When it comes to poultry, many cooks overlook the humble guinea hen. But with its rich flavor and versatility in the kitchen, this underrated bird is just begging to be put on the menu. From classic roasted dishes to international-inspired stews and casseroles, there are countless ways to prepare a delicious meal using guinea hen. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of what guinea hen has to offer.
Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping main course or a comforting weeknight dinner, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary creation. With flavors ranging from herb-infused and aromatic to spicy and savory, there’s something on this list for every palate.
So go ahead, give guinea hen a try, and discover why it’s becoming a favorite among foodies and chefs alike.
Roasted Guinea Hen with Herbs de Provence
Experience the bold flavors of southern France with this roasted guinea hen recipe, perfectly seasoned with the aromas of thyme, rosemary, and oregano.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 lb) guinea hen
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp Herbs de Provence blend (thyme, rosemary, oregano, lavender, marjoram)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, quartered
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 olive oil and Herbs de Provence blend.
4. Rub the mixture all over the guinea hen, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff the cavity with quartered lemon slices.
7. Place the guinea hen in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Braised Guinea Hen in Red Wine Sauce
Elevate your game with this rich and flavorful braised guinea hen dish, perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) guinea hen, quartered
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear guinea hen pieces until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add red wine, chicken broth, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Return guinea hen to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Guinea Hen Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
This classic pot pie recipe is a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for a chilly evening. The flaky crust adds a delightful texture to the rich and creamy filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb guinea hen, cooked and diced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic until tender.
3. Add the guinea hen, flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Fill the pie crust with the filling mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Guinea Hen with Lemon and Garlic
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional grilled poultry, this recipe combines the rich flavor of guinea hen with the brightness of lemon and the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) guinea hen
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, 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. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Guinea Hen Confit with Crispy Skin
Slow-cooked Guinea hen confit is a decadent and flavorful dish that showcases the bird’s tender meat and crispy skin.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) Guinea hen, patted dry
– 2 cups duck fat or rendered chicken fat
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– Fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the Guinea hen, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the Guinea hen in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid. Pour in the duck fat or rendered chicken fat, ensuring the bird is mostly submerged.
5. Roast the Guinea hen for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spicy Guinea Hen Tagine with Apricots
This Moroccan-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of guinea hen, apricots, and spices for a unique and aromatic tagine. Perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb guinea hen, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large clay or ceramic tagine (or Dutch oven) over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add guinea hen, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the meat is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add apricots, honey, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the meat is tender.
5. Serve hot over couscous or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Guinea Hen Stew with Root Vegetables
This hearty stew is a perfect way to showcase the rich flavor of guinea hen, paired with a medley of root vegetables for added depth and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb guinea hen pieces (legs, thighs, wings)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine guinea hen pieces, carrots, parsnips, sweet potato, onion, and garlic.
3. Pour in chicken broth and add thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 45-50 minutes or until the guinea hen is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pan-Seared Guinea Hen with Mushroom Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and elegant dish, featuring pan-seared guinea hen and a rich mushroom sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 lb) guinea hen, cleaned and patted dry
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the guinea hen with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the guinea hen for 5 minutes on each side, or until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add chicken broth, white wine (if using), and thyme. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
7. Return the guinea hen to the skillet, spooning some of the mushroom sauce over it. Transfer to oven and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Guinea Hen Casserole with Wild Rice
Guinea Hen Casserole with Wild Rice Recipe Summary:
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavor of guinea hen with the nutty taste of wild rice, making it a perfect comfort food dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless guinea hen breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked wild rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. Add guinea hen, flour, chicken broth, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Combine cooked wild rice with the guinea hen mixture and stir in frozen peas and carrots.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Dot top with butter.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Guinea Hen Fricassee with Creamy Gravy
A classic Southern dish, Guinea hen fricassee is a flavorful and comforting meal perfect for special occasions or family gatherings. This recipe combines tender guinea hen pieces with sautéed vegetables and a rich creamy gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole guinea hen (3-4 lbs), cut into 8 pieces (2 legs, 2 thighs, 2 wings, 2 breasts)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Season guinea hen pieces with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and mushrooms. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet, whisking to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until gravy thickens slightly.
6. Return guinea hen pieces to the skillet and spoon some of the creamy gravy over them. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Guinea Hen Stuffed with Chestnuts and Sage
This classic dish is a delightful combination of savory guinea hen, sweet chestnuts, and fragrant sage. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) Guinea hen
– 1/2 cup cooked chestnuts
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the guinea hen and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cooked chestnuts, butter, and chopped sage.
4. Stuff the mixture into the cavity of the Guinea hen, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
5. Season the outside with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed guinea hen in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Guinea Hen with Applewood Chips
A deliciously tender guinea hen infused with the sweet and smoky flavors of applewood chips, perfect for a unique dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 (3-4 lb) guinea hen
• 1 cup applewood chips
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F using applewood chips.
2. Rinse the guinea hen and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, and black 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 the smoker, breast side up.
6. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Let the guinea hen rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Guinea Hen in White Wine and Tarragon Sauce
Guinea Hen with White Wine and Tarragon Sauce: A Delightful Dish
This recipe presents a flavorful and aromatic dish that showcases the tender Guinea hen, paired with the brightness of white wine and the subtle charm of tarragon. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
• 1 (2-3 lb) Guinea hen
• 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried tarragon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the Guinea hen with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the Guinea hen until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the hen to a baking dish and add the minced garlic, white wine, and dried tarragon. Cover with aluminum foil.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove the foil and let the Guinea hen rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 55-60 minutes
Guinea Hen Paella with Saffron and Chorizo
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this hearty and aromatic paella dish, featuring guinea hen, saffron, and chorizo.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Guinea hen, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chorizo, sliced
– 1 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp hot water
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add chorizo; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add Guinea hen pieces; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add rice, chicken broth, saffron mixture, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 25-30 minutes or until rice is tender.
7. Remove from heat; let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Guinea Hen Kebabs with Chimichurri
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this flavorful and colorful recipe that combines tender Guinea hen with a tangy Argentinean-style chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Guinea hen breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 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, salt, and pepper.
3. Add Guinea hen pieces and toss to coat.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine chimichurri sauce ingredients in a bowl. Stir well.
7. Serve grilled kebabs with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Guinea Hen Pâté with Cognac
Elevate your charcuterie game with this rich and savory pâté, featuring guinea hen as the star ingredient. This luxurious spread is perfect for serving at parties or enjoying on its own with crackers or toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb guinea hen liver
– 1/2 cup cognac
– 1/4 cup duck fat or unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine guinea hen liver, cognac, duck fat or butter, garlic, and flour. Blend until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the mixture into a baking dish or terrine mold.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the pâté is set and slightly firm to the touch.
6. Let cool before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Guinea Hen Soup with Barley and Kale
This traditional soup is a staple of many homesteads, providing a nourishing meal that warms the soul. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s no wonder this recipe has been passed down through generations.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Guinea hen or chicken breast
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 4 cups kale leaves (curly or lacinato)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, barley, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the Guinea hen or chicken breast and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Stir in the kale leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Guinea Hen Roulade with Spinach and Cheese
A classic French dish gets a delightful twist with the addition of tender guinea hen, spinach, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb guinea hen breast, butterflied
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach and grated cheese.
3. Lay the guinea hen breast flat on a work surface. Spread the spinach-cheese mixture evenly over the meat, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll the guinea hen tightly into a log shape, starting from one of the short ends.
5. Place the roulade seam-side down in a buttered baking dish.
6. Dot the top with softened butter and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of guinea hen with these 18 exquisite recipes, perfect for gourmet meals. From classic roasts to global-inspired dishes, discover new ways to prepare this delicious bird. Try roasted guinea hen with herbs de Provence, braised in red wine sauce, or grilled with lemon and garlic. Or, go bold with spicy tagine with apricots, smoked with applewood chips, or paella-style with saffron and chorizo. These mouthwatering recipes will elevate your cooking game and impress your guests.
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