Grilled Rock Cornish Game Hens with Curried Pineapple Stuffing
Discover the joy of grilling with these succulent Rock Cornish Game Hens, perfectly stuffed with a delightful curried pineapple mixture. Whether you choose to spit-grill or bake them in the oven, these flavorful birds promise a mouthwatering experience that pairs beautifully with rice pilaf or stir-fried rice and fresh green beans. Ideal for gatherings, this dish brings a tropical twist to your dinner table, adding a refreshing and exotic flavor profile that will impress family and friends alike.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Rock Cornish game hens
4 (thawed)
Pineapple chunks
1 (16-ounce can, drained)
Curry powder
to taste (for sprinkling)
Salt
to taste (for seasoning)
Pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Butter
1/2 cup (melted)
Lemon juice
2 1/2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
Instructions
1
Preheat your grill to medium heat or your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2
Rinse the rock cornish game hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Remove any innards and lightly season the inside and outside with salt and pepper.
3
In a bowl, sprinkle the drained pineapple chunks with curry powder, tossing to coat evenly, and stuff the mixture into the cavity of each hen.
4
Truss the hens by tying the wings to the body and securing the legs together. This helps the hens cook evenly.
5
For grilling: Balance each hen on the spit and secure with holding forks. Grill over medium coals or use a rotisserie setup in a gas grill, cooking for 45 minutes to an hour while basting occasionally with a mixture of melted butter and lemon juice.
6
For baking: Place the hens on a rack in a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Baste occasionally with the butter and lemon juice mixture, and cover with foil if they begin to brown too quickly.
7
Once cooked, let the hens rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your choice of sides!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Rock Cornish game hens?
Rock Cornish game hens are small, young chickens that typically weigh between 1 and 2 pounds, making them perfect for individual servings.
How should I prepare the hens before cooking?
Rinse the hens under cold water, pat them dry with paper towels, remove any innards, and season both the inside and outside with salt and pepper.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned for the stuffing?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple chunks; just ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces and measured to approximately 16 ounces.
What type of curry powder should I use?
You can use any standard yellow curry powder, or choose a mild or spicy version depending on your heat preference.
Why do I need to truss the hens?
Trussing involves tying the wings and legs to the body, which helps the birds cook more evenly and maintain a better shape.
What is the best way to grill the hens?
The best method is to spit-grill them over medium coals or use a rotisserie setup in a gas grill for even browning.
How long does it take to grill the game hens?
They typically take between 45 minutes and one hour when grilled over medium heat.
Can I bake these hens in the oven instead?
Yes, place them on a rack in a baking dish and bake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius) for about one hour.
What should the internal temperature of the hen be when finished?
The hens are fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius).
What do I use for basting the hens?
Baste the hens occasionally with a mixture of 1/2 cup melted butter and 2.5 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
How do I prevent the hens from browning too quickly in the oven?
If the hens begin to brown too fast, simply cover them loosely with aluminum foil while they finish baking.
Should the hens be thawed before cooking?
Yes, ensure the Rock Cornish game hens are completely thawed before you begin the preparation and stuffing process.
What sides pair well with this tropical dish?
Rice pilaf, stir-fried rice, and fresh green beans are excellent accompaniments to the curried pineapple flavors.
Do I need to drain the pineapple chunks?
Yes, it is important to drain the 16-ounce can of pineapple chunks thoroughly before coating them in curry powder.
Is the stuffing meant to be eaten?
Absolutely, the curried pineapple stuffing infuses the meat with flavor and is delicious when served alongside the hen.
How many hens does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed for 4 Rock Cornish game hens.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?
Yes, lime juice can be used as a substitute for lemon juice to give the basting mixture a slightly different citrus profile.
How do I secure the hens on a grill spit?
Balance each hen on the spit and use holding forks to secure them firmly so they rotate consistently.
Should I let the hens rest after cooking?
Yes, letting the hens rest for a few minutes before serving helps the juices redistribute, ensuring the meat stays moist.
Can I add other ingredients to the pineapple stuffing?
While the recipe focuses on curry and pineapple, you could add small amounts of diced onion or bell pepper for extra texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
The dish is aromatic rather than spicy, though the heat level depends entirely on the type of curry powder you choose.
Can I use frozen pineapple chunks?
Yes, but make sure they are fully thawed and very well-drained so they do not add too much moisture to the cavity.
What is the purpose of the butter and lemon juice mixture?
The mixture acts as a glaze and basting liquid that keeps the skin moist and adds a bright, rich flavor.
How do I know if my grill heat is 'medium'?
Medium heat on a grill is generally between 325 and 375 degrees Fahrenheit; you should be able to hold your hand over the coals for about 5-7 seconds.
Can I make this with a regular chicken?
You can, but you would need to adjust the cooking time significantly and likely double the amount of stuffing.
What if I don't have a rotisserie?
You can grill them over indirect heat on a standard grill grate, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
How much salt and pepper should I use?
Seasoning is to taste, but a light, even dusting inside the cavity and across the skin is generally sufficient.
Is this dish gluten-free?
As written, this recipe consists of poultry, fruit, and spices, which are naturally gluten-free; always check your curry powder label to be sure.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover hens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this dish be served at a tropical-themed party?
Yes, the combination of pineapple and curry gives it a wonderful exotic and tropical flavor profile perfect for themed gatherings.