Loaded Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Herbed Potatoes & Peppers

Why Make This Recipe
Loaded Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Herbed Potatoes & Peppers is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of chicken, vegetables, and spices in one pan. It’s not only easy to make but also packed with goodness. This recipe works well for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. The juicy drumsticks paired with herbed potatoes and colorful peppers make for a delicious and colorful meal that everyone will love!
How to Make Loaded Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Herbed Potatoes & Peppers
Ingredients:
- 6–8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 1/2 lbs baby or Yukon gold potatoes, quartered
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a deep roasting pan.
- In a large bowl, toss together the potatoes, bell peppers, and onion with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, half of the herbs and spices, garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread this mixture evenly in the pan.
- Rub the chicken drumsticks with the remaining olive oil and the rest of the seasoning blend. Nestle the drumsticks over the vegetables in the pan.
- Pour the chicken broth and balsamic vinegar around the base of the pan.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil, baste the chicken, and bake uncovered for another 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with a ladle of the flavorful pan juices.
How to Serve Loaded Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Herbed Potatoes & Peppers
This dish is perfect served hot, right from the oven. You can plate the chicken drumsticks alongside the herbed potatoes and peppers for a balanced meal. Drizzle some of the pan juices over everything for added flavor. It pairs well with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up the juices.
How to Store Loaded Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Herbed Potatoes & Peppers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow it to cool down before sealing the container. To reheat, simply place in a microwave or a preheated oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Loaded Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Herbed Potatoes & Peppers
- Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with oil and seasoning for the best flavor.
- You can add more vegetables such as carrots or zucchini if you like.
- If you prefer crispy skin, broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end of cooking.
Variation
Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Adding sweet potatoes or different kinds of peppers will give a unique twist to the dish.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken instead of drumsticks?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or breasts. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since these cuts may cook differently.
Is it necessary to use balsamic vinegar?
No, the balsamic vinegar is optional. It adds depth to the flavor, but you can skip it if you prefer.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.