Oven-Roasted Herb Garlic Chicken Drumsticks with Roasted Vegetables -

Oven-roasted chicken drumsticks are a go-to dinner option for many families. This method of cooking chicken not only preserves the flavor but also enhances the tenderness of the meat. Paired with beautifully roasted vegetables, this dish is not only colorful but also nutritious. It’s the kind of meal that brings the family together, offering both comfort and satisfaction. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these Oven-Roasted Herb Garlic Chicken Drumsticks with Roasted Vegetables are sure to impress.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe for oven-roasted chicken drumsticks with roasted vegetables is a winner for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just 15 minutes of prep time. The marinade, packed with herbs and garlic, infuses the chicken with delicious flavors while keeping it moist during roasting. The combination of roasted potatoes and carrots provides a hearty, comforting side that complements the savory chicken perfectly. Plus, with just 45 minutes in the oven, you can have a delicious meal ready with minimal fuss. Finally, the dish is highly customizable—feel free to mix and match your favorite seasonal vegetables!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Choose Quality Meat: Opt for organic or free-range chicken drumsticks whenever possible. Not only does this contribute to better flavor, but it also supports better farming practices.

Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Bell peppers, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts are great alternatives.

Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for longer—ideally overnight. This helps the flavors penetrate the meat more effectively.

Don’t Crowd the Pan: Ensure that both the chicken and vegetables are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, affecting texture and flavor.

Check Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish, along with the proper measurements:

For the Chicken & Marinade:

8-10 chicken drumsticks, skin-on for extra crispiness
3 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped or 1 tsp dried
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped or 1 tsp dried
1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1 tsp black pepper
1 lemon, juiced with zest for extra flavor

For the Vegetables:

3 medium potatoes, diced into 1-inch cubes
3 large carrots, diced into 1-inch pieces
1 onion, roughly chopped (optional)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and zest. Whisk these ingredients together until well mixed.

Step 2: Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl. Use your hands to thoroughly coat each drumstick in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the vegetables. In a separate bowl, toss the diced potatoes, carrots, and chopped onions (if using) with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.

Step 4: On a large baking sheet, spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer. This space is crucial for achieving a nice roasted texture. Place the marinated chicken drumsticks on top of the vegetables, skin-side up. If desired, drizzle any leftover marinade over the top for added flavor.

Step 5: Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the vegetables are tender. For an extra crispy skin on the chicken, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 6: Once done, remove from the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious meal with a side salad or crusty garlic bread!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but reduce the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness to avoid overcooking.

How long can I store leftover chicken and vegetables?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before and store the veggies chopped. Then, just assemble and bake when you are ready.

What other vegetables work well with this recipe?

Green beans, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini can also be excellent additions. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided that no gluten-containing ingredients are added to the marinade or vegetables.

Conclusion

This Oven-Roasted Herb Garlic Chicken Drumsticks with Roasted Vegetables recipe is the perfect solution for a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal that the entire family will enjoy. Its simplicity and flavor make it one you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this dish brings the warm comfort of home cooking straight to your table.