Savory Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Vegetables
This delightful dish combines baked chicken drumsticks with a medley of vegetables for a wholesome meal. The savory flavor of chicken and vegetables is enhanced with soy sauce and basil, creating a perfect harmony of tastes. This recipe is an easy-to-make comfort food that requires minimal prep work, with most of the cooking happening in the oven. The dish is perfect for those who enjoy a hearty, nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken and golden-brown vegetables makes for an appetizing presentation. It's a great option for family dinners, offering a balance of protein, carbs, and vitamins. The addition of soy sauce adds a subtle umami flavor, while basil provides a fresh herbal touch. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream for extra richness. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, pleasing both adults and kids alike. Enjoy the fusion of flavors and nutrients in every bite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 5 chicken drumsticks
- 2 small zucchini
- 3 medium carrots
- 5 small potatoes
- 1 small cauliflower
Spices and Sauces:
- 4-5 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dried basil (or fresh)
- 3 cloves garlic
- Freshly ground pepper
- Cooking oil
- A little water for baking
Preparation Time
Total Time: Approximately 100 minutes (including prep and cook time).
Step-by-Step Instruction
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Prepare the Vegetables: Start by peeling the carrots and slicing them into large strips. Heat a pan and add some cooking oil, then sauté the carrots until they turn golden brown. Transfer them to a baking dish and sprinkle with freshly ground pepper.
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Cook the Potatoes: Peel and wash the potatoes, then cut each into 6 medium-sized pieces. Sauté them in the same pan used for the carrots until they are lightly browned. Add chopped garlic and continue cooking until the garlic releases its aroma. Place the potatoes on top of the carrots in the baking dish.
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Prepare the Cauliflower: Clean and wash the cauliflower, then divide it into florets. Add these florets on top of the potatoes.
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Season the Dish: Pour a small amount of hot water over the vegetables, drizzle some soy sauce over the cauliflower, and sprinkle with basil. Cover the dish with a lid and place it in a preheated oven at 200°C.
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Cook the Chicken: Pan-fry the chicken drumsticks until almost cooked through, seasoning them with freshly ground pepper towards the end. Take the baking dish out of the oven and place the chicken on top of the vegetables. Return it to the oven.
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Prepare the Zucchini: Slice the zucchini into thick rounds and sauté them lightly until they have a nice brown color. Place them on top of the chicken, adding a bit more soy sauce and sprinkling with basil.
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Bake the Dish: Continue baking the entire dish in the oven with the lid on for about 25 minutes. Then, remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow everything to become slightly crisp.
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Serve Warm: Serve the baked vegetables and chicken warm, optionally adding a dollop of sour cream for added richness and flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Garlic Substitute: If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can substitute with onion powder for a milder flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative.
- Fresh Basil: If using fresh basil, add it towards the end to retain its vibrant flavor.
Nutritions
- Approximate Values per Serving: Calories: 382, Protein: 25g, Fats: 18g, Carbs: 30g
Variations
- Spicy Flavor: Add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat.
- Herb Mix: Substitute basil with an Italian herb blend for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dish: Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed rice.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving for added freshness.
Best Places
- The Savory Kitchen - Known for its rustic and hearty meals. Location: 123 Culinary St, New York, USA.
- Gusto's Delight - A chic spot for exquisite vegetable and meat dishes. Location: 56 Gourmet Ave, Paris, France.
- Casa de Sazón - Offers authentic flavors with a modern twist. Location: 789 Flavor Rd, Mexico City, Mexico.
- Herb & Co. - Famous for unique herb-infused dishes. Location: 101 Herb Lane, Sydney, Australia.
- Bistro Bellissimo - European cuisine with a contemporary flair. Location: 12 Bella Ct, London, UK.
- La Cucina Verde - Specializes in fresh and organic ingredients. Location: 22 Greenway Dr, Rome, Italy.
- Spice Symphony - Known for its bold and exciting flavors. Location: 73 Spice St, Mumbai, India.
- Veggie Bounty - Celebrates plant-based ingredients with creative dishes. Location: 88 Fresh St, Vancouver, Canada.
- Fiesta Flavors - Excels in vibrant and festive dishes. Location: 33 Fiesta Ln, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
- Basil Haven - Renowned for its use of fresh herbs in all dishes. Location: 404 Basil Blvd, Cape Town, South Africa.