Garlic Parmesan Wings are crispy and flavorful bites that are perfect for any gathering! Coated in a buttery garlic sauce and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese, they are absolutely irresistible.
Seriously, who can say no to wings? I love serving them up with a side of ranch or blue cheese for dipping. They disappear faster than I can fry them! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh chicken wings are best for the juiciest results. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using boneless chicken thighs or even cauliflower wings for a vegetarian twist!
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese gives wings a delicious savory kick. If you’re out of Parmesan, feel free to substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option that still adds flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic really elevates the sauce. If you’re in a pinch, jarred minced garlic will work fine. Just remember, it can be a bit stronger, so adjust according to taste!
Butter: Unsalted butter is my preference for control over the salt level. You can swap it for olive oil or even vegan butter if needed.
How Do I Get My Wings Crispy?
Getting wings perfectly crispy is key for this recipe! The drying and cooking methods each play crucial roles. Here’s how to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Pat the wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture; this helps them crisp up nicely.
- For frying, ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C) before adding the wings. This prevents them from soaking up too much oil and becoming soggy.
- If baking, using a wire rack allows air to circulate around the wings, creating a crisp texture on all sides. Also, flipping them halfway through helps in even cooking.
Using these tips will help you get your wings not just cooked, but perfectly crispy and delicious every time!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 lbs chicken wings, tips removed and wings separated into flats and drumettes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (+ extra for garnish)
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)
- Cooking oil for frying or baking (about 2 cups if frying)
- Optional dipping sauce: ranch or blue cheese dressing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 40 minutes for cooking. If frying, your wings will be done in about 10 minutes. Baking may take 35-45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to get everything ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Wings:
Start by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This is super important for getting that perfect crispy texture later on!
2. Season:
In a large bowl, toss your dry wings with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until they’re all evenly coated. This step infuses flavor into every bite!
3. Cook the Wings:
Now, it’s time to cook! You can choose either frying or baking:
- Frying method: Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pot until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the wings in batches for about 8-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. Drain them on paper towels afterward.
- Baking method: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Bake for 35-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re nice and crispy!
4. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
While your wings are cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic (and red pepper flakes if you like a little spice) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
5. Toss Wings:
Once your wings are done, place them in a large bowl. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the warm wings and toss them well to make sure every piece is coated in that delicious sauce!
6. Add Cheese and Garnish:
Now it’s time to sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese all over the wings. Toss gently again to evenly distribute the cheese. Add extra fresh parsley for a pop of color if desired!
7. Serve:
Serve your Garlic Parmesan Wings immediately with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese. Enjoy! These wings are crispy, full of flavor, and sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the wings before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by submerging them in cold water in a sealed bag for quicker thawing.
How Can I Make These Wings Spicier?
If you enjoy a kick of heat, you can add more red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce or toss the wings with your favorite hot sauce after cooking. Another option is to marinate the wings in a spicy sauce before cooking them!
Can I Make Garlic Parmesan Wings in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Simply preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and cook the wings for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even crispiness. They’ll turn out just as delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to get them crispy again!
