Cooking a special meal can sometimes feel daunting, especially for occasions when only the best will do.
That’s why when it comes to delivering a memorable dining experience, one might look no further than Ruth’s Chris Steak House.
Known for their exquisite steaks, they also offer delectable recipes like the Stuffed Cornish Hen that capture the essence of fine dining straight to your kitchen.
This Stuffed Cornish Hen recipe combines tender meat with flavorful stuffing, creating a dish that can elevate any dinner occasion.
The magic of Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Cornish Hen lies in its perfect balance of flavors. The recipe brings together a blend of herbs and moist, flavorful stuffing, reminding everyone of the restaurant’s commitment to quality and taste.
The hens are traditionally basted frequently, ensuring that they remain juicy and delicious. This is an essential technique mastered by the chefs at Ruth’s Chris.
For those who crave something sumptuous, this recipe might just become a household favorite. Inspired by the classic classiness of Ruth’s Chris Steak House offerings, the Stuffed Cornish Hen provides a way to replicate the luxurious dining experience at home.
Discover how simple ingredients can transform into a sophisticated dish that delights the taste buds.
Why You Will Love Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Cornish Hen Recipe
Cooking Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Cornish Hen at home brings a taste of restaurant-style delight to your own kitchen. This dish mimics the flavors of the famous Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken, offering a similar indulgent experience.
The recipe transforms a traditional chicken recipe into a special meal. By stuffing the Cornish hens, each bite becomes a flavorful journey, rich with savory fillings.
It’s the perfect option for those who love comfort food with a touch of elegance.
It’s also simple enough to qualify as an easy dinner recipe. The instructions allow even novice cooks to create a stunning dish that they can be proud to present.
This makes it a go-to for special occasions or when hosting guests.
Offering an excellent choice as a copycat recipe, it allows you to recreate a beloved restaurant experience in your home. The flavors are memorable, with seasonings and textures that excite the palate.
Bringing the taste of Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken to your table, this recipe is both satisfying and heartwarming. Whether it’s a family dinner or a sophisticated gathering, the stuffed Cornish hen is sure to delight everyone.
How To Make Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Cornish Hen Recipe
Creating a delicious stuffed Cornish hen dish involves carefully choosing the right ingredients, using appropriate kitchen tools, and following precise steps.
The following methodology will guide you through crafting this mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients
The ingredients are crucial to achieving the unique flavor of Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Cornish Hen. You will need:
- Cornish hens: Choose fresh, high-quality ones.
- Creamy cheese filling: Mix cream cheese, parmesan, and ranch seasoning.
- Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, paprika, and freshly ground pepper.
- Worcestershire sauce: To enhance the depth of flavors.
- Olive oil: For browning and flavor.
- Fresh herbs: Parsley and chives for garnish.
These components come together to create a savory masterpiece.
Instruments
Having the right kitchen tools makes preparation straightforward:
- Mixing bowl: For combining the creamy filling.
- Measuring spoons and cups: Ensure accurate ingredient portions.
- Sharp knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping herbs and preparing hens.
- Roasting pan: A sizable one to accommodate the hens.
- Tongs: For safely handling the hens.
- Baking brush: To apply olive oil to the hens.
These instruments will help streamline the cooking process.
Step By Step Instruction
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese, parmesan, garlic, and onion powder. Add Worcestershire sauce and a dash of paprika.
- Season the Hens: Rub Cornish hens with a mixture of salt, pepper, and paprika. Ensure the seasoning covers all sides.
- Stuff the Hens: Carefully fill each hen with the cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Prep for Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place hens in a roasting pan.
- Cook the Hens: Brush the hens with olive oil and roast for about 50-60 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and juices run clear.
- Finish: Garnish with fresh parsley and chives before serving.
These steps will guide you towards a beautifully cooked dish.
Tips & Tricks
Keeping the stuffed Cornish hen juicy is key. To ensure it’s moist, you should regularly baste the hens while they cook. This helps lock in the flavors and keep the meat tender.
A meat thermometer is essential for achieving the perfect internal temperature. The hens should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safely cooked while staying juicy.
Common mistakes include overcooking and not seasoning enough. Proper seasoning both inside and out brings out the best flavors.
For a crispy exterior, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of cooking and brush the hens with melted butter. This will give them a beautiful golden finish and a delicious crunch.
Presentation can elevate this dish. You might consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Slices of lemon or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds can add color and freshness.
After enjoying the meal, it’s important to store leftovers properly. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. If planning to keep them longer, it’s best to freeze stuffed chicken for later use.
With these simple tips, you can make a truly memorable dish that impresses every time.
Ingredient Substitute
Sometimes you might find yourself missing an ingredient for Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Cornish Hen, but there are plenty of substitutes that work well.
Cream Cheese: If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta. These options provide similar creaminess, though they might affect the flavor slightly.
Cheddar Cheese: Instead of cheddar, consider using mozzarella or gouda. They melt well and give a nice texture to the stuffing. If you want a sharper taste, sharp cheddar could replace mild cheddar.
Parmesan Cheese: Grana Padano or Asiago make good replacements for parmesan. They have a similar salty, nutty flavor, bringing a robust taste to the dish.
Each of these alternatives will alter the taste and texture in small ways, but they still bring out fantastic flavors in the stuffed Cornish hen.
What To Serve With Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Cornish Hen Recipe
When planning to serve Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Cornish Hen, choosing the right side dishes can elevate the meal.
Mashed potatoes are a classic choice, offering a creamy and smooth contrast to the savory hen.
Roasted vegetables like carrots, brussels sprouts, and parsnips add vibrant colors and flavors. They complement the dish nicely and are easy to prepare alongside the hens.
A green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh, crisp counterpart. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions to create a refreshing and balanced side.
For a more substantial option, consider wild rice pilaf. The nutty flavor of the rice pairs well with the hen’s rich stuffing. Add some herbs and dried fruits for extra flair.
Asparagus, either grilled or roasted, brings a touch of elegance with its delicate and earthy notes. Season with lemon juice or parmesan for added zing.
If seeking comforting flavors, a sweet potato casserole can be an excellent choice. Its sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory elements of the dish, providing a warm and inviting side.
Nutrition Fact
For anyone curious about what they’re eating with Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Cornish Hen, here’s a handy nutritional breakdown of some typical ingredients.
- Cornish Hens: These small chickens usually pack around 140 calories per serving, with about 20 grams of protein.
- Cream Cheese: Offers about 100 calories and 10 grams of fat per ounce. It provides a creamy texture that enriches the dish.
- Spinach: Nutritious and low in calories, with just 7 calories per cup. It’s a great source of vitamins A and C.
- Mushrooms: These add approximately 15 calories per cup. They are high in B vitamins and antioxidants.
- Olive Oil: Contains about 120 calories and 14 grams of fat per tablespoon. It’s helpful for healthy cooking and flavor.
- Garlic and Onion Powder: They are low in calories, adding flavor without extra weight.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for taste, but practically calorie-free.
Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Cornish Hen
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Roasting pan
- Basting brush
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 2 Cornish hens about 1-1.5 lbs each
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.
- Season the Hens: Pat the hens dry and rub them with a mixture of salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Stuff the Hens: Carefully stuff each hen with the cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Prep for Roasting: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan.
- Cook the Hens: Brush the hens with olive oil. Roast for 50-60 minutes, basting occasionally. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Finish and Serve: Let the hens rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with parsley and chives before serving.
Notes
- Calories: ~400
- Protein: ~25g
- Total Fat: ~28g
- Saturated Fat: ~10g
- Cholesterol: ~110mg
- Sodium: ~400mg
- Carbohydrates: ~2g
