When it comes to cooking up a gourmet dinner, many home cooks turn to more traditional protein sources like chicken or beef. However, for those looking to add some excitement and variety to their meals, guinea hens can be a fantastic choice. With their rich, buttery flavor and tender meat, these birds are perfect for a range of recipes that showcase their unique qualities. From hearty stews and braises to elegant roasted dishes and flavorful grilled options, the possibilities are endless when it comes to cooking with guinea hens.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory guinea hen recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes offer a range of flavors and techniques to help you elevate your culinary game.
Roasted Guinea Hen with Herbs and Garlic
Experience the rich flavors of the wild with this simple yet impressive roasted guinea hen recipe, perfectly seasoned with aromatic herbs and pungent garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) guinea hen
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the guinea hen and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the guinea hen, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the guinea hen in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the guinea hen rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Braised Guinea Hen in Red Wine Sauce
Braised Guinea Hen in Red Wine Sauce: A Hearty Dish for Special Occasions
This rich and flavorful dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in with loved ones. The slow-cooked guinea hen falls apart tenderly, while the red wine sauce adds a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 lb) guinea hen
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the guinea hen with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the guinea hen until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium, add chopped onion, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, chicken broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the guinea hen to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Guinea Hen Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
A classic comfort food recipe, this Guinea Hen Pot Pie is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for a chilly evening. With a flaky crust and rich filling, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb guinea hen (or chicken), diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the guinea hen and onion in butter until browned. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the guinea hen mixture and cover with another piece of pie crust or a pie shield.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Guinea Hen with Lemon and Rosemary
A flavorful twist on traditional grilled poultry, this recipe combines the rich flavor of guinea hen with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) guinea hen
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the guinea hen.
4. Place the hen on the grill and cook for 20-25 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle chopped rosemary onto the hen.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Guinea Hen Stew with Root Vegetables
This hearty stew is a perfect comfort food dish, packed with tender guinea hen, root vegetables, and aromatic spices. It’s an ideal recipe for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless guinea hen breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, parsnips, and sweet potato. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the guinea hen, chicken broth, white wine (if using), garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the guinea hen is cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Spiced Guinea Hen Tagine with Apricots
A flavorful and aromatic Moroccan-inspired dish that combines the tender meat of guinea hen with sweet apricots and a blend of warming spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless guinea hen thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large clay tagine or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the onions, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook until the onions are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the guinea hen thighs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, apricots, honey, salt, and black pepper; stir to combine.
5. Cover and simmer over low heat for 30-40 minutes or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Guinea Hen Confit with Crispy Skin
This classic dish from the Southern United States is a testament to the rich flavor of slow-cooked poultry. The tender meat and crispy skin are sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole Guinea hen (3-4 lbs), patted dry
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the Guinea hen until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
5. Add the sliced onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Add the garlic, chicken broth, and honey to the pot, scraping up any browned bits.
7. Return the Guinea hen to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
8. Confit for 2-3 hours or overnight, until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
10. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and crispy skin.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours or overnight
Pan-Seared Guinea Hen with Mushroom Gravy
Savor the rich flavors of this autumnal dish, featuring tender guinea hen and a savory mushroom gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) guinea hen breast or thighs, cut into 8 pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pan-sear the guinea hen pieces in batches until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, red wine, and flour.
7. Pour the mixture over the mushrooms in the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Simmer the gravy for 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
9. Serve the pan-seared guinea hen with the mushroom gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes from start to finish.
Guinea Hen Casserole with Wild Rice
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavors of wild rice and tender guinea hen with a medley of sautéed vegetables, making it a perfect dish for a cold winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless guinea hen breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup wild rice blend
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, and onions)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sauté guinea hen, mixed vegetables, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper in olive oil until cooked through.
3. In a separate pot, cook wild rice according to package instructions.
4. Combine cooked guinea hen mixture with cooked wild rice, chicken broth, and cheddar cheese.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Smoked Guinea Hen with Applewood Glaze
Experience the rich flavors of autumn with this show-stopping smoked guinea hen dish, elevated by a sweet and tangy applewood glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 lb) guinea hen
– 1 cup wood chips (applewood or hickory)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Season the guinea hen with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Place the bird in the smoker, breast side up.
4. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Meanwhile, mix glaze ingredients in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the guinea hen with the applewood glaze every 10-15 minutes.
7. Remove from smoker and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Guinea Hen Fricassee with Creamy Sauce
A classic Southern dish, Guinea hen fricassee is a rich and flavorful comfort food that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknights. This recipe combines tender guinea hen with a creamy sauce infused with sautéed onions and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless guinea hen breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Season the guinea hen with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until caramelized, about 8 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return guinea hen to the skillet and spoon some of the creamy sauce over the top.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the guinea hen is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Guinea Hen Paella with Saffron and Chorizo
A traditional Spanish dish gets a flavorful twist with the addition of Guinea hen, saffron, and spicy chorizo.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Guinea hen thighs and legs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked paella rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chorizo, sliced
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Guinea hen pieces; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add chorizo; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add paella rice, saffron mixture, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Enjoy!
Stuffed Guinea Hen with Chestnut and Sage
This classic game bird dish is elevated by the earthy sweetness of roasted chestnuts and the savory aroma of sage. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful hen, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) guinea hen
– 1/2 cup chestnuts, peeled and halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chestnuts, olive oil, garlic, and sage.
3. Stuff the guinea hen with the chestnut mixture, making sure it’s evenly distributed inside the cavity.
4. Season the outside of the hen with salt and pepper.
5. Place the hen in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the hen rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Guinea Hen Curry with Coconut Milk
This flavorful curry is a delightful twist on traditional poultry dishes, featuring tender guinea hen cooked in a rich and creamy coconut milk-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb guinea hen, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
2. Add guinea hen pieces, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the guinea hen is cooked through.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Guinea Hen Soup with Barley and Leeks
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender guinea hen, creamy barley, and sweet leeks. This recipe is a great way to enjoy the rich flavors of game birds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Guinea Hen breast or thighs
– 2 cups Barley, rinsed and drained
– 4 medium Leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts)
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups Chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine Barley, Leeks, Carrots, Celery, Chicken broth, Onion, and Garlic.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Add Guinea Hen to the pot and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Season with Salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Guinea Hen Kebabs with Chimichurri
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these flavorful Guinea hen kebabs, smothered in a tangy and herby Argentinean-style chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Guinea hen breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, oregano, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add the Guinea hen cubes to the marinade and mix until coated. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Thread 3-4 pieces of the marinated Guinea hen onto each skewer.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. While the kebabs are cooking, combine chimichurri ingredients (see below).
7. Serve warm kebabs with a dollop of chimichurri sauce.
Chimichurri Sauce:
– Mix together 1/2 cup chopped parsley, 1/4 cup chopped oregano, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Guinea Hen Pâté with Cranberry Compote
Guinea Hen Pâté with Cranberry Compote Recipe
Summary:
Experience the rich flavors of Guinea hen and cranberries combined in this decadent pâté recipe, perfect for serving at your next gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Guinea hen breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup duck fat or vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cognac (optional)
– 1/2 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the Guinea hen in duck fat or oil until browned.
3. Add garlic and cognac (if using); cook for an additional minute.
4. Let cool slightly, then blend mixture in a food processor until smooth.
5. In a separate pan, combine cranberries, honey, salt, and pepper; heat over medium-low until cranberries pop and sauce thickens.
6. Serve pâté with warm cranberry compote.
Cooking Time:
About 45 minutes to prepare the pâté and 10-15 minutes for the compote.
Guinea Hen Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Guinea Hen Tacos with Avocado Salsa Recipe
Tender guinea hen, crisp vegetables, and creamy avocado salsa come together to create a flavorful and refreshing taco experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless guinea hen breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add guinea hen and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning guinea hen mixture onto a tortilla and topping with avocado salsa.
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Serve over guinea hen tacos.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Elevate your dining experience with these mouthwatering guinea hen recipes. From classic roasted dishes to global-inspired tagines and paellas, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Discover how to braise guinea hen in red wine sauce, create a flaky crust pot pie, or grill it with lemon and rosemary. These 18 savory recipes showcase the versatility of guinea hen and offer inspiration for gourmet dinners. Whether you’re looking for comfort food, international flavors, or simply a new twist on a familiar dish, these recipes are sure to impress.
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