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Apple-Cranberry Stuffed Cornish Hens

Delicious Apple-Cranberry Stuffed Cornish Hens for Cozy Meals

This Apple-Cranberry Stuffed Cornish Hens recipe offers an impressive dish perfect for gatherings, combining sweet apples and tart cranberries for a festive meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 hens
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Apple-Cranberry Stuffing Ingredients
  • 1 cup Rice Feel free to substitute with wild or brown rice for a nuttier flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Butter Can be swapped for olive oil for a lighter, dairy-free version.
  • 1 medium Onion Adds depth and sweetness when sautéed.
  • 2 cups Diced Apples Try using pears for a refreshing twist.
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries Raisins or dried cherries can be used as alternatives.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Sage or rosemary can also be great substitutes.
  • to taste Salt Adjust for personal taste.
  • to taste Pepper Adjust for personal taste.
For the Hens
  • 4 medium Cornish Hens You can also use small chickens or game hens for variation.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Feel free to use melted butter instead.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • roasting pan
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
  2. Mix in diced apples and dried cranberries along with the cooked rice. Stir, allowing the ingredients to meld. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper, then set the stuffing aside to cool slightly.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure the hens bake evenly.
  4. Rinse each Cornish hen under cold water and pat them dry. Drizzle olive oil over the skin and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Stuff each Cornish hen with the apple-cranberry rice stuffing, packing it lightly.
  6. Place the stuffed Cornish hens in a roasting pan and bake for approximately 1 hour, checking that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C).

Nutrition

Serving: 1henCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Consider pairing with a fresh salad or your favorite side dish for an unforgettable dining experience.

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