Cornish Game Hens With Apricot Rice Stuffing: A Taste of Autumn

My grandmother, bless her heart, was a stickler for traditions, especially when it came to Thanksgiving. While the turkey reigned supreme, it was her Cornish game hens with apricot rice stuffing that truly captured my imagination. As a child, I was always fascinated by these miniature birds, each a perfect serving of holiday goodness. The sweet aroma of apricots mingling with savory rice and herbs, baking in the oven, still instantly transports me back to her cozy kitchen, filled with love and laughter. It’s a dish that embodies comfort, elegance, and the warmth of family gatherings.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 4 Cornish Game Hens
• Dietary Type: Not specified (contains meat and dairy)

Ingredients

• 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
• ¾ cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 6 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 cup cooked wild rice
• ½ cup chopped dried apricots
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 4 (24 ounce) Cornish hens (24 oz each)
• ½ cup apricot preserves (no sugar added)
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Shallow roasting pan
• Rack
• Small saucepan
• Kitchen string
• Meat thermometer

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This ensures even cooking and prevents the hens from drying out.

2. Prepare the stuffing. In a large skillet, saute the mushrooms, pecans, and onion in 4 tablespoons of butter until tender. This step is crucial for developing the rich, savory base of the stuffing. Don’t rush it; let the vegetables soften and caramelize slightly for optimal flavor.

3. Combine the stuffing ingredients. Stir in the cooked wild rice, chopped dried apricots, minced fresh parsley, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper into the skillet. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed. The cayenne adds a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness of the apricots.

4. Stuff the Cornish hens. Spoon about ¾ cup of the rice mixture into each hen. Don’t overstuff them, as the rice will expand during cooking.

5. Secure the hens. Tie the legs of each hen together with kitchen string. This helps them maintain their shape during roasting and ensures even cooking.

6. Prepare for roasting. Place the hens, breast side up, on a rack in a shallow roasting pan. The rack allows for better air circulation, resulting in crispier skin.

7. Brush with butter. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and brush it generously over the hens. This will help them brown beautifully and keep them moist.

8. Roast the hens. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, or until a meat thermometer reads 180 degrees F (82 degrees C) for the hens and 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) for the stuffing. The internal temperature is the most reliable indicator of doneness. Begin checking the internal temperature at the earlier time to avoid overcooking.

9. Prepare the apricot glaze. While the hens are roasting, in a small saucepan, warm the apricot preserves and white vinegar. The vinegar adds a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness of the preserves.

10. Glaze and finish roasting. Spoon the apricot glaze over the hens. Bake for 15 minutes longer. The glaze will create a beautiful, glossy finish and infuse the hens with a sweet and tangy flavor.

11. Rest before serving. Let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Brining: For extra moist hens, consider brining them for a few hours before cooking. A simple brine of salt, sugar, and water can make a significant difference.
• Basting: Baste the hens with pan juices every 30 minutes during roasting to keep them moist and promote even browning.
• Aromatic Herbs: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the stuffing for an extra layer of flavor.
• Crispy Skin: For extra crispy skin, pat the hens dry with paper towels before brushing with butter.
• Make-Ahead: The stuffing can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and stuff the hens just before roasting.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these Cornish game hens immediately after roasting for the best flavor and texture. Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs and a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a complete meal. Leftover hens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The stuffing can also be stored separately and reheated. For longer storage, the cooked hens can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	1274.5 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	495 g	39%
Total Fat	55 g	84%
Saturated Fat	18 g	90%
Cholesterol	665 mg	221%
Sodium	897.2 mg	37%
Total Carbohydrate	50.3 g	16%
Dietary Fiber	4.5 g	18%
Sugars	25.7 g	102%
Protein	141.7 g	283%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Ensure the wild rice is certified gluten-free and omit the parsley if there is a concern with cross-contamination.
• Fruit Variations: Substitute the dried apricots with dried cranberries or cherries for a different flavor profile.
• Nut Alternatives: If you have a nut allergy, replace the pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs in the stuffing, such as sage, thyme, or rosemary.
• Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the apricot glaze for a brighter flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of rice for the stuffing?
A: While wild rice adds a unique flavor and texture, you can substitute it with brown rice or long-grain rice if preferred. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How do I know when the Cornish hens are fully cooked?
A: The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should reach 180 degrees F (82 degrees C) for the hen and 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) for the stuffing.

Q: Can I prepare the Cornish hens ahead of time?
A: You can stuff the hens a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated. However, it’s best to roast them just before serving for optimal quality.

Q: What if I don’t have apricot preserves?
A: You can substitute with peach or orange preserves. You can also make a simple glaze by simmering chopped apricots with a little water and vinegar.

Q: Can I freeze leftover stuffed Cornish hens?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Cornish game hens with apricot rice stuffing is a delightful twist on classic holiday fare. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, combined with the elegance of individual portions, makes it a memorable dish for any occasion. I encourage you to try it and experience the magic for yourself. Feel free to adjust the recipe to your liking and share your creations with loved ones. Pair these hens with a crisp white wine or a light-bodied red for a truly unforgettable meal. Enjoy!