Grilled Cornish Game Hens & Eggplant Stuffing

The aroma of roasting eggplant and savory herbs always takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. Every autumn, as the leaves began to turn, she would prepare a feast featuring a roasted bird stuffed with the most incredible eggplant dressing. The earthy sweetness of the eggplant, paired with the delicate flavor of the bird, was a symphony of flavors that defined the season for me. Now, I’ve put my own twist on that classic comfort food, grilling Cornish game hens to smoky perfection and pairing them with her timeless stuffing recipe.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free breadcrumbs)

Ingredients

• 24 ounces Cornish hens
• 4 cups breadcrumbs
• 1 medium eggplant
• 1 pinch sage
• 1 pinch gumbo file
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
• 1 pinch cracked black pepper
• 4 cups unsalted chicken stock
• 1 pinch parsley flakes
• 1 pinch pepper
• 1 pinch salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Shallow baking pan
• Grill

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the Cornish hens. Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, split each hen in half by cutting along the backbone. Remove the backbone and discard (or save for making stock).

2. Season both sides of the halved hens generously with black pepper and salt. Set the hens aside while you prepare the stuffing.

3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken stock to prevent the butter from burning.

4. Chop the celery, eggplant, onion, and bell pepper into a small dice. Mince the garlic. Add all the chopped vegetables to the pot.

5. Season the vegetables with sage, salt, pepper, and gumbo file. Stir well to combine.

6. Smother the ingredients, cooking them until the vegetables are softened and translucent, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. Add the breadcrumbs and chicken stock to the pot. Mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened.

8. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a shallow baking pan. Spread it out evenly.

9. Bake the stuffing in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 30 minutes, or until it is heated through and lightly browned on top.

10. While the stuffing is baking, prepare your grill. Preheat it to medium-high heat.

11. Once the stuffing is almost done, grill the halved Cornish hens on the preheated grill. Brush them with melted butter frequently as they cook to keep them moist and help them develop a beautiful golden-brown color.

12. Grill the hens for approximately 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here! Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, being careful not to touch the bone.

13. Remove the hens from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce to the melted butter used for brushing the hens during grilling. This will give them a subtle kick.
• To ensure the stuffing stays moist, you can cover the baking pan with foil during the first half of the baking time. Remove the foil for the last 15 minutes to allow the top to brown.
• If you’re short on time, you can prepare the stuffing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a splash more chicken stock before baking if it seems dry.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill when cooking the hens. This will lower the temperature and result in uneven cooking. If necessary, cook them in batches.
• If you prefer a crispier skin, finish the hens under the broiler for a minute or two, but watch them carefully to prevent burning.
• The gumbo file adds a unique earthy flavor to the dressing but can be omitted if it’s not available.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the grilled Cornish game hens immediately, accompanied by the warm eggplant stuffing. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. A side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, would complement the dish perfectly.

Leftover Cornish hens and stuffing can be stored in the refrigerator in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days. To reheat the hens, wrap them in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. The stuffing can be reheated in the oven or microwave. For best results, add a tablespoon or two of chicken stock to the stuffing before reheating to prevent it from drying out. Freezing is not recommended as this can affect the texture of the breadcrumbs.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	769 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	18.95g	29%
Saturated Fat	6.9g	35%
Cholesterol	170mg	57%
Sodium	1078mg	45%
Total Carbohydrate	93.7g	31%
Dietary Fiber	10.8g	43%
Sugars	12.5g	N/A
Protein	55.5g	111%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Oyster Stuffing: As the original recipe suggests, you can substitute the eggplant with oysters for a completely different flavor profile. Just be sure to omit the salt from the stuffing, as oysters are naturally salty.
• Wild Mushroom Stuffing: Another fantastic substitution for the eggplant is a medley of wild mushrooms, such as shiitake, cremini, and oyster mushrooms. Sauté them with the other vegetables for an earthy and flavorful stuffing.
• Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your chicken stock is also gluten-free.
• Spicier Hens: For a spicier kick, you can add a generous sprinkle of Creole seasoning to the hens before grilling.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs in the stuffing. Thyme, rosemary, or marjoram would all be delicious additions.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of bread for the breadcrumbs?
A: Yes, you can use any type of bread you like, such as sourdough, French bread, or even cornbread. Just be sure to dry it out slightly before grinding it into breadcrumbs.

Q: How can I tell when the Cornish hens are done?
A: The best way to ensure the hens are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, being careful not to touch the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I make the stuffing ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a splash more chicken stock before baking if it seems dry.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. A simple green salad would also be a great addition.

Q: Can I use chicken instead of Cornish hens?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken for Cornish hens. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts or thighs will take longer to cook than Cornish hens.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Grilled Cornish Game Hens with Eggplant Stuffing is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight meal. The smoky flavor of the grilled hens, combined with the savory eggplant stuffing, creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions to create a dish that is uniquely your own. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback – and perhaps pair it with a crisp, dry Riesling to elevate the experience even further!