Stuffed Cornish Hen

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is ideal when you want something special but not overly complicated. Cornish hens are naturally tender and cook quickly compared to larger poultry, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions. The homemade stuffing elevates the dish with buttery, savory flavors that balance beautifully with the juicy hen. Each serving feels like a personal mini-roast, making it both impressive and practical.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 Cornish game hen, thawed and giblets removed
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or herb of choice)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil, for brushing

Homemade Classic Stuffing:
1/2 cup (4 ounces or 8 tablespoons) unsalted butter
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
4 slices white bread, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the stuffing: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
3. Add bread cubes and 1/4 teaspoon salt, stirring to coat in the buttery mixture. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Pat the Cornish hen dry with paper towels. Season the inside with thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff the cavity loosely with the prepared bread mixture.
6. Brush the outside of the hen with olive oil and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
7. Place the hen in a roasting pan or baking dish.
8. Roast for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the hen reaches 165°F (74°C).
9. Let the hen rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 1–2 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Swap thyme for rosemary, sage, or parsley.
• Add dried cranberries or chopped apples to the stuffing for sweetness.
• Mix in sausage or mushrooms for a heartier stuffing.
• Brush with melted butter instead of olive oil for a richer flavor.
• Roast multiple hens for a festive dinner party, giving each guest their own serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 325°F (163°C) oven until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes. For best results, remove the stuffing and reheat it separately so it doesn’t dry out. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of both the hen and stuffing can change.

FAQs

What is a Cornish hen?

A Cornish hen is a small breed of chicken, usually weighing 1–2 pounds, known for its tender meat and quick cooking time.

Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the stuffing up to a day ahead and refrigerate it. Stuff the hen just before roasting.

Do I have to stuff the hen?

No, you can roast the hen without stuffing and bake the stuffing separately in a casserole dish.

How do I know when the hen is cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the meat, typically the thigh.

Can I roast more than one hen at once?

Yes, just adjust the roasting pan size. Cooking time remains about the same as long as the hens aren’t overcrowded.

Can I use store-bought stuffing?

Yes, pre-made stuffing can be used for convenience.

Should I truss the hen?

Trussing (tying the legs together) helps the bird cook evenly and hold in the stuffing, but it’s optional.

What side dishes go well with stuffed Cornish hen?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a light salad pair beautifully.

Can I use frozen bread for the stuffing?

Yes, just thaw before cubing and toasting it for best texture.

How do I keep the hen skin crispy?

Pat the hen dry before brushing with olive oil, and roast uncovered to allow the skin to brown.

Conclusion

Stuffed Cornish Hen is a flavorful and elegant dish that turns a simple dinner into something memorable. With its tender roasted meat and buttery homemade stuffing, it’s ideal for holidays, romantic dinners, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort. Each serving is perfectly portioned, making this recipe both practical and delightful.

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