When the holiday season rolls around, nothing brings family and friends together quite like a beautifully roasted meal. Picture this: a platter of Glazed Cornish Hens with Pecan-Rice Stuffing gracing your dining table, their golden brown skin glistening under the warm glow of candlelight. With each tender bite, you uncover the delightful crunch of toasted pecans and the sweetness of golden raisins nestled within the savory rice, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
This dish isn’t just about the taste; it’s about the memories made around the table. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying an intimate dinner, these glazed hens will steal the spotlight. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to prepare, making them a stress-free option for busy cooks. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create a meal that will be a centerpiece of joy and flavor for your special occasions!
Why are Glazed Cornish Hens with Pecan-Rice Stuffing special?
Festive Appeal: These hens are an eye-catching centerpiece that evokes the warmth of holiday gatherings.
Unique Flavor Combo: The sweet glaze paired with savory pecan-rice stuffing brings a delightful balance to your palate.
Effortless Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can impress guests with minimal effort.
Versatile Dish: Ideal for any occasion, these hens can easily accommodate different dietary preferences, making them perfect for gatherings.
Memorable Moments: Serving this dish creates lasting memories around the table, fostering connection and joy among loved ones.
Glazed Cornish Hens with Pecan-Rice Stuffing Ingredients
For the Hens
- Cornish game hens – 8 hens (20-24 ounces each) ensure tender meat when roasted evenly.
- Butter – 1/4 cup, softened; adds richness and helps achieve that crispy, golden skin.
For the Glaze
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon; enhances flavor, opt for kosher salt for a more consistent seasoning.
- Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon; freshly ground black pepper elevates the taste.
- Unsweetened apple juice – 2 cups; it brings sweetness and moisture to the glaze.
- Honey – 1 tablespoon; sweetens the glaze perfectly, or use maple syrup for a unique twist.
- Dijon mustard – 1 tablespoon; introduces a tangy depth to the glaze, substitute with yellow mustard if needed.
For the Stuffing
- Long grain rice – 1.5 cups uncooked; this serves as the base for your stuffing, wild or brown rice adds nutty flavor instead.
- Ground cumin – 2 teaspoons; provides a warm, earthy note, look to coriander for an alternative.
- Curry powder – 1 teaspoon; adds a punch of complexity, or omit for a simpler stuffing flavor.
- Reduced-sodium chicken broth – 4 cups; seasons the rice beautifully, vegetable broth is a great vegetarian substitute.
- Chopped pecans, toasted – 1 cup; crispens up the stuffing, walnuts can serve as an equally tasty alternative.
- Green onions, thinly sliced – 3; give a fresh, mild onion flavor, or choose chives for something subtler.
- Golden raisins – 1/2 cup; a sweet addition to the stuffing, regular raisins or dried cranberries work, too.
Now you’re well-equipped with the ingredients for your Glazed Cornish Hens with Pecan-Rice Stuffing! Each component works together to deliver a stunning and delicious holiday dish that will surely make your gathering memorable.
How to Make Glazed Cornish Hens with Pecan-Rice Stuffing
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Prepare Hens: Tuck the wings under each Cornish hen and tie the drumsticks together with kitchen twine. Rub the skin with softened butter, then season generously with salt and pepper. Place the hens breast side up in a shallow roasting pan for even cooking.
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Bake Initially: Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour. This step allows the hens to develop a lovely golden brown color and begin cooking through.
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Make Glaze: In a saucepan, simmer the apple juice over medium heat until it reduces by half, concentrating the sweet flavors. Stir in honey and Dijon mustard, then set aside 1/2 cup for drizzling before serving.
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Baste Hens: Brush the hens with the apple glaze and continue baking. Baste occasionally with the pan drippings until an internal thermometer reads 180°F (about 25-35 minutes). Loosely cover with foil if they start browning too quickly.
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Prepare Pecan Rice: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, then add the uncooked rice, cumin, and curry powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the rice is lightly browned. Stir in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered until the rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes. Finally, stir in the toasted pecans, green onions, and golden raisins for that delightful stuffing.
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Rest and Serve: Once the hens are cooked, cover them loosely with foil and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat. Serve with the pecan rice and drizzle the reserved glaze on top for an extra touch.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Glazed Cornish Hens
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Choose Uniform Sizes: Select Cornish hens that are similar in size to ensure even cooking, avoiding dry spots or undercooked areas.
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Baste Regularly: Don’t skimp on basting! Regularly brushing the hens with glaze keeps the skin crispy and flavorful, enhancing the overall taste.
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Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the hens reaches 180°F for safe consumption and succulent meat.
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Let Rest: Allow the hens to rest for 10 minutes after cooking. This helps retain moisture, leading to tender and juicy meat slices.
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Custom Stuffing: Feel free to get creative with the stuffing! Substitute pecans with your favorite nuts or add unique ingredients that fit your family’s tastes for a personalized touch.
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Serve with Veggies: For a complete meal, pair your Glazed Cornish Hens with seasonal roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance flavors and textures.
Make Ahead Options
These Glazed Cornish Hens with Pecan-Rice Stuffing are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the rice stuffing up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the rice and mix in the pecans, green onions, and raisins, then allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the hens, you can season and stuff them up to 24 hours ahead; just cover them tightly and store them in the fridge to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the baking instructions as directed, ensuring that the internal temperature reaches 180°F for perfectly succulent results. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll have a stress-free holiday meal with delicious flavor!
What to Serve with Glazed Cornish Hens with Pecan-Rice Stuffing?
Imagine rounding off your delightful meal with perfectly chosen sides that enhance each flavor in your glazed hens. Here are some exquisite pairings to elevate your dining experience!
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Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: The caramelized sweetness of roasted vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, offers a colorful and nutritious balance to the savory flavors of your main dish.
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Cranberry Sauce: This tangy, sweet accompaniment complements the richness of the Cornish hens, bringing a festive flair that enhances every bite.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, velvety texture of mashed potatoes acts as a perfect canvas for the luscious glaze, soaking up extra flavor while adding comfort to your meal.
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Garlic Herb Bread: Warm, crusty bread with hints of garlic and herbs adds a delightful crunch and is perfect for mopping up the delicious juices from your plate.
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Winter Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, slices of pear, candied nuts, and a light vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to your hearty main course, enlivening the overall meal.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc will harmonize beautifully with the dish, enhancing the sweet and savory notes of the glaze.
By thoughtfully selecting these sides, you can create a beautifully rounded meal that will impress and satisfy your loved ones, making your gathering truly memorable.
Glazed Cornish Hens with Pecan-Rice Stuffing Variations
Feel free to play around and make this recipe your own with these delightful twists and swaps!
- Nut-Free: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds for a crunchy, nut-free version that still delivers great texture and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to your pecan-rice stuffing for a zesty touch that will awaken your taste buds.
- Herby Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the glaze for an aromatic infusion that brightens the dish.
- Sweet and Savory: Swap honey in the glaze for maple syrup to introduce a new layer of sweetness that works wonderfully with the savory hens.
- Citrus Zing: Drizzle orange juice into the stuffing for a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the sweetness of the raisins beautifully.
- Whole Grain: Replace long grain rice with quinoa for an earthy, gluten-free alternative that adds a wonderful nutty flavor.
- Creamy Touch: Mix in a dollop of cream cheese or goat cheese into the stuffing for a rich and creamy twist that’s simply irresistible.
- Fruit Medley: Toss in chopped dried apricots or figs alongside the raisins for a fruit medley that enriches the stuffing with even more flavor dimensions.
Storage Tips for Glazed Cornish Hens with Pecan-Rice Stuffing
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Fridge: Store leftover Cornish hens in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick meals.
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Freezer: You can freeze the cooked hens for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Baste with additional glaze for extra flavor!
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Stuffing Storage: The pecan-rice stuffing can also be refrigerated in an airtight container, best consumed within 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Glazed Cornish Hens with Pecan-Rice Stuffing Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right Cornish hens?
Absolutely! Select hens that weigh between 20-24 ounces each and are uniform in size. This ensures they cook evenly, preventing any from being dry while another might be undercooked. Look for hens with plump bodies and smooth skin without dark spots, which could indicate spoilage.
What is the best way to store leftover Cornish hens?
Leftover Glazed Cornish Hens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before storing to keep them fresh. For longer storage, wrap the hens tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, placing them in the freezer where they will last for up to 3 months. To enjoy them later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I freeze the pecan-rice stuffing?
Yes, you can! To freeze the pecan-rice stuffing, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. It will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to bring it back to life.
What can I do if my Cornish hens are browning too quickly?
Very good question! If you notice your hens browning too quickly while they bake, simply loosen cover them with foil. This will reflect heat and prevent the skin from burning while allowing the meat to cook thoroughly. This technique will ensure they remain beautifully golden without sacrificing moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Typically, Cornish hens are a great option for most guests. However, be mindful of guests with nut allergies when preparing this dish due to the pecans in the stuffing. For a nut-free version, simply substitute the pecans with crispy breadcrumbs or omit the nuts entirely. Always double-check the ingredient labels, especially for condiments like Dijon mustard, which may contain allergens.
How long should I let the hens rest after cooking?
Be sure to let your Glazed Cornish Hens rest for about 10 minutes after taking them out of the oven. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite beautifully tender and juicy. Cover them loosely with foil to keep warm during this time.
Glazed Cornish Hens with Pecan-Rice Stuffing for Holiday Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Tuck the wings under each Cornish hen and tie the drumsticks with kitchen twine. Rub the skin with softened butter, then season with salt and pepper. Place hens breast side up in a shallow roasting pan.
- Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour until golden brown.
- In a saucepan, simmer apple juice over medium heat until reduced by half. Stir in honey and Dijon mustard, set aside 1/2 cup for drizzling.
- Brush hens with apple glaze and continue baking, basting occasionally with pan drippings until internal temperature reaches 180°F, about 25-35 minutes.
- In a saucepan, melt butter, add rice, cumin, and curry powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned. Stir in chicken broth, bring to boil, reduce heat and cover until rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes. Stir in pecans, green onions, and raisins.
- Once cooked, cover hens loosely with foil and rest for 10 minutes. Serve with pecan rice and drizzle with reserved glaze.