Mediterranean Savory Oven-Roasted Chicken Drumsticks with Rustic Potatoes & Sweet Peppers
This dish is a hearty and colorful Mediterranean-inspired meal that combines juicy chicken drumsticks with rustic potatoes, sweet peppers, and a bright tomato-lemon sauce. Everything roasts together in the oven, allowing the flavors to meld while keeping prep simple. The result is tender, flavorful chicken paired with vegetables that soak up the savory sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or weekend gathering.
Total Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
8 chicken drumsticks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables:
3 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 large onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Sauce:
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season the Chicken:
In a large bowl, toss the chicken drumsticks with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Coat evenly and set aside.
Prepare the Vegetables:
In another bowl, mix the chopped potatoes, bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, tomato paste, and lemon juice until smooth.
Assemble the Dish:
In a large roasting pan or baking dish, spread the vegetables evenly. Place the chicken drumsticks on top. Pour the sauce over everything, ensuring the vegetables are coated.
Roast:
Place the pan in the oven and roast for 45–50 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. The drumsticks should be golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). The potatoes should be tender.
Garnish & Serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
Swap the Drumsticks: You can make this with bone-in thighs or even a whole cut-up chicken. Adjust cooking time slightly if pieces are larger.
Vegetable Options: Add zucchini, eggplant, or cherry tomatoes for extra Mediterranean flair. Carrots or parsnips work well if you prefer sweeter roasted veggies.
Spice it Up: For more heat, increase the chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular.
Make Ahead: You can season the chicken and vegetables a few hours ahead or overnight. Store in the fridge and roast when ready.
One-Pan Shortcut: Line your roasting pan with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup.
Extra Sauce: If you like saucier dishes, double the broth and tomato paste mixture. Serve the extra sauce spooned over the chicken and potatoes.
Herb Upgrade: Try fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil instead of oregano for a different Mediterranean touch.
Serving Ideas: This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or a side of tzatziki or hummus.
Q&A
Q: Can I use boneless chicken instead of drumsticks?
A: Yes, but boneless chicken cooks faster. If using boneless thighs or breasts, reduce roasting time to about 25–30 minutes to avoid drying them out.
Q: Do I need to parboil the potatoes before roasting?
A: Not necessary for this recipe. The potatoes will cook fully in the sauce, but make sure to cut them into evenly sized chunks so they roast evenly.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free and gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. The recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free, so no substitutions are needed.
Q: How do I know the chicken is cooked through?
A: Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the drumstick.
Q: Can I prepare this in advance?
A: Yes. You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, then assemble and roast when you’re ready.
Nutrition
(per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~420
Protein: 30 g
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugars: 6 g
Sodium: ~620 mg
(Values are approximate and will vary based on portion sizes and ingredient brands.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Savory Oven-Roasted Chicken Drumsticks with Rustic Potatoes & Sweet Peppers is a wholesome, one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor and color. The chicken comes out juicy with a fragrant spice blend, while the vegetables soak up the lemony tomato sauce. It’s hearty enough to serve on its own but also pairs beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread. Simple to prepare, it’s an ideal recipe for both weeknight dinners and relaxed weekend meals.