Homestyle Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Carrots & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
There’s nothing quite like a comforting meal that brings the family together. Homestyle Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Carrots and Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a classic dish filled with flavor and warmth. This recipe delivers juicy chicken, savory carrots, and creamy mashed potatoes, proving that home-cooked meals can be both delicious and easy!
Why make this recipe?
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sunday dinners. The chicken drumsticks bake in the oven while you prepare the mashed potatoes and carrots, making it an efficient one-pan meal. Not only is it flavorful, but it also brings together a variety of textures and tastes that everyone in the family will love. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
How to prepare Homestyle Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Carrots & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 🍗 3 chicken drumsticks
- 🫒 1 tbsp olive oil
- 🧄 1 tsp garlic powder
- 🧅 1 tsp onion powder
- 🌶️ 1 tsp paprika
- 🌿 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 🌿 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 🧂 Salt & pepper to taste
- 🧅 Optional: 1 tbsp chopped onions or green onions
- 🥔 2 large potatoes, peeled & cubed
- 🧈 2 tbsp butter
- 🥛 1/4 cup milk (more if needed)
- 🥕 1 cup baby carrots
- 🧈 1 tbsp butter (for carrots)
- 🍯 1 tsp honey (optional but delicious)
- 🧂 Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) 🌡️.
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add chicken drumsticks to the bowl and coat them evenly with the seasoning mixture 🍗.
- Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) 🔥.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the mashed potatoes. Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes 🥔.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and milk, mashing until creamy. Season with salt to taste 🧂🥄.
- In another pot, steam or boil the baby carrots for about 5-7 minutes until tender 🥕. Drain and toss with butter, honey (if using), and a pinch of salt.
- Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving 🍗.
How to serve Homestyle Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Carrots & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Serve the chicken drumsticks alongside a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes and a helping of sweet baby carrots. Garnish with some chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your hearty meal with your favorite beverage! 🍽️
How to store Homestyle Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Carrots & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken will keep well for 3-4 days, while the mashed potatoes and carrots can last for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. 🍗🥔🥕
Tips for preparing Homestyle Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Carrots & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- For extra crispy chicken, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to add any other spices or herbs you enjoy.
- Make sure not to overcook the potatoes to achieve creamy mashed potatoes.
- If you prefer a richer taste for the mashed potatoes, use heavy cream instead of milk.
Variations
- Spicy Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning mix for a kick!
- Vegetable Medley: Swap baby carrots with a mix of your favorite veggies like broccoli or green beans.
- Herbed Mashed Potatoes: Incorporate fresh herbs like chives or rosemary into your mashed potatoes for added flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use skinless chicken drumsticks?
A: Yes! Skinless drumsticks will work, but they may be a bit less juicy.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken beforehand and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. The mashed potatoes can also be made and reheated later.
Q: What can I serve this with?
A: This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a balanced meal!