Drumsticks and Mashed Potatoes

When you crave fried chicken or chicken wings, choose this healthier version. :) I love making this recipe for lunch on a weekend, when we just plan to relax at home and watch movies. The chicken is juicy and tender. It’s simple and delicious. Ingredients Chicken drumsticks (Pack of 5 or 6, organic preferably) Mashed Potatoes (bag, in the frozen section at Trader Joes) Thyme (Dry herbs section) From your Pantry / Fridge: Sea salt Pepper Extra virgin olive oil Olive oil spray Milk or Cream (about 1/4 cup) Shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese Cookware 1 Frying pan 1 Baking dish 1 Medium saucepan Steps Preheat oven at 425°F Prepare the drumsticks

• Rinse the drumsticks, pat them dry, then sprinkle them with sea salt, pepper and thyme.

• Drizzle some olive oil in the frying pan on high, and place the drumsticks, about 2 minutes per side, until they are golden on both sides

• Spray olive oil spray in a baking dish and place the seared drumsticks

• Place in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes

Prepare the mashed potatoes While the chicken drumsticks are in the oven.. Follow the instructions on the mashed potatoes package, or follow these steps:

• Over medium high temperature, place about 1/2 bag of the mashed potatoes package in the sauce pan

• Immediately, add about 1 tablespoon of olive oil

• Stir constantly, after about 1 or 2 minutes, stir 1/4 cup of milk, and continue stirring.

• Reduce the temperature to low / medium heat and cover with a lid, and keep stirring from time to time.

• Once the mashed potatoes are smooth, sprinkle sea salt, black pepper and about 1/4 cup of shredded cheese and stir, and reduce the temperature to very low, and keep covered, until ready to serve.

Enjoy! Tip: Another great side, along with the mashed potatoes, is a simple side salad (click here for the recipe). Or sweet potato fries (frozen section at Trader Joes).