Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Cornish Hen Recipe

Ruth’s Chris’ Stuffed Cornish Hen dish might look like a lot of work, but it actually comes together with just a little prep and solid timing. Don’t worry, I’ll show you how to get it right!

First, it’s all about letting the stuffing cool completely before filling the hens—warm stuffing can steam the inside too much.

I sear the hens skin-side down in a cast iron pan before roasting to give the skin a head start and extra texture.

Instead of a heavy bread-based stuffing, I stick with seasoned rice and bits of pancetta, which brings a salty bite that cuts through the richness.

Tent with foil once they come out of the oven, but don’t rush—ten minutes of rest really does make a difference with smaller birds.

It’s hearty without being heavy, and every piece brings something different depending on how the stuffing and juices come together!

How to Make Ruth’s Chris’ Stuffed Cornish Hen

Ingredients

• 4 Cornish Hens
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 cup Mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 cup Spinach (chopped)
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1 cup Wild Rice (cooked)
• 1/2 cup Apples (diced)
• 1/4 cup Dried Cranberries
• 1/4 cup Pecans (chopped)
• 4 tbsp Butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Season each Cornish hen generously with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a touch of pepper.

This sets the stage for a flavorful feast!

Step 2:

In a pan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then sauté mushrooms and spinach until soft.

This infusion of flavors is irresistible.

Step 3:

Mix the cooked wild rice, apples, dried cranberries, pecans, and sautéed vegetables in a bowl.

Use this mixture to stuff each Cornish hen generously.

Step 4:

In a skillet, heat the remaining butter and sear each side of the hens until golden brown, about 3 to 5 minutes per side.

Don’t rush this step!

Step 5:

Transfer hens to a preheated oven at 375°F.

Bake for approximately 40-50 minutes, or until meats are fully cooked and juices run clear.

This patience pays off!

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Searing Tips

Make sure your skillet is hot for searing to lock in all those tasty juices and rich flavors.

Searing lends a beautiful, golden exterior to the hens.

Stuffing Tips

Stuffing with the right texture ensures the hens remain moist inside while baking.

This balance between moistness and flavor is crucial for success.

Baking Tips

Cover the hens with foil for the first half of baking.

This keeps them juicy and tender without drying out the meat!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a simple green salad or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

You’ll love how these sides complement the stuffed Cornish hens perfectly!

What to Serve with Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Cornish Hen Recipe

Classic Mashed Potatoes

The creamy and buttery texture of mashed potatoes makes an excellent pairing with Cornish hen.

You can add garlic or chives for an extra burst of flavor.

They soak up any sauce or juices from the hen, creating a rich accompaniment for your meal.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts bring a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory elements of the stuffed Cornish hen.

You can toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze can enhance their natural taste.

Herbed Couscous

For something less common but just as delicious, try serving herbed couscous.

The light and fluffy texture of couscous, mixed with herbs and lemon zest, brings a refreshing contrast to your meal.

It’s quick to prepare and absorbs flavors beautifully.

Caramelized Carrots

Caramelized carrots introduce a hint of sweetness and add a vibrant color to your plate.

Cooking them with a touch of honey or brown sugar enhances their natural sweetness while creating a rich glaze.

A sprinkle of thyme or rosemary ties the dish together.

Quinoa Salad with Diced Apples

For a touch of freshness, a quinoa salad with diced apples can serve as a tasteful side.

This salad packs a nice crunch and lightness, contrasted against the Cornish hen.

You can add dried cranberries and toasted almonds to enhance the flavors.

Creamy Polenta

Creamy polenta offers a comforting and smooth option to pair with the stuffed Cornish hen.

Its creamy consistency complements the hen’s rich flavors well.

Try stirring in some Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of taste.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the great things about making Ruth’s Chris stuffed Cornish hen is how flexible the recipe can be.

Spice Mix

You can switch up the spices!

Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin for a different flavor profile.

Stuffing Variations

Instead of the traditional stuffing, you can experiment with ingredients like wild rice, diced apples, or dried cranberries.

Another idea is to add chopped walnuts or pine nuts for a crunchy texture.

Cheese Options

For the cheese, while cream cheese is classic, using goat cheese instead adds a bit of tanginess.

Vegetable Combinations

Feel free to add veggies such as finely chopped carrots or celery to complement the mushrooms and spinach.

Cooking Techniques

You might also explore cooking the hens by air frying or using a slow cooker for tenderness.

Trying these variations can make the recipe truly yours, encouraging you to incorporate your favorite flavors.

Have fun experimenting!

How to Store Leftover Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Cornish Hen Recipe

You have some delicious leftovers and want to ensure they stay fresh and tasty.

First, let the stuffed Cornish hens cool down to room temperature before putting them away.

It’s important not to wait too long to avoid any bacterial growth.

Proper Storage Containers

Place the hens in an airtight container.

If you don’t have one, wrap them well with aluminum foil or plastic wrap for an airtight seal.

This step helps to preserve moisture and flavor, so it’s worth taking the time to do it right.

Refrigeration Tips

Store the leftovers in the refrigerator.

They will be good for 3 to 4 days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy them again.

Remember, placing them on a middle shelf helps maintain a consistent temperature.

Freezing Leftovers

If you’re not planning to eat the leftovers within a few days, freezing is a fantastic option.

Wrap each piece individually so you can thaw only what you need.

They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, retaining their delicious flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overstuffing

Be cautious not to overstuff the Cornish hen.

Excess stuffing can hinder even cooking and may lead to an undercooked interior.

I recommend leaving some space inside the cavity for proper heat circulation.

Incorrect Oven Temperature

Make sure to set your oven to the correct temperature.

Cooking at too high a temperature can dry out the meat, while too low can result in uneven cooking.

Follow the recommended temperature in your recipe closely.

Not Tying the Legs

Don’t skip tying the legs of the Cornish hen.

This simple step helps maintain the stuffing inside, ensuring it absorbs the flavorful juices.

Use kitchen twine to neatly tie the legs together before baking.