Garlic Parmesan Wings are crispy and packed with flavor! Coated in a mix of buttery garlic and rich Parmesan cheese, they’re perfect for snacking or sharing.
Who can resist these tasty wings? They’re great for game nights or just because! I love enjoying them with a side of ranch dressing for dipping—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh wings are best for this recipe. If you can’t find wings, drumsticks can be a good alternative. Just adjust the cooking time since they may need a bit longer to get crispy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch if you’re short on fresh cloves. I personally love to use more minced garlic for an extra kick!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for that cheesy finish. If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor, or use a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different twist!
Butter: Unsalted butter is used so you can control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try using olive oil instead, though the wings might not be as rich.
How Can I Ensure My Wings are Extra Crispy?
Crispy wings are one of the highlights of this dish! To achieve that perfect crunch, follow these essential steps:
- Pat the wings dry with paper towels. Damp wings lead to steam, which makes them soggy.
- Use a wire rack over your baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the wings, making them crisp all over.
- Flip the wings halfway through baking to ensure they cook evenly and don’t steam on one side.
- Baking them at a higher temperature (425°F) helps render the fat and achieve that golden color.
With these tips, your Garlic Parmesan Wings will come out deliciously crispy every time! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Wings:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, tips removed and separated into flats and drumettes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for cooking)
- For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- For Serving:
- Optional: ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, followed by 35-40 minutes of baking. In total, you’re looking at around 55-60 minutes to have these tasty Garlic Parmesan Wings ready to devour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to make cleanup easy, then place a wire rack on top. This is essential for letting the heat circulate, which helps the wings get that perfect crispiness.
2. Prepare the Chicken Wings:
Use paper towels to pat the chicken wings dry. The drier they are, the crunchier they’ll become! In a large bowl, toss the wings with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until they’re all covered nicely with the seasonings.
3. Bake the Wings:
Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the wire rack. If you have leftover olive oil or melted butter, drizzle or brush it over the wings. Then, bake them in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. Look for that golden-brown, crispy finish!
4. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
While the wings bake, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes, just until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it brown. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
5. Combine and Serve:
Once the wings are fully baked, transfer them into a large bowl. Pour the warm garlic Parmesan sauce over the wings and gently toss them to ensure that every piece is nicely coated. Serve your wings immediately for the best flavor, garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan if you like. Don’t forget the ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping!
Enjoy indulging in your crispy, garlicky, and cheesy Garlic Parmesan Wings! Perfect for a snack or a party dish!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is overnight in the fridge, or you can place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for a quicker option. Pat them dry before seasoning for the best crispiness!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re out of Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar taste. Alternatively, a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan can also work, giving a cheesy flavor without the distinct tang of Parmesan.
How Can I Make These Wings Spicier?
To add some heat, you can mix in cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes with the seasoning. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference—start with 1/4 teaspoon and add more if you like it spicy!
How Do I Store Leftover Wings?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This helps to keep them crispy!