Mediterranean Chicken Drumsticks with Creamy Vegetable Rice

This delightful dish combines juicy chicken drumsticks with a creamy, herb-infused rice and a medley of vibrant vegetables. The addition of fresh mint and gouda cheese brings a unique twist, while traditional Mediterranean flavors shine through. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe is both satisfying and packed with nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 700g chicken drumsticks
• 250ml cream
• 285g corn
• 345g green beans
• 455g peas
• 200g mushroom sauce
• 1 cup Bens Original Mediterranean rice
• 1 can tomato soup
• 150g gouda cheese, shredded
• 50g parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 zucchinis, diced
• 1 eggplant, diced
• 200g cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup flour
• 1 egg
• 50g butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken drumsticks with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them on a baking tray and roast for about 30-35 minutes or until cooked through and golden.
3. In a saucepan, prepare the Mediterranean rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, stir in the tomato soup, mushroom sauce, and cream. Mix well.
4. In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini, eggplant, and green beans, sautéing until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the corn, peas, and halved cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh mint.
6. Combine the sautéed vegetables with the creamy rice mixture, adding gouda and parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined and cheese is melted.
7. Serve the roasted chicken drumsticks alongside the creamy vegetable rice, garnished with additional fresh mint if desired.