Rustic Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Herbed Carrots & Potatoes is a delicious and satisfying dish that can easily become a family favorite. The combination of juicy drumsticks and flavorful, roasted vegetables creates a hearty meal that is both comforting and nutritious. In just under an hour, you can have a wholesome dinner on the table that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and taste. The tender chicken drumsticks are seasoned with easy-to-find herbs, while the roasted carrots and potatoes provide natural sweetness and nutrition. Plus, everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! The calorie count is around 580 per serving, making it friendly for most diets without skimping on flavor. This recipe also allows for flexibility, as you can easily modify the vegetables based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients
For a meal that serves four, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 Chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil (for chicken)
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Thyme (dried or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon Rosemary (dried or fresh)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 Lemon
- 4 Carrots, chopped
- 500g Potatoes (red or yellow), cubed
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil (for vegetables)
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Oregano
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Rustic Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Herbed Carrots & Potatoes:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine chicken drumsticks with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Make sure each drumstick is evenly coated with the marinade.
- Step 3: In another bowl, mix chopped carrots and cubed potatoes with two tablespoons of olive oil, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Step 4: Transfer the seasoned vegetables into a large baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
- Step 5: Place the marinated chicken drumsticks on top of the vegetables or nestle them among them.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C), and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Pro Tips for Making Rustic Baked Chicken Drumsticks
- Enhance your vegetable medley by adding onions or parsnips for extra flavor.
- If you like a bit of heat, consider adding chili flakes or smoked paprika to the chicken marinade.
- For crispier chicken skin, broil the dish for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Use different herbs according to your taste; rosemary and thyme pair well but feel free to experiment!
- If you’re short on time, marinading the chicken for at least 30 minutes will still yield excellent flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use boneless chicken instead of drumsticks?
A: Yes! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they typically cook faster.
Q: What side dishes pair well with this meal?
A: Simple salads, steamed green beans, or a fresh cucumber salad complement this dish nicely.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the vegetables a day in advance. Just keep them stored separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
Q: What other vegetables can I use?
A: Feel free to substitute with zucchini, bell peppers, or even Brussels sprouts based on your preference.
Conclusion
This Rustic Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Herbed Carrots & Potatoes recipe is not only a true crowd-pleaser but also an inviting, hearty dish that will warm you from the inside out. Perfectly paired flavors and the ease of one-pan cooking make it a family favorite that you will find yourself reaching for again and again. Enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience with impressive results that taste as good as they look!
