Ultimate Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Wedges & Creamy Slaw
This comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner features juicy, perfectly seasoned oven-baked chicken drumsticks, golden crispy potato wedges, and a refreshing creamy slaw. Everything roasts beautifully in the oven while the slaw chills — making this a simple, balanced, and extremely satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a group.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40–50 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes–1 hour
Serves: 4
Ingredients
Baked Chicken Drumsticks
8–10 chicken drumsticks
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Optional: ½ tsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp honey for glaze
Crispy Potato Wedges
4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
Optional: ½ tsp dried rosemary or oregano
Creamy Slaw
3 cups shredded cabbage (green, red, or mix)
1 cup shredded carrot
¼ cup chopped parsley
Slaw Dressing
½ cup mayo (or Greek yogurt)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
1 tsp honey
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat
Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken Drumsticks
Pat drumsticks dry for maximum crispiness.
Mix olive oil, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and herbs.
Rub seasoning all over chicken.
Place drumsticks on a lined baking sheet, leaving space between them.
3. Prepare the Potato Wedges
Cut potatoes into thick wedges.
Toss with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Spread wedges on a separate baking sheet, cut-side down for crisp edges.
4. Bake
Place both trays in the oven.
Bake for 40–50 minutes, flipping once halfway.
Drumsticks should reach 165°F (74°C) and have golden, crisp skin.
Wedges should be deep golden and tender inside.
Optional glaze: Brush drumsticks with 1 tbsp honey + 1 tsp lemon juice in the last 5 minutes.
5. Make the Creamy Slaw
In a bowl, whisk together mayo, Dijon, vinegar/lemon, honey, salt, and pepper.
Add cabbage, carrot, and parsley.
Toss well, taste, adjust seasoning.
Chill until serving.
6. Serve
Plate crispy drumsticks with golden wedges and a fresh, cool scoop of creamy slaw. Add extra herbs or lemon wedges if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Yes — adjust cooking time to 35–45 minutes depending on size.
Can I make this meal healthier?
Use Greek yogurt for slaw dressing and reduce oil on wedges.
Can I air fry the chicken?
Absolutely — 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I prep ahead?
Yes! Season chicken and cut potatoes ahead. Make slaw 1 day before — it gets better.
Tips for Best Results
Dry chicken well → crispy skin without frying.
Cook at high heat (425°F) for juicy meat + caramelized wedges.
Don’t overcrowd trays — air circulation = crispiness.
Soak potato wedges in cold water 15 minutes for extra crunch.
Let drumsticks rest 5 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~620
Protein: ~32 g
Carbs: ~52 g
Fat: ~32 g
Fiber: ~6 g
Sodium: ~850 mg
Vitamin A: 80% DV
Vitamin C: 45% DV
Potassium: ~1100 mg