Tender Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Roasted Potatoes & Red Pepper

These drumsticks come out so tender they practically hand you the fork, juicy meat, crisping edges, and a bright, savory sauce that ties the whole pan together. This is a simple, weeknight-friendly roast, whole chicken legs baked alongside chunky potatoes and sweet red pepper, all coated in a lemony, spiced sauce.

The dish is an ideal main course for busy families, dinner-for-two nights, or anyone who wants a fuss-free roast with restaurant-level tenderness. Serve it with a green salad or steamed greens for an easy, balanced meal.

What are Baked Chicken Drumsticks?

Baked chicken drumsticks are a classic, rustic preparation where bone-in chicken legs are seasoned and roasted until the meat is tender and the skin is caramelized. They’re beloved for being inexpensive, forgiving to cook, and deeply satisfying.

Historically, leg cuts have been popular in home kitchens because they stay juicy longer than lean breast meat and are perfect for oven roasting. The drumstick’s shape concentrates connective tissue that, when cooked properly, breaks down and gives that “fall-off-the-bone” mouthfeel many of us chase.

Pro Tips for the Best, Most Tender Drumsticks

• Pat the skin dry before saucing because less surface moisture leads to crisper edges.
• Marinate if you can, 30 minutes helps, but overnight is even better. The acid (lemon) and oil carry flavor in and help tenderness.
• Cut the potatoes uniformly. Wedges or 2–3 cm cubes cook evenly with the drumsticks.
• Rest before serving. A 5–10 minute rest lets juices redistribute so the meat stays moist.
• If potatoes are large, you can parboil for 5–7 minutes, or cut smaller so they finish in the same time as the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make the skin crispier?

Pat the skin dry, use enough oil in the sauce so it can help brown, and finish under a hot grill/broiler for 2–4 minutes at the end.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, thighs work similarly and may cook in the same time. Adjust spacing so pieces don't overlap.

Can I make this gluten-free / dairy-free?

Yes. The recipe as written contains no wheat or dairy,  just check spice blends, because commercial curry powders can sometimes have additives.

How to Freeze

Place cooled drumsticks and roasted vegetables in a freezer-safe container or heavy freezer bag and remove as much air as possible. Label with date and use within 3 months for best quality.

How to Store

Cool leftovers to room temperature for no more than 2 hours, then refrigerate in an airtight container. Stored properly, refrigerated leftovers keep 3–4 days. Reheat in a 180°C / 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes and cover loosely if you want to keep moisture, or crisp up under a broiler for a minute or two.

How to Make Tender Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Step 1

Step 1

In a bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the sauce.

In a bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the sauce.

Step 2

Step 2

Cut the pepper and potatoes into equal sizes.

Cut the pepper and potatoes into equal sizes.

Step 3

Step 3

Add the chicken legs to the bowl, then add the potatoes, pepper and top with the sauce

Add the chicken legs to the bowl, then add the potatoes, pepper and top with the sauce

Step 4

Step 4

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes at 180°C / 350°F.

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes at 180°C / 350°F.