Cornish Game Hens and Rice Bake
Elevate your dinner table with this sumptuous Cornish Game Hens and Rice Bake—a one-dish masterpiece that’s both elegant and comforting. Tender, golden-roasted Cornish game hens are seasoned with aromatic paprika, thyme, and a hint of lemon, then nestled atop a bed of perfectly cooked long-grain rice infused with chicken broth, garlic, onions, and a medley of fresh vegetables. This hearty oven-baked dish delivers a complete meal in every bite, with rich flavors and a crispy, bronzed skin that’s sure to impress. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family meal, this recipe is as visually stunning as it is delicious. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and everything cooking together in the oven, it’s an effortlessly impressive option for entertaining. Serve garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and enjoy a dish that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to make!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 whole Cornish game hens
- 1 cup Long-grain rice
- 2 cups Chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 1 medium Yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup Carrots, diced
- 1 cup Celery, diced
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1.5 teaspoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
- 1 whole Lemon, sliced
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Rinse the Cornish game hens inside and out under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels. Set aside.
In a large, oven-safe skillet or baking dish, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and become fragrant.
Stir in the long-grain rice and toss for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the grains.
Pour in the chicken broth and season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and the dried thyme. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
Rub the Cornish game hens with olive oil, then season them on all sides with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and the paprika. Be sure to season the cavities of the hens as well.
Stuff each hen with a wedge or two of lemon for added flavor.
Nestle the seasoned hens on top of the rice mixture in the baking dish or skillet.
Cover the skillet or dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
After 40 minutes, remove the foil and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the hens reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when tested at the thickest part of the breast and thighs.
If needed, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking to achieve a golden, crispy skin on the hens.
Remove the dish from the oven, let it rest for 5-10 minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve the Cornish game hens alongside the flavorful rice and vegetables. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
743 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 40.6 g | 52% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.5 g | 63% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 215 mg | 72% | |
| Sodium | 1256 mg | 55% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 28.6 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.2 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.0 g | ||
| Protein | 62.6 g | 125% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.7 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 114 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 4.2 mg | 23% | |
| Potassium | 1091 mg | 23% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
