Ultimate Mediterranean-Inspired Feast: Chicken Drumsticks, Potato Wedges, Greek Salad, Coleslaw, and Lemon Wedges

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Treat your family and friends to a vibrant, flavorful feast with this all-in-one meal featuring succulent Chicken Drumsticks, crispy Potato Wedges, a refreshing Greek Salad, creamy Coleslaw, and zesty Lemon Wedges. This recipe blends Mediterranean flair with comforting classics, perfect for a hearty dinner or a lively gathering. Each component is simple to prepare yet packed with bold tastes, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and a cooking time of 40 minutes, you can have this delicious spread on the table in under an hour. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering meal!

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Chicken Drumsticks:

• 6 chicken drumsticks (skin-on for extra crispiness)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a rich, smoky flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Potato Wedges:

• 3 large russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (about 2 pounds), cut into thick wedges
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, finely chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Greek Salad:

• 1 medium cucumber, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped into chunks
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (60g) feta cheese, crumbled (use a block for better flavor over pre-crumbled)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• Pinch of dried oregano (optional, for extra authenticity)

For the Coleslaw:

• 2 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a small head)
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
• 1/4 cup (60ml) high-quality mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar for a sharper tang)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving:

• 1-2 lemons, cut into wedges

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Oven
• Tongs or spatula
• Small whisk or fork

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Drumsticks
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a large bowl, pat the 6 chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels—this helps the skin crisp up. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil, then sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasonings into the drumsticks, ensuring even coverage. Arrange them on the baking sheet, skin-side up, and set aside while you prep the potatoes.

2. Season the Potato Wedges
Wash the 3 large potatoes thoroughly and cut them into even wedges—aim for 6-8 wedges per potato for uniform cooking. In another bowl, toss the wedges with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, dried oregano, sea salt, and black pepper until well coated. Spread them out on the same baking sheet as the drumsticks, leaving space between pieces for optimal crisping.

3. Bake the Chicken and Potatoes
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping the potato wedges halfway through (around 20 minutes) to ensure even browning. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. The potatoes should be tender inside with a slightly charred exterior. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices.

4. Assemble the Greek Salad
In a medium bowl, combine the diced cucumber, chopped tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Add a pinch of dried oregano if desired, then gently toss to coat. This vibrant salad brings a fresh, tangy contrast to the warm dishes.

5. Prepare the Coleslaw
In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cabbage and grated carrot. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated. For the best flavor, let the coleslaw sit for 10 minutes in the fridge to meld the tastes.

6. Plate and Serve
Arrange the baked chicken drumsticks and potato wedges on a large platter. Serve the Greek salad and coleslaw in separate bowls or alongside the main items. Add lemon wedges to the plate for a bright, citrusy finish—squeeze them over the chicken or potatoes for an extra zing. Enjoy this feast family-style!

Tips for a Perfect Meal

• Marinate the Chicken: For deeper flavor, marinate the drumsticks in the oil and spices overnight in the refrigerator. Cover tightly and let the flavors penetrate the meat.
• Crispier Potatoes: Parboil the potato wedges for 5 minutes, drain, and dry before seasoning and baking for an even crispier result.
• Customize the Salad: Add Kalamata olives or bell peppers to the Greek salad for more texture and Mediterranean flair.
• Coleslaw Twist: Mix in a teaspoon of sugar or a dash of mustard to the dressing for a sweeter or tangier coleslaw.
• Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken and potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This meal combines the savory richness of roasted chicken and potatoes with the fresh crunch of a Greek salad and the creamy comfort of coleslaw. The lemon wedges tie it all together, offering a versatile finishing touch. It’s a balanced, colorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, with options to tweak each component to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with warm pita bread or garlic bread for a heartier meal.
• Serve with a side of tzatziki or ranch dip for the potatoes and chicken.
• Turn it into a picnic spread by packing it with a chilled beverage.

Cultural Context

This recipe draws inspiration from Mediterranean and Southern culinary traditions. The Greek salad reflects the fresh, simple ingredients of Greek cuisine, while the coleslaw nods to classic American sides. The roasted chicken and potatoes bring a universal comfort, elevated with Mediterranean herbs and citrus.

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