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Cornish game hens are small birds, often weighing about two pounds. They are not baby chickens; they are a distinct breed. Their size makes them ideal for individual servings. You can think of them as the perfect portion for one person.

Cornish Game Hens

Discover the delicious world of Cornish game hens and elevate your cooking with these easy recipes! Perfectly sized for individual servings, these small birds offer rich flavor and tender meat, making them ideal for any occasion. From oven roasting to grilling and creative stuffing ideas, you’ll find the best cooking methods and tasty side dish pairings. Ready to impress your guests or create a cozy dinner? Click through to explore all the flavorful recipes!
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Ingredients
  

2 Cornish game hens, cleaned and patted dry

1 cup cooked quinoa

1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary)

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup toasted pecans, chopped

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon paprika

Optional: lemon wedges and fresh herbs for garnishing

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.

      In a bowl, combine the sautéed onions and garlic with cooked quinoa, fresh herbs, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans. Drizzle with lemon juice and remaining olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well to combine.

        Stuff each Cornish game hen generously with the quinoa herb mixture, ensuring they are well packed but not overstuffed. Tie the legs of the hens together with kitchen twine to hold the stuffing in place and create a nice shape.

          Place the hens breast-side up in a roasting pan. Rub the skin with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika for color.

            Roast the hens in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown. Baste occasionally with the drippings for added moisture.

              Remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes before carving.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 2

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve each stuffed hen on a warm plate, garnished with lemon wedges and a few sprigs of fresh herbs for an elegant touch.