Honey Lemon-Glazed Cornish Hens with
California Walnut Rice Stuffing
This recipe is festive enough for company, but simple enough for weekday meals.
Recipe Ingredients:
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup chopped leeks or shallots
2 2/3 cups cooked long-grain parboiled white or brown rice
1 cup chopped toasted California Walnuts
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons finely grated lemon rind
4 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
4 Cornish hens, about 1 1/2 pound each
1/4 cup liquid honey
2 teaspoons lemon juice
Cooking Directions:
- In large skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add leeks; sauté until just tender. Stir in rice, walnuts, parsley, lemon rind and thyme. Season with salt and pepper; set aside.
- Rinse Cornish hens and pat dry; season inside and out with salt and pepper. Stuff cavity with rice mixture. Tuck wings underneath and tie legs together. Place with breast side up in large roasting pan.
- Bake in 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour or until juices run clear, basting several times with pan drippings.
- In small bowl, whisk together honey and lemon juice. Brush Cornish hens with honey glaze during last 15 minutes of cooking; baste several times with glaze and pan drippings. Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes; remove string.
Makes 4 servings.
Tip: The stuffing can also be enjoyed as a side dish with chicken, pork or fish. Place in casserole dish, adding 2/3 cup chicken broth. Cover and bake in 375°F (190°C) oven for 20 minutes or until heated through
Recipe and photograph provided courtesy California Walnuts.