2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Creamy Slaw:
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2 cups shredded green cabbage
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1 cup shredded purple cabbage
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1 cup shredded carrots
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½ cup mayonnaise
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2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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1 tbsp honey or sugar
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Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prep Chicken
In a large bowl, toss the drumsticks with olive oil and seasonings (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, herbs, salt & pepper). Arrange them on one side of the baking sheet.
3. Prep Wedges
In another bowl, toss potato wedges with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them on the other half of the baking sheet, cut-side down for maximum crispness.
4. Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping the wedges halfway through and turning the chicken once. Chicken is done when the internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crisp.
5. Make the Slaw
While everything bakes, mix the shredded cabbage and carrots in a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, vinegar, honey, salt & pepper. Pour over the slaw, toss well, and chill until ready to serve.
6. Serve
Plate 2 drumsticks per person with a pile of crispy wedges and a scoop of creamy slaw. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.
Tips for Success
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Pat the drumsticks dry before seasoning to help the skin crisp up.
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For extra crispy wedges, soak them in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat dry before baking.
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Make the slaw ahead of time — it tastes better after it chills for 20–30 minutes.
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Use a wire rack on the baking sheet for even cooking under the chicken.
Variations
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Swap drumsticks for chicken thighs or bone-in breasts — adjust cook time as needed.
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Add some heat by sprinkling cayenne or chili flakes into the chicken spice rub.
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Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter slaw.
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Try sweet potato wedges for a fun twist.
Ingredient Substitutions
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No paprika? Use chili powder or cumin for smoky depth.
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Use bagged coleslaw mix to save prep time.
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No apple cider vinegar? Use lemon juice or white vinegar instead.
Storage & Reheating
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Store leftovers in airtight containers: chicken and wedges for up to 4 days, slaw for up to 2.
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Reheat chicken and wedges in the oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
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Avoid microwaving the slaw — serve it cold for best texture.
What to Serve With Ultimate Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks
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Fresh crusty bread
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Pickled red onions or cucumbers for extra tang
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Grilled corn on the cob
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A crisp white wine or sparkling lemonade
Nutrition Facts (Estimated per Serving)
Calories: ~580
Protein: ~35g
Carbohydrates: ~40g
Fat: ~32g
Sodium: ~600mg
Sugar: ~5g
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen drumsticks?
Yes, but thaw completely first and pat dry before seasoning.
Q: Can I air-fry the drumsticks instead?
Definitely! Air fry at 380°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: Is this meal gluten-free?
Yes — as long as you check that your seasonings and mayo are gluten-free.
Q: How do I make the slaw vegan?
Swap mayo for vegan mayo and skip the honey or use maple syrup.
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Conclusion
This ultimate oven-baked chicken drumsticks with wedges & creamy slaw recipe gives you everything you want in a comforting dinner — crisp, juicy, creamy, and satisfying. With just a few pantry staples, you can serve up a balanced plate full of texture and flavor. Make it once, and it’ll become your weeknight go-to!
