Herb-Cream Chicken Drumsticks with Roasted Veggies & Rice
A comforting, restaurant-style meal made at home! These juicy chicken drumsticks are seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a rich herb-infused cream sauce, served with oven-roasted vegetables and fluffy steamed rice. This dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when you want something creamy, herby, and satisfying.
Recipe Overview
Detail Time
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 4 people
Cuisine Mediterranean / Western
Difficulty Easy–Medium
Ingredients
For Herb-Cream Chicken Drumsticks
8 chicken drumsticks
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 small onion (finely chopped)
1 cup fresh cream (or cooking cream)
½ cup chicken stock
1 tbsp lemon juice
For Roasted Vegetables
2 carrots (sliced)
1 bell pepper (chunked)
1 zucchini (sliced)
1 red onion (wedges)
2 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp oregano
For Steamed Rice
1½ cups basmati rice
3 cups water
½ tsp salt
1 tsp oil
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Wash and pat dry the drumsticks.
Season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, oregano & thyme.
Heat olive oil in a large pan.
Sear the chicken on medium-high heat until golden on all sides (about 8–10 minutes).
Remove and set aside.
Make the Herb-Cream Sauce
In the same pan, melt butter.
Add onion and cook until soft.
Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.
Pour in chicken stock and cream.
Add lemon juice and a pinch of herbs.
Add chicken back in. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes until tender and creamy.
Roast the Vegetables
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Toss veggies with olive oil, salt, pepper & oregano.
Spread on baking tray and roast 20–25 minutes, turning once.
Cook the Rice
Wash rice until water runs clear.
Boil water + salt + oil.
Add rice, cover, and cook on low for 12–15 minutes.
Rest 5 minutes and fluff.
How to Serve
Serve creamy chicken over rice
Add a side of roasted vegetables
Garnish with fresh parsley or coriander
Optional: drizzle a little extra cream on top
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx.)
Nutrient Amount
Calories 620 kcal
Protein 38 g
Carbohydrates 55 g
Fats 28 g
Fiber 6 g
Calcium 120 mg
Iron 4.5 mg
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of drumsticks?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to avoid drying. Simmer only 10–12 minutes.
Q2: Can I make this dish without cream?
Yes! Use:
Evaporated milk
Coconut milk
Or Greek yogurt (low heat)
Q3: Can I air-fry the chicken?
Yes! Air-fry at 180°C for 18–20 minutes, then add to sauce.
Q4: How long can I store leftovers?
Up to 3 days in refrigerator in an airtight container.
Q5: Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! Just reduce black pepper and paprika heat.
Pro Tips
Marinate chicken 2–3 hours for deeper flavor
Add mushrooms to the sauce for extra richnes