There’s something undeniably comforting about a tray of garlic parmesan chicken drumsticks with potatoes coming out of the oven. The aroma alone — roasted garlic, bubbling cheese, crisp chicken skin — signals that something special is about to hit the table. This recipe is the perfect intersection of simplicity and indulgence: minimal prep, everyday ingredients, and maximum flavor.

If you’re searching for a reliable family dinner, a crowd-pleasing baked chicken recipe, or an easy oven meal that feels restaurant-worthy without the stress, this dish checks every box. Chicken drumsticks are naturally juicy, affordable, and forgiving to cook, while potatoes soak up all that garlicky, buttery goodness as they roast alongside the chicken.

This isn’t just another baked chicken recipe — it’s a complete meal on one pan, designed to deliver crispy skin, tender meat, and perfectly roasted potatoes in every bite.

Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks Always Work

Chicken drumsticks are often overlooked, but they’re one of the most flavorful cuts of chicken. Because they’re dark meat, they stay juicy even with longer cooking times. When paired with garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and herbs, the result is deeply savory and satisfying.

The potatoes act like flavor sponges, absorbing drippings from the chicken as they roast. By the time everything is done, the potatoes are crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and coated in garlic-Parmesan goodness.

This recipe is especially popular because:

It uses simple pantry staples
It’s budget-friendly
It’s perfect for meal prep
It feels indulgent but is easy enough for weeknights

Ingredients

Chicken drumsticks (skin-on, bone-in)
Baby potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes, halved
Olive oil
Unsalted butter, melted
Fresh garlic, minced
Grated Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning
Paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet or roasting pan with parchment paper or foil.
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry using paper towels. This step is essential for crispy skin.
In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
Spread the potatoes on the baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space in the center for the chicken.
In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken drumsticks to the garlic butter mixture and toss until fully coated.
Arrange the drumsticks on top of and between the potatoes.
Sprinkle half of the Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and potatoes.
Bake uncovered for 35 minutes.
Remove from the oven, flip the drumsticks, and gently stir the potatoes.
Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over everything.
Return to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crisp.
Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Dry the chicken well before seasoning — moisture is the enemy of crisp skin.
Use freshly grated Parmesan, not pre-shredded, for better melting and flavor.
Cut potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Don’t overcrowd the pan — space equals crispiness.
For extra garlic flavor, add whole smashed garlic cloves to the pan.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Add cayenne or chili flakes.
Lemon Garlic Parmesan: Finish with lemon zest and juice.
Herb Lover’s Version: Add rosemary or thyme.
Cheesy Potato Boost: Add mozzarella during the last 10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with:

A crisp green salad
Steamed green beans or broccoli
Garlic bread
Simple yogurt or ranch dip on the side

It also makes amazing leftovers — the flavors deepen overnight.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best texture.
Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the skin crispy.

Fun Food Fact

Parmesan cheese has been produced in Italy for over 900 years and was traditionally aged for preservation — making it one of the earliest “meal prep” foods in history.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks with Potatoes

Crispy oven-baked chicken drumsticks roasted with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and golden potatoes for an easy, comforting family dinner.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1

Total Time 1 15

Servings: 4 people

Course: Dinner, Main

Cuisine: American

Calories: 520