Rock Cornish Game Hens With Wild Rice Stuffin
Description
These Rock Cornish Game Hens offer a delightful balance of crispy, golden skin and succulent meat, enhanced by the earthy aroma of sage and the richness of butter. Stuffed with a hearty wild rice mixture, each bird is a self-contained feast, making serving effortless and elegant. The wild rice stuffing adds a nutty texture and depth of flavor that complements the delicate poultry perfectly. This dish is ideal for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or when you want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. The combination of traditional herbs and simple seasonings ensures the natural flavor of the game hens shines through, creating a comforting yet sophisticated centerpiece for your table.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
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Rinse the game hens under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels.
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Cut each hen in half lengthwise through the breast and back, or leave whole if preferred (adjust cooking time accordingly).
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In a small bowl, mix the softened margarine, dried sage, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Gently loosen the skin over the breast of each hen and rub half of the seasoned margarine mixture directly under the skin.
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Rub the remaining margarine mixture over the outside of the hens.
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Fill the cavity of each hen generously with the wild rice stuffing.
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Skewer the neck and abdominal cavity openings to keep the stuffing inside during cooking.
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Grease a shallow baking pan with butter or oil and arrange the hens in a single layer.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165ðF (74ðC) and juices run clear.
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Baste the hens with pan juices halfway through the cooking time for extra moisture and flavor.
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Let the hens rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 119.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 13.1g21%
- Saturated Fat 4.2g22%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1819.0mg76%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.6g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.2g1%
- Sugars 0.0g
- Protein 0.2g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best results, thaw frozen game hens completely in the refrigerator before preparing.
You can substitute butter for margarine for a richer flavor profile.
If using whole hens instead of halved, increase cooking time by 15-20 minutes.
Leftover stuffing can be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For added flavor, consider adding fresh thyme or rosemary to the butter mixture.
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165ðF (74ðC) in the thickest part of the thigh for food safety.