Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lb chicken wings, split and tips removed; 1 tbsp baking powder (for crispiness); 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

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If you’re craving a finger-licking, crowd-pleasing dish that hits all the right notes, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe is your next kitchen adventure. These wings boast a crispy exterior thanks to a clever baking powder trick, enveloping tender, juicy chicken within. Then, a rich, buttery garlic sauce infused with sharp Parmesan cheese brings everything together, making each bite irresistibly savory. Whether you bake them in the oven or air-fry for convenience, these wings are perfect for game day, parties, or anytime you want a comforting, flavor-packed snack that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl filled with raw chicken wings in the center of a white marbled surface. Around the bowl, there are small white bowls and dishes holding various ingredients: light yellow cubes of butter, chopped green herbs, a small white bowl of white sugar, a clear liquid probably lemon juice, bright yellow lemon zest on a white plate, a white bowl of coarse salt, minced garlic on a white plate, a reddish powdered spice in a small bowl, mixed black and white peppercorns in a small bowl, and a small bowl of honey. There are also whole garlic cloves and some fresh green herbs scattered on the marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe. What’s wonderful is how straightforward each component is, yet every single one plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of crispy texture, bold flavor, and beautiful color.

2 lb chicken wings, split and tips removed: The star of the dish, providing juicy meat and ample skin that crisps up delightfully.
1 tbsp baking powder: A secret weapon to crisp up the skin without frying—make sure it’s baking powder, not baking soda!
1 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors within the chicken and the seasoning.
½ tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle hint of warmth and depth.
1 tsp garlic powder: Gives an additional punch of garlic flavor, layering with the fresh garlic in the sauce.
4 tbsp unsalted butter: Provides richness and the perfect base for the garlic Parmesan sauce.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential here, creating that irresistible aroma and vibrant taste.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that transforms these wings into a gourmet treat.
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with fresh herbaceous notes and a splash of green.
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle kick of heat to balance the buttery richness.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Wings for Crispy Skin

Start by ensuring your chicken wings are perfectly dry. Use paper towels to pat them thoroughly—moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Then toss them with the baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This mix not only seasons the wings but sets up the skin to become incredibly crispy as it bakes or air-fries.

Step 2: Bake Until Golden and Crispy

Arrange your seasoned wings on a wire rack atop a foil-lined baking sheet. This setup allows air to circulate under the wings so they crisp evenly on all sides. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 40 to 45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through. If you want to amp up that crunch, finish them off with a quick 2-3 minute broil. Alternatively, air-fry at 400°F for 18-22 minutes for perfectly crispy wings without turning on the oven.

Step 3: Whip Up the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

While the wings bake, melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to let it brown or burn. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes if using. This sauce is where the wings truly come to life, enveloping each bite in buttery, garlicky goodness with a cheesy punch.

Step 4: Toss and Serve Immediately

Once your wings are out of the oven or air fryer, toss them gently but thoroughly in the warm garlic Parmesan sauce. Ensure each wing is well coated so that every bite bursts with flavor. Serve them hot, straight away—these wings wait for no one!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe

A white plate lined with crumpled white parchment paper holds a pile of golden brown chicken wings covered with white grated cheese and sprinkled with small green herb pieces. Next to the wings, there is a small white bowl filled with creamy white sauce topped with tiny green herb bits. In the background, a white marbled surface features salt and pepper shakers and a striped white cloth. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a bit of finely chopped fresh parsley elevate the presentation and freshen up the rich flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of smoked paprika or freshly cracked black pepper adds a lovely finishing touch.

Side Dishes

These wings pair beautifully with cool, creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese dressing that complement the savory, buttery flavors. For more substantial sides, think crunchy celery sticks, carrot batons, or even a fresh green salad to balance the richness. Crispy fries or roasted potatoes are also fantastic companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your garlic Parmesan chicken wings platter-style on a large wooden board lined with parchment paper. Add lemon wedges sprinkled with a pinch of sea salt for a zesty contrast. You could even offer different dipping sauces in small bowls around the wings to invite guests to mix and match flavors, making it a fun, shareable experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them later for a quick snack or meal without sacrificing too much crispiness.

Freezing

If you want to save some for longer, these wings freeze well. Place cooled wings in a single layer on a baking sheet first to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To revive the crispy magic, reheat wings in a hot oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes or in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes. This method helps restore their crispy skin while warming through the garlic Parmesan flavor beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder on the wings?

Absolutely! Fresh garlic in the sauce is essential for that bright flavor, but garlic powder on the wings helps season more evenly and crisply. You can skip it, but a pinch of garlic powder really elevates the wings’ overall taste.

What’s the difference between baking powder and baking soda for wings?

For crispy wings, baking powder is the key since it creates a chemical reaction that dries out the skin and makes it crisp when baked. Baking soda won’t crisp the skin the same way and can leave a weird aftertaste.

Can I make these wings gluten-free?

Yes! This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure the baking powder and Parmesan cheese you use are free from gluten additives—always double-check labels to be safe.

Is it better to bake or air fry these wings?

Both methods work wonderfully! Baking is hands-off and gives even cooking with a nice crisp, especially with the wire rack setup. Air frying speeds up the process and delivers extra crispy skin in less time. It depends on your equipment and timing.

How do I make this recipe less spicy?

Simply leave out the red pepper flakes from the sauce, and you’ll still have beautifully flavored wings that focus on the garlic and Parmesan without heat.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes for any gathering or casual night in. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and that perfect balance of crispy and juicy is simply unbeatable. So go ahead, gather those wings and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need