Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks with Potatoes combine bold flavor, crispy textures, and weeknight convenience into one satisfying meal. Juicy chicken drumsticks are coated in savory garlic, nutty parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs, then roasted alongside tender potatoes that soak up every bit of seasoning. The result is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels indulgent while staying easy and approachable.

This recipe is designed for home cooks who want maximum flavor without juggling multiple pans. Everything cooks together, allowing the chicken juices to mingle with the potatoes for a deeply savory finish. Garlic parmesan chicken drumsticks are especially loved because drumsticks stay moist, are budget-friendly, and absorb seasoning beautifully.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prep, or casual entertaining, this one-pan chicken and potatoes recipe delivers reliable comfort and irresistible aroma every time it hits the oven.

Why Chicken Drumsticks Work So Well

Chicken drumsticks are often overlooked, yet they are one of the most forgiving and flavorful cuts of chicken. Their higher fat content keeps them juicy even at higher cooking temperatures, making them ideal for roasting. Drumsticks also develop crispy skin while remaining tender inside, especially when coated with parmesan and herbs.

Paired with potatoes, this dish becomes a complete meal. As the chicken roasts, the potatoes absorb garlic, oil, and seasoning, creating crispy edges with fluffy centers.

Ingredients

8 chicken drumsticks
1½ pounds baby potatoes, halved
⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to help them crisp.
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Add chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
In a separate bowl, toss potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Arrange potatoes on the baking sheet in a single layer.
Place chicken drumsticks on top or alongside the potatoes, skin-side up.
Sprinkle parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and potatoes.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping potatoes halfway, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C) and potatoes are tender.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Garlic Parmesan Flavor Profile

The garlic parmesan combination is a classic for a reason. Garlic adds sharpness and aroma, while parmesan provides umami richness and a lightly crisp crust when baked. As the cheese melts and browns, it creates a savory coating that clings to the chicken and potatoes.

Paprika and Italian seasoning round out the flavor, adding warmth and herbal depth without overpowering the dish.

Tips for Best Results

Dry chicken thoroughly for crispier skin
Use freshly grated parmesan for better melting
Flip potatoes halfway for even browning
Avoid overcrowding the pan to promote roasting, not steaming
Finish with fresh herbs for balance

Variations and Substitutions

Spicy Garlic Parmesan: Add red pepper flakes
Lemon Garlic Version: Add lemon zest before baking
Boneless Option: Use thighs or breasts with adjusted cook time
Air Fryer Adaptation: Cook chicken and potatoes in batches at 380°F

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks with Potatoes pair well with:

Simple green salad
Steamed green beans
Roasted broccoli
Garlic bread

Leftovers reheat well and are excellent for meal prep lunches.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F to maintain crispness.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks with Potatoes deliver comfort food satisfaction with minimal effort. The one-pan approach, bold seasoning, and reliable texture make this recipe a go-to choice for busy households and relaxed dinners alike.