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Apple-Cranberry Stuffed Cornish Hens

Apple-Cranberry Stuffed Cornish Hens for a Cozy Feast

Apple-Cranberry Stuffed Cornish Hens brings a cozy essence of comfort food, perfect for festive gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 hens
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Hens
  • 2 hens Cornish Hens about 1-1.5 lbs each; rinse if preferred for extra freshness.
For the Stuffing
  • 2 cups Apples diced; adds delightful sweetness, or use pears for a different taste.
  • 1 cup Fresh Cranberries provides tartness; frozen cranberries can work well too.
  • 2 cups Bread Crumbs essential for structure; opt for whole grain or gluten-free if needed.
  • 1 medium Onion chopped; enhances flavor depth; shallots can be a milder alternative.
  • 1 cup Celery chopped (optional); adds moisture and crunch.
For Flavoring
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme imparts a lovely earthy flavor; fresh thyme can elevate taste further.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary adds aromatic character; feel free to replace with sage if preferred.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Cinnamon brings warmth; cloves can be a good substitute in small amounts.
  • 0.25 teaspoon Nutmeg enriches flavor complexity; allspice is a suitable alternative.
For Seasoning and Cooking
  • Salt and Pepper essential for balancing flavors; adjust according to preference.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil perfect for sautéing vegetables; melted butter is a delicious substitute.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth helps moisten the stuffing; vegetable broth offers a lighter option.
For Garnishing
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Parsley chopped; brightens the dish; try thyme or chives for a unique touch.

Equipment

  • Roasting pan
  • Skillet
  • large mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather your ingredients and equipment.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and optional celery, sautéing for about 5 minutes until soft.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine sautéed vegetables with diced apples, fresh cranberries, and bread crumbs. Sprinkle in the dried herbs and mix in chicken broth.
  4. Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water, pat dry, and fill the cavities with the stuffing. Place hens breast side up in a roasting pan.
  5. Sear each Cornish hen in a skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  6. Transfer seared hens to the oven. Roast for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  7. Remove hens from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1henCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For optimal flavor, avoid overstuffing the hens and allow them to rest after roasting for juicy meat. Prepare the stuffing a day in advance for convenience.

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