Stuffed Cornish Hens with Wild Rice and Herb Glaze Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that feels both comforting and elegant, this Stuffed Cornish Hens with Wild Rice and Herb Glaze Recipe is exactly what you need. The tender hens cradle a savory wild rice stuffing bursting with fresh herbs, crunchy pecans, sweet apples, and tart cranberries, all glazed with a heavenly honey and apple cider mixture that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. This recipe transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into a feast that’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly memorable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Stuffed Cornish Hens with Wild Rice and Herb Glaze Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in bringing flavor, texture, and color harmony to the table. From aromatic herbs to the natural sweetness of apples and honey, every item contributes to creating a deliciously balanced dish.

• 2 cups wild rice: This nutty, chewy grain forms the hearty base of the stuffing, adding great texture and earthiness.
• 3 cups chicken broth: Essential for cooking the wild rice to perfection, infusing it with rich, savory notes.
• 3 tablespoons butter, divided: Adds richness to both the rice mixture and the cooking process, ensuring a silky mouthfeel.
• 1 cup chopped celery: Provides a fresh crunch and subtle peppery undertones to the stuffing.
• 1 cup chopped onion: Sweetens and deepens the flavor base when sautéed with garlic and celery.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant warmth that elevates all the other flavors.
• 2 gala apples, cored and chopped: Adds bursts of juicy sweetness that balance the savory elements perfectly.
• ¾ cup pecans, roughly chopped: Offers satisfying crunch and a buttery nuttiness to the stuffing.
• ½ cup dried cranberries: Infuses tartness and vibrant color, complementing the apples beautifully.
• 2 teaspoons fresh chopped rosemary: Contributes piney, aromatic notes that brighten the dish.
• 2 teaspoons fresh chopped thyme: Adds gentle earthiness, making the flavors more complex and layered.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Fundamental seasonings that tie everything together.
• ¼ cup honey: Sweetens and creates the glaze’s luscious shine.
• ¼ cup apple cider: Adds acidity and fruity depth to the glaze.
• 4 Cornish hens (1.50 lbs each): The star of the dish, tender and perfect for individual servings.

How to Make Stuffed Cornish Hens with Wild Rice and Herb Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Wild Rice Stuffing

Start by cooking the wild rice in the chicken broth until tender but still with a slight bite to it—about 45 to 50 minutes. Meanwhile, melt half of the butter in a skillet and sauté the onion, celery, and garlic until translucent and fragrant. Toss in the chopped apples, pecans, dried cranberries, rosemary, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly with the cooked rice, adding the remaining butter to create a rich, moist stuffing that’s bursting with color and flavor.

Step 2: Stuff and Season the Cornish Hens

Carefully stuff each Cornish hen’s cavity with the wild rice mixture, packing it gently but firmly. Pat the hens dry with paper towels, then season the outside generously with salt and pepper. This not only ensures crispy skin but also enhances the savory goodness of the bird and the stuffing inside.

Step 3: Make the Herb Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine honey, apple cider, fresh rosemary, and thyme. Warm over low heat until the honey dissolves completely and the mixture is well combined. This glaze will create a beautiful caramelized coating on the hens, sealing in juiciness and adding a glossy, irresistible finish.

Step 4: Roast the Hens to Golden Perfection

Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan and brush generously with the herb glaze. Roast in a preheated 375°F oven for about 50-60 minutes, basting every 15 minutes with more glaze to achieve that stunning golden color and enhanced flavor. The Cornish hens should reach an internal temperature of 165°F, and their skin should be perfectly crispy while the stuffing remains juicy and flavorful.

How to Serve Stuffed Cornish Hens with Wild Rice and Herb Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped rosemary and thyme just before serving adds an inviting herbal aroma and fresh visual appeal. Toasted pecans sprinkled over the top provide crunch contrast that pairs beautifully with the tender hens. For an extra pop of color, a few dried cranberries scattered around the plate brighten every bite.

Side Dishes

Light, vibrant sides work best here—consider steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of lemon. A crisp winter salad with citrus segments and nuts can balance the richness and add freshness. Creamy mashed potatoes or a silky parsnip puree complements the savory stuffing, rounding out a satisfying but not overly heavy meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve each Stuffed Cornish Hen individually on rustic wooden boards for a homey vibe or arrange them on a large platter surrounded by the wild rice stuffing and garnishes for a stunning centerpiece. You can also nestle the hens atop a bed of sautéed greens, allowing the juices to soak into every layer of the presentation, making your dinner guests swoon even before the first bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Stuffed Cornish Hens with Wild Rice and Herb Glaze Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to separate the stuffing from the hens if you want to preserve the texture of both components better.

Freezing

You can freeze the hens and stuffing, but it’s best to do so before roasting. Wrap each stuffed hen tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before roasting for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a 325°F oven covered with foil to prevent drying out, for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth to the stuffing before reheating helps keep it moist and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice for the stuffing?

Absolutely! While wild rice offers a wonderful nutty texture and flavor, you can substitute with brown rice or a rice blend if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the entire Stuffed Cornish Hens with Wild Rice and Herb Glaze Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure no cross-contamination during preparation.

Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, the wild rice stuffing can be made 1-2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and stuff the hens just before cooking to keep the flavors fresh.

How do I know when the Cornish hens are fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the bird. The juices should also run clear when pierced.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for the glaze?

You can, but fresh herbs are highly recommended for this recipe as they provide a brighter, more fragrant glaze. If needed, use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Cornish Hens with Wild Rice and Herb Glaze Recipe is a true delight that brings warmth and sophistication to any meal. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, why wait? Gather these simple ingredients and start creating a memorable dining experience that your family and friends will rave about for years to come!

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