If you’re looking for a reliable, no-fuss dinner that delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup, Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Potatoes & Peppers deserves a permanent spot in your weekly rotation. This is the kind of meal that feels cozy and satisfying on a busy weeknight, yet still looks impressive enough to serve to guests. Everything roasts together on one pan, letting the chicken juices mingle with the vegetables and create that irresistible, savory goodness we all crave.
This recipe is proof that you don’t need complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients to make a delicious, wholesome meal. With a handful of pantry spices, fresh vegetables, and juicy chicken drumsticks, you’ll have dinner on the table with very little hands-on time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This oven-baked chicken drumsticks recipe is designed for real life. It’s practical, forgiving, and endlessly adaptable.
- One-pan simplicity: Less mess, fewer dishes, more time to relax.
- Budget-friendly: Chicken drumsticks are affordable and full of flavor.
- Family-approved: Mild, comforting seasonings that everyone loves.
- Meal-prep friendly: Leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch or dinner.
- Customizable: Easy to swap vegetables or spices based on what you have.
Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned home chef, this dish delivers consistent, crowd-pleasing results.
Who This Recipe Is For
This recipe is perfect for:
- Busy families who want a hearty, homemade meal
- Beginner cooks building confidence in the kitchen
- Anyone who loves comforting, oven-roasted dinners
- Meal preppers looking for versatile leftovers
- Home cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal effort
If you enjoy cozy, rustic meals that don’t require hovering over the stove, this recipe was made for you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything required to make this classic oven-baked dinner:
- 8–10 chicken drumsticks
- 1½ lbs potatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 bell peppers, sliced (any color works)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Optional finishing touches:
- Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary)
- Lemon wedges for squeezing over the finished dish
Essential Kitchen Equipment
You don’t need anything fancy to make this recipe, which is part of its charm:
- Large rimmed baking sheet
- Mixing bowl (optional, for tossing ingredients)
- Measuring spoons
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs or spatula
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper (optional for easy cleanup)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Everything
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting—it crisps the chicken skin while allowing the potatoes to become tender inside.
In a large bowl (or directly on the baking sheet), combine the chicken drumsticks, chopped potatoes, and sliced bell peppers. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss until everything is well coated.
2. Bake
Spread the ingredients out evenly on a large baking sheet. Make sure the chicken drumsticks are not crowded; spacing helps them roast instead of steam.
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, turning everything halfway through cooking. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through, and the potatoes should be fork-tender.
3. Serve Hot
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of chopped herbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help the skin crisp up.
- Cut potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch flavorful juices.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—use two sheets if needed.
- Flip halfway through for even browning on all sides.
Easy Recipe Variations & Swaps
This recipe is incredibly flexible. Here are some tasty ways to change it up:
Vegetable Swaps
- Swap potatoes for sweet potatoes or carrots
- Add red onions, zucchini, or broccoli florets
- Use cherry tomatoes for a juicy, roasted twist
Spice Variations
- Add chili flakes or cayenne for heat
- Use smoked paprika for deeper flavor
- Try lemon pepper seasoning for a bright, zesty note
- Add cumin and oregano for a Mediterranean vibe
Protein Options
- Substitute bone-in chicken thighs for drumsticks
- Use a mix of drumsticks and thighs for variety
Shortcuts for Busy Nights
- Use pre-chopped vegetables to save prep time
- Line the baking sheet with foil or parchment for quick cleanup
- Toss everything directly on the pan instead of a bowl
- Double the batch and enjoy leftovers all week
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This dish is satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple additions:
Side Dishes
- Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed green beans or asparagus
- Crusty bread to soak up the juices
- Garlic yogurt or tzatziki on the side
Drink Pairings
- Sparkling water with lemon
- Iced tea or lemonade
- Light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
- A crisp lager or pilsner
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storage
Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F until warmed through for best texture
- Air fryer: Great for crisping up the chicken again
- Microwave: Convenient, though the skin will soften
Leftovers are fantastic in wraps, salads, or grain bowls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but reduce cooking time. Boneless chicken cooks faster and won’t need the full 45–50 minutes.
How do I know the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the juices should run clear.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep everything a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I freeze this dish?
Cooked chicken and vegetables can be frozen for up to 2 months, though potatoes may soften slightly when reheated.
What potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold and red potatoes are ideal, but russet potatoes work too—just cut them evenly.
Final Thoughts
Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Potatoes & Peppers is one of those recipes that checks all the boxes: comforting, affordable, easy, and endlessly adaptable. It’s a meal you can rely on when you need something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a cozy homemade dinner, this recipe delivers every time.
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Tender chicken thighs roasted in the oven with potatoes
