Summer Delights: Easy Chicken Meals for Kids with Drumsticks, Wings, and Thighs

When the sun’s out and the days are hot, in our house, we often find ourselves reaching for fuss-free and quick dinners the whole family can enjoy. And nothing ticks all those boxes quite like high-quality chicken, especially the ever-versatile drumsticks, wings and thighs.

Here at Copas Farm Shop, we’re proud to stock free-range chicken from the Thoughtful Producer, raised with care and full of natural flavour. Whether you’re feeding fussy little eaters or the whole extended family in the garden, these cuts are a dream to cook with. So today, I thought I’d share a few of my go-to summer recipes using chicken legs (consists of thigh and drumstick) and wings, perfect for easy family dinners. 

Sticky Honey & Mustard Drumsticks

These are always very popular in my house. I marinate them in a mix of local honey (yes, you can find that on our website too!), wholegrain mustard, a splash of olive oil, and a pinch of sea salt. Let them sit for at least an hour, overnight if you’re organised, then roast or grill until golden and caramelised.

They’re sweet enough to tempt little ones, with just a touch of zing for grown-up palates. Serve them with buttery corn on the cob and a simple salad for a refreshing but satisfying meal. 

Crispy Chicken Wings with Herby Yoghurt Dip

Wings are brilliant finger food, and so much more than just pub fare. I coat ours in a light rub made from smoked paprika, garlic powder and a touch of flour, then roast them until crisp and golden. No deep-frying needed!

Pair these with a cooling yoghurt dip made using thick Greek-style yoghurt, fresh mint and a squeeze of lemon juice. The kids love dunking, and I love knowing it’s all made from wholesome, fresh ingredients.

Warm flatbreads are great with this meal too and you can warm them in the oven just before serving which is perfect for mopping up that delicious yoghurt sauce.

One-Pan Chicken Thighs with Summer Veg

This is our midweek secret weapon. Using our free-range chicken legs, I pop them in a roasting tray with chunks of courgette, red onion, cherry tomatoes and baby potatoes. A glug of olive oil, a sprinkle of dried oregano and some salt and pepper, and into the oven it goes.

About 40 minutes later, dinner’s done, so easy and no mess. The chicken turns golden and crispy, and the veg roasts beautifully in the pan juices. Add a dollop of our tangy red pepper relish on the side, and you’ve got a delicious, rustic meal that everyone’s happy with.

Whether you’re planning a weekend BBQ, a picnic tea, or just trying to keep the kids fed between beach trips and water fights or just looking for a quick meal after school, our chicken range make it easy and ideal for busy family life. 

Here’s to a season of simple, tasty dinners that bring everyone to the table—messy fingers and all.

At Copas Farm Shop, we're proud to stock a wide selection of The Thoughtful Producer's frozen free-range chicken – from whole birds to breast fillets, legs and wings. The rich, full flavour and crisp, golden skin you enjoy at the table aren’t just down to clever cooking – they’re rooted in the life the bird has lived. The Thoughtful Producer's chickens live the way nature intended – roaming freely across open meadows, growing slowly and healthily, with plenty of space and fresh air. It’s a hands-on, traditional approach that takes time and care, but the results speak for themselves. Check out our full range of poultry options of free-range chicken.