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Smoky Chicken Drumsticks with Cheesy Veggie Pasta & Fresh Slaw

A comforting dish that combines smoky chicken drumsticks with creamy veggie pasta and fresh slaw, perfect for family gatherings.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces chicken drumsticks Choose fresh, organic drumsticks for the best quality.
  • 2 cups rigatoni or short pasta Alternatively, use gluten-free pasta.
  • 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded Use a good cheese that melts well.
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • to taste Salt & black pepper Avoid too much salt to keep flavors balanced.
Fresh Slaw Ingredients
  • 2 cups lettuce
  • 1/2 piece carrot, julienned
  • 1/4 piece red onion, sliced
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise or creamy dressing Use a light coating.
  • 1 tbsp chopped chives For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, mix paprika, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning mix generously over the chicken drumsticks.
Cooking the Chicken
  1. Place the seasoned drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 35–40 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer reading 165°F (75°C).
Making the Cheesy Pasta
  1. While the chicken is baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Stir in butter, minced garlic, and mixed vegetables, letting everything melt and combine.
Prepping the Fresh Slaw
  1. In a large bowl, toss together the lettuce, julienned carrots, red onion, and creamy dressing until well-coated.
Serving
  1. On a large platter, arrange the cheesy veggie pasta as the base. Nestle the smoky chicken drumsticks alongside and spoon the fresh slaw on top. Garnish with chopped chives.

Notes

For a delightful meal, pair with garlic bread and a light white wine. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.