Are you looking for a unique and flavorful twist on traditional poultry dishes? Look no further than guinea hen! With its tender meat and rich, gamey flavor, guinea hen is a gourmet’s delight. In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of guinea hen.
From classic roasted guinea hen with garlic and rosemary to braised guinea hen in red wine sauce, and from hearty stews and casseroles to elegant roulades and confits, these recipes offer something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for new inspiration, these 18 guinea hen recipes are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of guinea hen cuisine, exploring a range of flavors and techniques that will elevate your cooking to new heights. So sit back, get ready to be inspired, and let’s start cooking with these 18 savory guinea hen recipes!
Roasted Guinea Hen with Garlic and Rosemary
Savor the flavors of this aromatic roasted guinea hen dish, infused with pungent garlic and herbaceous rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) guinea hen, patted dry
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the guinea hen under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and rosemary.
4. Stuff the hen’s cavity with the garlic-rosemary mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the hen, season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the guinea hen in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the hen rest for 10 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 rich and flavorful dish perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 lb) guinea hen, patted dry with paper towels
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Season the guinea hen with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the guinea hen until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low, add onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine, chicken broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Return guinea hen to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Guinea Hen Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
This savory pot pie showcases the rich flavor of guinea hen, paired with tender vegetables and a flaky, buttery crust. Perfect for a comforting dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb guinea hen breast or thighs, boned and diced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– Flaky pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the guinea hen, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking continuously.
5. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Fill the pie crust with the guinea hen mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Brush the edges of the crust with beaten egg and fold over filling.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Guinea Hen with Lemon and Herbs
Savor the tender flavor of guinea hen as it’s infused with the brightness of lemon and the warmth of herbs, perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 lb) guinea hen
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the guinea hen and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the guinea hen on a rimmed baking sheet or a large plate. Brush the lemon-herb mixture evenly over both sides of the bird.
5. Grill the guinea hen for 30-40 minutes, turning every 10-12 minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the guinea hen rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Guinea Hen Confit with Crispy Skin
This classic French dish showcases the rich flavors of slow-cooked guinea hen, paired with a satisfying crunch from caramelized skin.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 lb) Guinea hen
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Rinse the guinea hen and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Heat 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.
4. Remove the guinea hen from the pot, then add sliced onion and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Add garlic, chicken broth, white wine, thyme, salt, and pepper 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. Confit for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow-Cooked Guinea Hen Stew with Root Vegetables
A hearty and comforting stew perfect for a chilly evening, featuring guinea hen as the star of the show. This slow-cooked recipe allows the rich flavors to meld together, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole guinea hen (3-4 lbs), cut into 8 pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium turnips, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 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. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the guinea hen pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the chopped carrots, parsnips, turnips, garlic, chicken broth, and white wine (if using) to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5. Add the browned guinea hen pieces to the slow cooker, along with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Guinea Hen Roulade with Spinach and Cheese
A flavorful and elegant dish that showcases the tender Guinea hen breast, wrapped around a creamy spinach and cheese filling.
Ingredients:
– 4 Guinea hen breasts, boned and butterflied
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, cheese, and heavy cream. Mix well.
3. Lay each Guinea hen breast flat on a work surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the spinach mixture along the center of each breast, leaving a 1-inch border on both sides.
4. Roll each breast tightly, starting from the side opposite the filling. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roulades until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serves: 4
Pan-Seared Guinea Hen with Mushroom Gravy
This recipe combines the rich flavors of a pan-seared guinea hen with the earthy depth of sautéed mushrooms and a hint of herbs. Perfect for a special occasion or dinner party, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) guinea hen, patted dry
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the guinea hen with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the guinea hen until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, mushrooms, garlic, white wine, chicken broth, and thyme. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and the liquid has reduced by half, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Return the guinea hen to the skillet and spoon some of the mushroom gravy over the top. Transfer to the oven and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the guinea hen is cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Guinea Hen Tagine with Apricots and Almonds
Experience the rich flavors of North Africa with this aromatic tagine dish featuring guinea hen, apricots, and almonds. This slow-cooked stew is perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb guinea hen pieces (thighs, legs, wings)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chopped dried apricots
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large clay or ceramic tagine (or Dutch oven) over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the guinea hen and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Stir in the apricots and almonds. Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Guinea Hen with Applewood Glaze
Smoked Guinea Hen with Applewood Glaze Recipe
Summary: This recipe yields a tender and flavorful smoked guinea hen glazed with a sweet and tangy applewood glaze. Perfect for special occasions or as a unique addition to your holiday menu.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole guinea hen (3-4 lbs), giblets removed
- 2 cups wood chips (applewood, cherry, or hickory)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C). Season the guinea hen with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Smoke the guinea hen for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Mix glaze ingredients in a bowl. Brush the glaze onto the guinea hen during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
- Let the guinea hen rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking) + 10-15 minutes (resting)
Guinea Hen Cacciatore with Tomatoes and Olives
This classic cacciatore recipe is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines the rich taste of guinea hen, juicy tomatoes, and savory olives. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs Guinea Hen breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed tomatoes (crushed and diced)
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add guinea hen and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove guinea hen from the skillet. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Return guinea hen to the skillet and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Guinea Hen Paella with Saffron and Chorizo
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this savory paella dish featuring tender guinea hen, smoky chorizo, and a hint of saffron. This classic Spanish recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Guinea hen, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Chorizo, sliced
– 1 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp hot water
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Guinea hen and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the Chorizo and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the Arborio rice, chicken broth, saffron mixture, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
6. Return the Guinea hen to the pan and bring the mixture to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stuffed Guinea Hen with Wild Rice and Cranberries
This recipe celebrates the flavors of fall with a deliciously stuffed guinea hen dish, featuring wild rice and cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) guinea hen, thawed
– 1 cup wild rice, cooked according to package instructions
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cooked wild rice, cranberries, olive oil, onion, garlic, and thyme.
3. Rinse the guinea hen and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Stuff the cavity of the guinea hen with the wild rice mixture, dividing it evenly between both sides of the breast.
5. Season the outside of the bird with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed guinea hen in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the bird rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Guinea Hen Fricassee with Creamy Mustard Sauce
This classic French dish is a masterclass in comfort food, featuring tender guinea hen cooked in a rich and flavorful sauce. Serve with crusty bread or over egg noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs Guinea hen, cut into 8 pieces
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove hen from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium, add onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add broth, cream, and mustard to skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return hen to skillet and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Guinea Hen Legs with Honey and Thyme Glaze
This recipe showcases the rich flavor of guinea hen legs, elevated by a sweet and savory glaze featuring honey and thyme. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 Guinea hen legs
– 1/2 cup Honey
– 2 tbsp Olive oil
– 2 tbsp Fresh thyme leaves
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, olive oil, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the guinea hen legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey-thyme glaze evenly onto both sides of the legs.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the meat is cooked through and slightly caramelized.
6. Let the legs rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Guinea Hen Breast with Black Truffle Butter
Elevate your dinner game with this decadent and flavorful recipe, featuring tender guinea hen breast smothered in a rich black truffle butter sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 Guinea hen breasts
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons black truffle butter (or 1 tablespoon truffle oil and 1 tablespoon softened butter)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season guinea hen breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the black truffle butter over medium heat. Add garlic; cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Place the guinea hen breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the black truffle butter mixture evenly over each breast.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Guinea Hen and Dumplings in Rich Broth
Savor the comfort of a hearty, old-fashioned dish with this recipe for Guinea Hen and Dumplings in Rich Broth. The tender hen and fluffy dumplings are cooked to perfection in a rich, savory broth that’s sure to warm hearts and bellies.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) Guinea hen
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the Guinea hen with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken broth, carrots, celery, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the seasoned Guinea hen to the pot and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the hen is cooking, prepare the dumplings by whisking together flour and butter in a small bowl.
6. Remove the hen from the pot and add the dumpling mixture. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Guinea Hen Liver Pâté with Cognac
Elevate your culinary experience with this rich and decadent pâté, perfect for serving as an appetizer or using as a spread. This recipe combines the creamy texture of guinea hen liver with the deep flavors of cognac.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound guinea hen livers
– 1/2 cup cognac
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Rinse the livers and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Add cognac, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
6. Add the guinea hen livers and blend until well combined and creamy.
7. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Elevate your culinary game with these 18 mouth-watering guinea hen recipes, perfect for gourmet dinners. From classic roasts to slow-cooked stews and flavorful tagines, these dishes showcase the versatility of this underappreciated bird. Try Roasted Guinea Hen with Garlic and Rosemary, Braised Guinea Hen in Red Wine Sauce, or Guinea Hen Pot Pie with Flaky Crust. For something more adventurous, try Grilled Guinea Hen with Lemon and Herbs or Guinea Hen Confit with Crispy Skin. With a range of flavors and cooking methods to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect dish to impress your guests.
