Get ready to impress your family with my Savory Sheet Pan Garlic Herb Chicken Drumsticks and Potatoes! This dish is a simple yet tasty way to enjoy dinner. You only need one pan, so clean-up is a breeze. With juicy chicken and crispy potatoes, you’ll have a meal everyone loves. Let’s dive into the tasty details and make this easy dinner that will leave you coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 8 chicken drumsticks
– 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Measurement Quantities
– Chicken drumsticks: 8 pieces
– Baby potatoes: 1 pound (about 450 grams)
– Garlic: 4 cloves
– Fresh rosemary: 2 tablespoons
– Fresh thyme: 2 tablespoons
– Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
– Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
– Paprika: 1 teaspoon
– Salt and pepper: to taste
– Fresh parsley: for garnish
Optional Ingredients for Customization
– Add a teaspoon of chili flakes for heat.
– Use sweet potatoes instead of baby potatoes for a twist.
– Include sliced bell peppers or carrots for extra veggies.
– Substitute rosemary and thyme with Italian seasoning for a different flavor.
These ingredients come together to create a hearty, flavorful dish. You can mix and match these options to suit your taste. Enjoy experimenting!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Chicken Drumsticks
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat helps cook the chicken well. Grab a large mixing bowl. Add minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to make a tasty marinade.
Now, add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl. Make sure each piece gets fully coated with the marinade. This adds flavor. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up the yummy tastes.
Preparing the Potatoes
While the chicken marinates, take a separate bowl for the baby potatoes. Cut them in half if you haven’t done so. Drizzle some olive oil over them. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the potatoes until they are evenly coated. This step makes them crisp and tasty when baked.
Baking Process and Timing
Next, grab a large sheet pan. Arrange the marinated chicken drumsticks and seasoned potatoes in a single layer. Make sure they have space between them for even cooking. Place the sheet pan in your preheated oven.
Bake for 35-40 minutes. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The potatoes should be golden brown and tender. If you want extra crispy skin, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Once done, remove the pan from the oven. Let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle in the chicken. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your dish!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Flavor with Marinade
To get great flavor, you need a good marinade. Mix minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme with olive oil and lemon juice. This mix gives the chicken a fresh taste. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for 15 minutes. This helps it soak up the flavors. You can also marinate it for a few hours for a stronger taste.
Achieving Crispy Chicken Skin
Crispy skin makes your chicken more fun to eat. Bake the chicken at 425°F for 35-40 minutes. For even crispier skin, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning. The high heat helps render the fat, leaving you with that perfect crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake is overcrowding the pan. If the chicken and potatoes are too close, they won’t cook evenly. Make sure to spread them out in a single layer. Another mistake is not checking the internal temperature. Chicken should reach 165°F to be safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to be sure.
Variations
Herb Substitutions
You can change the herbs in this recipe for a new taste. If you don’t have rosemary or thyme, use dried herbs. Oregano or basil works great too. Just use half the amount if dried. Fresh herbs give strong flavor, but dried ones are handy and easy.
Adding Vegetables
Feel free to add more veggies to your sheet pan. Carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli add color and nutrition. Chop them up and toss with olive oil and salt. Place them on the pan with the chicken and potatoes. They will cook nicely and soak up all that flavor!
Spicy Variation Ideas
Want some heat? Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also use spicy paprika instead of regular paprika. For an extra kick, marinate the chicken overnight with hot sauce. It will make your dish exciting and full of flavor!
Storage Info
Short-term Storage Recommendations
After cooking, let the chicken and potatoes cool. Place them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps them fresh and tasty. If you have leftovers, make sure to seal them tightly. This helps prevent moisture loss.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze, cool the dish first. Once cool, divide it into portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze the chicken and potatoes for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, use an oven for best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and potatoes on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook. This keeps the chicken juicy and the potatoes soft. Enjoy your meal just like when it was fresh!
FAQs
How to know when chicken drumsticks are done?
You can tell chicken drumsticks are done by checking their temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the drumstick. It should be at least 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, not pink.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use other cuts of chicken. Bone-in thighs or breasts work well. Adjust the cooking time if you use larger pieces. They may need a few extra minutes in the oven. Just make sure they also reach that safe 165°F (75°C) temperature.
Are there any side dish recommendations?
Absolutely! Some great side dishes complement this meal. Try a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve rice or a warm bread. These sides balance the flavors and make the meal more filling.
This blog post covered how to make tasty chicken drumsticks with potatoes. You learned about the right ingredients, measurements, and ways to customize your dish. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions and useful tips for perfect flavor and texture. Remember, you can change things up with spices or veggies to suit your tastes. Lastly, proper storage keeps your leftovers fresh. Enjoy cooking these delicious drumsticks, and don’t forget to share your creations!
