Family Friendly Chicken Drumsticks, Smashed Potatoes & Rocket Salad
Servings 4
Equipment
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Baking tray
- Mixing bowls
- Fork or potato masher
- Tongs or pastry brush
- Sharp knife & chopping board
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1 tablespoon roast chicken seasoning OR lemon herb seasoning
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Pinch cracked black pepper or red chilli flakes, optional
- 8 potatoes small
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cups rocket
- 1 Lebanese cucumbers cut into rounds
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese shaved
- 1 lemon zest & juice
- 1/3 cup flaked almonds toasted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan-forced).
- Place whole potatoes in a microwave-safe glass bowl with a splash of water. Cover and microwave on high for 7 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Make the spice mix: In a small bowl, combine sweet paprika, roast chicken or lemon herb seasoning, honey, and a pinch of cracked black pepper or chilli flakes if using.
- Place the drumsticks in a large bowl and coat with about two-thirds of the spice mix. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Place the par cooked potatoes on a lined oven tray and gently press down with the back of a fork or spatula to flatten slightly. Drizzle with olive oil and spoon over the remaining spice mix. Gently toss or brush to coat.
- Arrange the coated drumsticks and smashed potatoes on the same tray. Roast in the oven for 35–40 minutes, turning once, until golden and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, make the salad: In a large bowl, toss together rocket, cucumber rounds, shaved parmesan, lemon zest and juice, and toasted almonds. Drizzle with a little olive oil if desired, and toss to combine. Plate the crispy drumsticks with the golden smashed potatoes and fresh salad on the side.
Video
Notes
Cooking Tips for Beginners
- Microwave potatoes just until tender, they’ll finish crisping in the oven.
- If your tray is crowded, use two trays for better browning.
- Brush glaze generously for extra flavour.
- Use tongs to turn chicken and potatoes halfway.
Serving Suggestions
- Add a side of crusty bread or corn on the cob.
- Swap rocket for baby spinach if preferred.
- Serve with extra lemon wedges for zing.
- Pair with a yoghurt-based dipping sauce or aioli.
Freezer-Friendly
Cooked drumsticks can be frozen. Cool, then store in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Potatoes and salad are best fresh.Storage Advice
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat drumsticks and potatoes in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness. Freshen up salad just before serving.
Meal Prep Instructions
- Prep the glaze and marinate the chicken up to 24 hrs in advance.
- Microwave and smash potatoes ahead; refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Toast almonds and store in a jar.
- Assemble salad just before serving for freshness.
Substitutions
- Drumsticks: Swap for bone-in chicken thighs or wings.
- Seasoning: Use BBQ, Moroccan, or garlic herb blends.
- Parmesan: Use crumbled feta or goat cheese.
- Almonds: Try sunflower seeds or pine nuts.
Helpful Hints
- Use baking paper for easy cleanup.
- Let the drumsticks rest for 5 mins before serving.
- Double the salad for next-day lunches.
- Slice potatoes evenly so they roast at the same rate.
- Great as a no-fuss weeknight dinner with minimal dishes.
FAQs
1. Can I skip microwaving the potatoes?It helps speed things up—if skipping, roast longer (about 50–55 mins). 2. What’s a good veggie alternative for kids?
Serve with carrot sticks, corn, or mashed sweet potato. 3. Can I use pre-seasoned chicken?
Yes—just skip the glaze and roast as per instructions. 4. How do I toast almonds?
Lightly dry-toast in a pan over medium heat for 2–3 mins until golden.