These Garlic Parmesan Wings are crispy, buttery, and packed with flavor! Coated in a delicious garlic and cheesy sauce, they’re perfect for snacking or game day!
My friends all agree: these wings disappear fast! I love serving them with a side of ranch. Just try not to lick your fingers afterwards—it’s nearly impossible! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: The star of the dish! Feel free to use a mix of flats and drumettes. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with skinless wings or turkey wings, just expect a different flavor and texture.
Baking Powder: This is key for crispiness! If you’re worried about sodium, look for aluminum-free versions. If needed, you can skip it, but the wings won’t be as crispy. Cornstarch is another option for crunch!
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the flavor better. If you want a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or a plant-based butter. It changes the flavors slightly but still gives that richness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use jarred minced garlic, but fresh really makes a difference. You could also try garlic powder—use about 1 teaspoon if you go this route.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has more flavor compared to pre-grated. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano can work as a substitute, giving a slightly more robust taste.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Crispy Wings?
Getting crispy wings is all about technique! Make sure to dry the wings well before seasoning. Pat them with paper towels to remove moisture. Using baking powder is key as it creates a crispy texture during baking.
- Preheat the oven well—425°F (220°C) is perfect. This helps to kickstart the crisping process.
- Use a wire rack over the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the wings, preventing sogginess.
- Flip the wings halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and get that golden color on both sides.
By following these steps, your Garlic Parmesan Wings will turn out crispy and delicious, perfect for any occasion!
Garlic Parmesan Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats, tips discarded
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- For Dipping:
- Optional: Ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and 50–55 minutes of baking time. So, set aside about 1 hour and 10 minutes to enjoy these delicious wings from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil to make cleanup easier, and place a wire rack on top of the sheet. Lightly grease the rack to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Wings:
In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure they’re evenly coated. The baking powder is what will help give those wings a super crispy skin!
3. Bake the Wings:
Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Bake for 25 minutes to start, then carefully flip each wing over and bake for another 20-25 minutes. You want them to be golden brown and crispy to perfection.
4. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
While the wings are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until it’s fragrant but not browned—that can make it bitter.
5. Combine the Sauce Ingredients:
After sautéing the garlic, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. This sauce is the game-changer that makes these wings so delicious!
6. Coat the Wings:
Once the wings are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the garlic Parmesan butter sauce over the wings and toss until they are completely coated in that amazing flavor.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Plate your wings and sprinkle some extra Parmesan and parsley on top for a beautiful finish. Serve them hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping, if you like.
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Garlic Parmesan Wings! They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a game night with friends!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but be sure to fully thaw them before cooking. The best way to thaw is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight. If you need a quicker option, you can use the cold water method—seal the wings in a plastic bag and submerge them in cold water until thawed.
How Can I Ensure My Wings Are Extra Crispy?
To achieve maximum crispiness, make sure to thoroughly dry the chicken wings with paper towels before adding the seasoning. Using baking powder is crucial as it promotes crisp skin, and placing the wings on a wire rack allows air to circulate around them while baking, preventing them from getting soggy.
Can I Make These Wings Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can bake the wings ahead of time and toss them in the sauce just before serving. If you do this, keep the baked wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to get them crispy again.
What Are Some Serving Suggestions?
These Garlic Parmesan Wings are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing. Pair them with celery and carrot sticks for a classic touch, or serve them alongside a refreshing salad for a balanced meal.
