Herb Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Mashed Potatoes & Carrots

Herb Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Mashed Potatoes & Carrots

The ultimate comfort meal — flavorful baked chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and tender carrots for a balanced, soul-warming plate.

🛒 Ingredients

🔹 For the Chicken Drumsticks:

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• ½ tsp thyme
• Salt & black pepper to taste

🔹 For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled & cubed
• ½ cup warm milk
• 3 tbsp butter
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste

🔹 For the Carrots:

• 2 cups baby carrots
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp honey (optional, for a glaze)
• Salt & pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

🔸 Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, onion powder, paprika, parsley, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the drumsticks and coat them well in the marinade.
4. Place drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil.
5. Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

🔸 Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. While the chicken is baking, place the cubed potatoes in a pot and cover with water.
2. Add a pinch of salt, bring to a boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes or until fork-tender.
3. Drain and return to the pot.
4. Add warm milk, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.

🔸 Step 3: Cook the Carrots

1. In a skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add carrots and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
3. Optional: Drizzle honey in the last few minutes for a glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

🍽️ To Serve

Plate the baked drumsticks with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes and a side of buttered carrots. Spoon a little of the pan juices from the chicken over the potatoes if desired. Enjoy warm!

❓ Q&A Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs or breasts instead of drumsticks?

A: Yes! Thighs work great and stay juicy. If using breasts, reduce baking time to 25–30 minutes and monitor closely to prevent drying out.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken overnight, and the mashed potatoes and carrots can be reheated gently on the stove or microwave before serving.

Q3: What herbs can I substitute if I don’t have thyme or parsley?

A: You can use Italian seasoning, rosemary, or oregano. Fresh herbs like basil or dill work too—just use a bit more than dried.

Q4: How can I make this dish dairy-free?

A: Use plant-based milk (like almond or oat) and dairy-free butter in the mashed potatoes and carrots. The chicken part is naturally dairy-free.

Q5: What sides pair well with this meal?

A: A fresh green salad, steamed green beans, or crusty bread make excellent additions. You could also add a simple gravy or pan sauce if you’d like.