If you’re craving a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s bursting with flavor, garlic parmesan chicken wings are the perfect choice. These wings are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated with a rich garlic butter and parmesan cheese sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a family gathering, or just want a tasty snack, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings
To make these irresistible wings, gather the following ingredients:
– Chicken wings (about 2 to 3 pounds, skin-on for extra crispiness)
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup)
– Butter (1/4 cup, melted)
– Garlic (4 to 5 cloves, minced for maximum flavor)
– Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
– Seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper
– Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
– Optional: baking powder (for extra crispiness), red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings
1. Prep Your Wings and Seasonings
Start by patting your chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because dry wings crisp up better in the oven or air fryer. Next, mix together your dry seasonings—garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. If you want extra crunch, add a teaspoon of baking powder to the mix.
Sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over the wings and toss them to coat thoroughly. Drizzle olive oil over the wings and toss again to help the seasonings stick and to promote crispiness during cooking.
2. Cook the Wings
You have two great options here: oven-baking or air frying.
– Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
– Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Place the wings in a single layer in the basket, leaving space for air circulation. Cook for 15 minutes, flip the wings, then cook for an additional 7-10 minutes until crispy and golden.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
While the wings are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook gently until fragrant but not browned—about 5 minutes. Stir in chopped fresh parsley and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. This buttery, garlicky sauce is what makes these wings so addictive.
4. Toss and Broil for the Perfect Finish
Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the wings and toss well to coat every piece. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
For an extra crispy and golden finish, place the coated wings back on the baking sheet and broil them in the oven for 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning. This step helps the cheese melt and form a delicious crust.
5. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and crispy. These wings pair wonderfully with celery sticks, ranch or blue cheese dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Wings Every Time
– Use fresh Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and sticks to the wings more effectively than pre-grated varieties.
– Dry your wings: Patting wings dry before seasoning helps achieve that coveted crispy skin.
– Baking powder secret: Adding a small amount of baking powder to your seasoning mix can dramatically increase crispiness without changing the flavor.
– Don’t skip the broil: A quick broil at the end crisps up the cheese coating beautifully.
– Customize your heat: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce if you like a spicy kick.
Why Garlic Parmesan Wings Are a Winner
These wings strike the perfect balance between savory, cheesy, and garlicky flavors. Unlike spicy buffalo wings, garlic parmesan wings offer a rich, buttery taste with a satisfying crunch. They’re versatile enough for casual snacking or elegant enough for party platters. Plus, they’re easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Enjoy making and sharing this classic favorite that’s sure to become a staple at your gatherings!
Garlic parmesan chicken wings are crispy, flavorful, and easy to make—perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy wings that everyone will love!