Tender, golden-brown chicken drumsticks roasted alongside sweet carrots and hearty potatoes, all seasoned with aromatic herbs and garlic—this classic one-pan dinner is comforting, flavorful, and remarkably simple to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy Sunday supper, it’s a satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This roasted chicken drumsticks recipe is a go-to for its simplicity and flavor-packed results. Here’s what makes it special:

• A complete, balanced meal cooked on one pan
• Crispy, well-seasoned chicken with tender vegetables
• Minimal prep with easy cleanup
• Naturally gluten-free and budget-friendly
• Perfect for both casual dinners and meal prepping

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6 chicken drumsticks, skin-on
• 4 medium potatoes, chopped into chunks
• 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the chopped potatoes and carrots with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, half of the garlic powder, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer in a large baking dish or sheet pan.
4. Rub the chicken drumsticks with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and season them with the rest of the garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. Arrange the drumsticks on top of the vegetables in the baking dish.
6. Roast uncovered in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, flipping the chicken and vegetables halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. For extra crispiness, broil the dish for an additional 2–3 minutes at the end of the cooking time.
8. Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Add onions: Toss in a chopped red or yellow onion for extra depth of flavor.
• Use different vegetables: Substitute carrots or potatoes with parsnips, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.
• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
• Fresh herbs: Add rosemary or sage sprigs during roasting for a fragrant twist.
• Marinated chicken: Marinate drumsticks in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before roasting.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through. To keep the chicken skin crispy, avoid microwaving.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken instead of drumsticks?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time accordingly. Boneless chicken may only need 25–30 minutes to cook through.

Should I peel the potatoes?

It’s up to personal preference. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well with the skin on, while Russets are often better peeled.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time and refrigerate them in the baking dish. Roast just before serving for best texture.

What if I don’t have dried thyme?

You can substitute with dried oregano, Italian seasoning, or a mix of rosemary and parsley.

How do I know the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this in a convection oven or air fryer?

Yes, a convection oven will cook it slightly faster. For an air fryer, you may need to cook in batches depending on size.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. It stores and reheats well, making it ideal for preparing weekday lunches or dinners.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a side salad, steamed green beans, or crusty bread.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, bone-in skin-on chicken thighs are a great substitute and cook in roughly the same amount of time.

How do I prevent the vegetables from getting too soft?

Cut the potatoes and carrots into uniform, slightly larger chunks to help them retain texture through roasting.

Conclusion

Roasted Chicken Drumsticks with Carrots and Potatoes is a wholesome, flavorful dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken and hearty roasted vegetables in a single pan. It’s a reliable favorite that delivers comfort and satisfaction with minimal effort—ideal for busy nights or relaxed family dinners. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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