth – Use to cook the rice and keep the stuffing moist and flavorful.
- Butter – Stir in for richness and a silky mouthfeel that ties all ingredients together.
Optional Garnish & Extras
- Fresh parsley – Sprinkle chopped on top for vibrant color and mild herbaceous notes.
- Lemon zest – Grate a little over the hens before roasting to add bright citrus aroma to the dish.
Pro tip: This Cornish Game Hens with Wild Rice and Dried Cherry Stuffing recipe shines when fresh, quality ingredients are used—guaranteeing a memorable homemade meal your family and guests will adore.
How to Make Cornish Game Hens
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the rack in the center. This high heat ensures crispy, golden skin and seals in moisture for tender, juicy meat.
- For the Wild Rice and Dried Cherry Stuffing:
- Cook rice: Bring chicken broth to a boil, add wild rice blend, simmer 45 minutes until grains are tender and liquid is fully absorbed.
- Mix stuffing: In a bowl, stir together cooked wild rice blend, dried cherries, sautéed onion and celery, butter, and seasonings for Cornish Game Hens with Wild Rice and Dried Cherry Stuffing.
- Prepare hens: Pat each hen dry, then rub the cavity and skin with olive oil. Generously season with fresh thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and nestle crushed garlic cloves inside for deep flavor.
- Stuff hens: Use a small spoon to fill each hen’s cavity with the warm wild rice and dried cherry stuffing. Pack gently for even distribution, reserving any extra for a side dish.
- Roast hens: Arrange hens breast-side up on a rack set inside a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until skin is golden brown and an instant-read thermometer registers 165°F.
- Rest: Tent the roasted hens loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for 10 minutes. This crucial step lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice of meat stays moist and flavorful.
Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cornish Game Hens Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Cornish game hens and make this dish uniquely yours!
- Herb Infusion: Swap fresh herbs to customize flavors—consider basil or oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
- Stuffing Swaps: Use quinoa or couscous instead of wild rice for different textures; each brings its own character to the table.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the stuffing for an extra layer of crunch and flavor. The delightful nuttiness will surprise your palate!
- Fruit Additions: Toss in diced apples or apricots with the dried cherries for a refreshing sweetness that complements your savory stuffing.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to enhance the warmth and depth of flavor, elevating your dish to the next level.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate diced carrots or bell peppers into the stuffing for a colorful and nutritious upgrade. This not only enhances flavor but also adds vibrant hues to your dish!
- Citrus Zing: Mingle some fresh orange zest into the stuffing for a bright, tangy twist that pairs beautifully with rich poultry.
- Glaze Variety: Brush the skin with a honey-balsamic glaze before roasting for a sweet caramelized finish that is irresistibly delicious.
Expert Tips for Cornish Game Hens with Wild Rice and Dried Cherry Stuffing
- Choose properly sized hens: Select Cornish game hens weighing 1 to 1.5 pounds for even cooking and juicy, tender meat.
- Dry skin before roasting: Pat the hens completely dry to help the olive oil crisp the skin beautifully during roasting.
- Don’t overstuff: Fill the hens gently with wild rice and dried cherry stuffing to ensure even cooking and avoid bursting.
- Use an instant-read thermometer: Check for 165°F in the thickest part to guarantee perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat hens without drying them out.
- Rest before serving: Tent hens after roasting to let juices redistribute, locking in all that homemade flavor and moisture.
Make Ahead Options
These Cornish Game Hens with Wild Rice and Dried Cherry Stuffing are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the wild rice and dried cherry stuffing up to 24 hours in advance by cooking the rice and mixing it with the sautéed onions, celery, and seasonings. Simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and texture. On the day you plan to serve, stuff the prepared hens and roast them directly from the refrigerator. This not only ensures you have a delicious, stress-free dinner but also means that your hens will be just as juicy and flavorful as if you made them from scratch that day!
What to Serve with Cornish Game Hens with Wild Rice and Dried Cherry Stuffing?
Creating a delightful meal around Cornish game hens elevates your dinner table, making every bite a celebration.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery potatoes that are perfect for soaking up the savory juices from the hens.
- Seasonal Roasted Vegetables: A colorful assortment of roasted veggies brings sweet and earthy notes, complementing the dish beautifully.
- Tangy Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds brightness to the meal and balances the rich stuffing.
Pairing these elements transforms your table into a lush, inviting feast full of contrasting textures and flavors.
- Cranberry Sauce: This tart-sweet sauce cuts through the richness of the hens, echoing the cherry in the stuffing and enhancing the overall flavor experience.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots offer a delightful crunch and natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory profile of the dish.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this crisp white wine accentuates the herbs and fruit in your recipe, making every sip a refreshing companion.
Indulge in this medley and watch your guests savor each moment!
How to Store and Freeze Cornish Game Hens
Fridge: Keep leftover Cornish game hens in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve their juicy flavor and keeps them safe to eat.
Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen hens will maintain their quality for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a splash of broth to keep the meat moist.
Storing Stuffing: Any leftover wild rice and dried cherry stuffing can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, or frozen for up to 2 months in a sealed container.
Easy Juicy Cornish Game Hens with Wild Rice & Cherry Stuffing Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best Cornish game hens for this recipe?
Choose hens weighing between 1 and 1.5 pounds each for even roasting and juicy results. Look for firm, plump birds with smooth skin and no dark spots or discoloration. Freshness is key to flavorful, tender meat.
Can I store leftover Cornish game hens and stuffing?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge—hens for up to 3 days and the wild rice and cherry stuffing for about 4 days. Make sure to cool them completely before refrigerating to keep flavors fresh and safe.
Is it possible to freeze the cooked hens and stuffing? How?
Very! Wrap individual portions of the hens tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Stuffing can also be frozen in sealed containers for up to 2 months. To thaw, move to the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if the hens come out dry after roasting?
Don’t worry! Next time, try these tips: pat the hens completely dry before oiling for better crispness, avoid overcooking by using an instant-read thermometer (target 165°F internal temperature), and always let them rest tented with foil for about 10 minutes. Adding a splash of broth when reheating also helps keep the meat moist.
Are Cornish game hens with wild rice and dried cherry stuffing safe for pets or people with allergies?
This recipe contains common allergens like butter and chicken broth, and dried cherries add a fruity sweetness not suitable for some pets. Always avoid feeding pets human food unless vet-approved, and consult ingredient labels carefully if you have allergies—consider substituting dairy or using low-sodium broth if necessary.
Easy Juicy Cornish Game Hens with Wild Rice & Cherry Stuffing
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bring chicken broth to a boil. Add wild rice blend, simmer for 45 minutes until tender.
- Stir together cooked wild rice blend, dried cherries, sautéed onion and celery, butter, and seasonings.
- Pat each hen dry and rub with olive oil, then season with herbs, salt, and pepper; stuff crushed garlic inside.
- Fill each hen's cavity with warm stuffing, reserving extra for a side dish.
- Arrange hens breast-side up in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes until skin is golden brown and thermometer reads 165°F.
- Tent with foil and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
