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Cornish Hens with Apple-Cranberry Rice Stuffing

Delicious Cornish Hens with Apple-Cranberry Rice Stuffing

This Cornish Hens with Apple-Cranberry Rice Stuffing recipe transforms an ordinary dinner into an elegant experience.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4 hens
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Hens
  • 2 hens Cornish Hens Substitution: Use small chickens or game hens if necessary.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
For the Stuffing
  • 1 cup Rice Substitution: Wild rice or brown rice can be used.
  • 1 medium Apple Firm fruits like pears can also work well.
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries Substitution: Try raisins or chopped dried apricots.
  • 1 medium Onion Substitution: Shallots can be a milder alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Butter Note: Olive oil is a healthier substitute if desired.
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme Substitution: Dried sage or rosemary can also be used.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • roasting pan
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Melt 1/4 cup of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
  2. Stir in diced apple and dried cranberries, mix with sautéed onions. Add cooked rice, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  3. Preheat oven to 375°F. Rinse hens under cold water, pat dry, drizzle olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Carefully fill each Cornish hen with the stuffing, securing openings with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
  5. Place stuffed hens in a roasting pan, breast side up, and roast for approximately 1 hour or until internal temperature is 165°F.
  6. Remove from oven, allow to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving alongside your favorite sides.

Nutrition

Serving: 1henCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Serve alongside a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

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