Easy Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Flavorful Herb Corn Rice – Simple Halal Dinner

Welcome to Chef Emma's kitchen, where simplicity meets extraordinary flavor! This delightful and simple recipe brings together tender, perfectly seasoned baked chicken drumsticks with a vibrant, aromatic corn and herb rice. It's a wholesome meal that's bursting with flavor, incredibly easy to prepare, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering.

📜 Ingredients

6 halal chicken drumsticks, skin on or off

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

1 cup long-grain rice

2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (halal certified)

1 tablespoon olive oil (for rice)

1/2 cup frozen or canned corn kernels, drained

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 small onion, finely diced

📝 Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Add the chicken drumsticks and toss until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
  3. Arrange the seasoned chicken drumsticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip halfway through cooking for even browning.
  5. While the chicken bakes, prepare the rice. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Add the long-grain rice to the saucepan and stir for 1 minute, ensuring all grains are lightly coated in oil.
  7. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  8. Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and let it stand covered for 5 minutes. Then, fluff with a fork.
  9. Stir in the corn kernels and fresh chopped parsley into the rice. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  10. Serve the baked chicken drumsticks alongside the flavorful herb corn rice. Enjoy!

💡 Chef's Tips

  • For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  • You can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator, to allow the flavors to penetrate deeper, resulting in an even more delicious dish!