Garlic Parmesan Wings

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Garlic Parmesan Wings are one of those dishes that are always a crowd-pleaser. I absolutely love making them for game day, family gatherings, or just a cozy night at home. These wings are crispy, flavorful, and perfectly coated with a rich garlic parmesan sauce that will leave you craving more. What I adore most about them is how easy they are to prepare, yet they feel like a special treat. The combination of butter, garlic, and parmesan cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile, and the crispy skin adds a delightful texture that complements the savory coating.

These wings are incredibly versatile, too! You can enjoy them as an appetizer, a snack, or even as a main dish. The garlic and parmesan flavor is bold but not overpowering, making it a hit with people of all ages. I guarantee that once you try these wings, they will become a regular part of your cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love These Garlic Parmesan Wings

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If you’re a fan of crispy, flavorful chicken wings, then these Garlic Parmesan Wings will quickly become one of your favorites. The golden brown exterior comes from a perfect balance of seasoning, and the garlic parmesan coating adds depth of flavor without being overwhelming. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make—whether you bake them or cook them in the air fryer, you’ll be able to enjoy them in no time.

The best part is that they are endlessly customizable. If you like a little heat, you can easily add red pepper flakes or a touch of hot sauce. They are also great for pairing with a variety of dipping sauces, making them the perfect option for entertaining. This dish is ideal for those who crave comfort food that’s both rich in flavor and satisfying to the taste buds.

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What Kind of Chicken Wings Should I Use?

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When it comes to making Garlic Parmesan Wings, using fresh, high-quality chicken wings is key to getting the best results. You can use whole wings that you break down into drumettes and flats, or you can buy pre-separated wings for convenience. Fresh wings are always the best choice, but if you’re pressed for time, frozen wings will work just fine too—just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.

In addition to the chicken itself, the skin plays a significant role in achieving the crispy texture we all crave. Whether you’re baking or frying, the key to crispy wings is making sure they are as dry as possible before cooking. Pat them down with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help them crisp up beautifully.

Options for Substitutions

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If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand or if you’re looking to make substitutions, there are a few options you can explore.

• Chicken Wings Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of wings, you can easily swap them out for boneless chicken tenders or thighs. The garlic parmesan sauce works beautifully with these cuts as well.
• Butter: For a lighter version, you can swap the butter for olive oil or use a plant-based butter if you prefer a dairy-free option.
• Parmesan Cheese: While freshly grated Parmesan is the best, you can also use pre-grated Parmesan or even a different hard cheese like Pecorino Romano if you want to switch things up.
• Garlic: If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used as a substitute. Just keep in mind that fresh garlic will give you a richer, more aromatic flavor.
• Herbs: Feel free to switch the parsley with other fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a different twist.

These substitutions can make the recipe more adaptable to what you have available, without compromising too much on the overall flavor!

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Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Wings

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1. Chicken Wings: The main ingredient! Fresh or frozen, they should be cut into drumettes and flats for the best texture. The skin is what helps achieve the crispy finish.
2. Butter: Adds richness and helps the garlic and parmesan adhere to the wings. It also contributes to the crispy golden texture when baked or fried.
3. Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are key to giving the wings that aromatic punch of flavor. Minced garlic will infuse the butter mixture beautifully.
4. Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan is essential for the iconic cheesy coating. Freshly grated works best for a smooth, rich flavor.
5. Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a mild, herby freshness that balances the rich, savory garlic parmesan sauce.
6. Olive Oil: A light drizzle of olive oil helps the wings crisp up in the oven or air fryer, enhancing the texture without overpowering the flavor.
7. Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the wings and the sauce. Adjust the seasoning to your personal taste.
8. Lemon Juice: A little squeeze of lemon juice adds a refreshing zing that brightens the richness of the garlic parmesan coating.

These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and garlicky goodness that makes these wings so irresistible.

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings

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Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or set up your air fryer. If using frozen wings, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels. Dry wings will help achieve a crispy texture when cooking.

If you’re working with whole wings, separate them into drumettes and flats using kitchen shears or a sharp knife. This step is optional, but it does make for a more enjoyable eating experience. Once separated, season the wings with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Wings

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For oven-baked wings: Place the seasoned wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Bake for about 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden and crispy.

For air fryer wings: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring there’s space between them for air circulation. Air fry for 20–25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

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While the wings are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Once the garlic is soft and aromatic, remove the saucepan from the heat.

Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it’s well combined. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. For a fresh touch, squeeze in a little lemon juice.

Step 4: Coat the Wings

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Once the wings are cooked and crispy, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the garlic parmesan sauce over the wings and toss them gently to ensure that each wing is coated evenly. Be sure to coat every inch of the crispy wings with that rich, cheesy sauce!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

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Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the wings for a burst of color and a hint of freshness. Serve with a side of dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese, and enjoy these mouthwatering garlic parmesan wings!

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How Long to Cook Garlic Parmesan Wings

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The cooking time for Garlic Parmesan Wings will vary depending on the method you choose:

• Oven-Baked Wings: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. The wings should be crispy and golden brown when done.
• Air Fryer Wings: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method gives you super crispy wings in a shorter amount of time.

Ensure the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to confirm they’re fully cooked and safe to eat.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Wings

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• Dry Your Wings: Pat your wings dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture. This is the key to achieving that perfectly crispy texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Cooking Surface: Whether you’re using a baking sheet or air fryer basket, make sure the wings are in a single layer with a little space between them. This allows air to circulate and helps them crisp up properly.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic offers a more intense, vibrant flavor than garlic powder. Be sure to sauté it gently to avoid burning.
• Grate Your Parmesan Fresh: Freshly grated parmesan cheese will melt better and have a richer flavor than pre-grated cheese. It helps create a smoother, creamier sauce.
• Add Heat (Optional): If you like a little spice, feel free to sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the wings after tossing them in the garlic parmesan sauce.

With these tips, you’ll be sure to get crispy, flavorful wings every time!

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking Garlic Parmesan Wings

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To ensure your Garlic Parmesan Wings turn out perfect every time, here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

1. Not Patting the Wings Dry: Moisture on the wings can cause them to steam rather than crisp up. Always make sure to dry them well with paper towels before cooking.
2. Overcrowding the Pan or Air Fryer: If the wings are packed too closely together, they won’t crisp up properly. Leave enough space for air to circulate, whether baking or air frying.
3. Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly and can go from fragrant to burnt in seconds. Keep an eye on it while sautéing and remove it from the heat as soon as it becomes fragrant.
4. Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated parmesan tends to be drier and may not melt as smoothly as freshly grated. For the best texture and flavor, always grate your parmesan fresh.
5. Underseasoning: Garlic parmesan wings need a good balance of seasoning to enhance the flavors. Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper!

By avoiding these common pitfalls, you’ll ensure that your wings come out crispy, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible.

What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Wings?

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Garlic Parmesan Wings are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides to complete your meal. Here are some great serving suggestions:

French Fries

Crispy, salty fries are the perfect complement to the rich garlic parmesan flavor of the wings. You can even dip the fries in the same garlic parmesan sauce!

Coleslaw

A fresh, tangy coleslaw balances the savory richness of the wings and adds a cool, crunchy texture.

Side Salad

A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will add some freshness to your meal.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted veggies like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts are a great way to incorporate more greens into your meal, and their roasted flavor pairs well with the wings.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a great option for those who want even more of that delicious garlic flavor. Plus, it’s great for mopping up any leftover sauce!

Buffalo Sauce for Dipping

If you like a little heat, serve your garlic parmesan wings with a side of buffalo sauce for dipping. The combination of garlicky and spicy flavors is unbeatable.

Rice Pilaf

For a more filling side, serve your wings with a flavorful rice pilaf. The light, herby rice complements the richness of the wings beautifully.

Beer or Lemonade

Wash down those delicious wings with a refreshing drink. A cold beer pairs wonderfully with the wings, or you can go with a tart lemonade for a non-alcoholic option.

These sides and drinks will turn your Garlic Parmesan Wings into a well-rounded, satisfying meal perfect for any occasion!

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Storage Instructions (and Reheating if Applicable)

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If you happen to have leftover Garlic Parmesan Wings (though that’s unlikely!), here’s how to store them for later enjoyment:

• Storing: Allow the wings to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheating: To maintain the crispy texture, reheat the wings in the oven or air fryer. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the wings on a baking sheet. Heat for 10–15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again. If using an air fryer, heat at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Reheating them this way ensures that your wings stay crispy and delicious, rather than soggy.

Estimated Nutrition

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Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for a serving of Garlic Parmesan Wings (assuming 4 wings per serving):

• Calories: 300–350 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 500–600mg

Note that these values will vary depending on the size of the wings and how much butter and parmesan you use. You can adjust the butter or cheese for a lighter version if desired!

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I make Garlic Parmesan Wings in advance?

Yes, you can prep the wings in advance. You can season and cut the wings the day before, and store them in the fridge. However, it’s best to cook them fresh to get that crispy texture. If needed, you can also make the garlic parmesan sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes! You can use boneless chicken tenders instead of wings if you prefer. The cooking time may be a little shorter, so be sure to keep an eye on them.

How can I make the wings spicier?

If you want some heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the garlic parmesan sauce or toss the wings in some hot sauce after they’re coated. Another option is to serve the wings with a side of spicy dipping sauce.

Can I cook these wings on the grill?

Yes, you can grill the wings if you prefer a smoky flavor. Cook the wings on medium heat for about 25–30 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, toss the wings in the garlic parmesan sauce.

What’s the best way to get crispy wings without frying them?

Both the oven and air fryer methods will give you crispy wings without the need for deep frying. The key is to make sure the wings are patted dry and arranged in a single layer during cooking. This allows the skin to crisp up.

Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Wings?

Yes, you can freeze the wings after they’ve been cooked. Let them cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or air fry them for 10–12 minutes.

What’s the best dipping sauce for Garlic Parmesan Wings?

Classic choices like ranch and blue cheese dressing are always popular, but you can also serve these wings with a tangy buffalo sauce, honey mustard, or even a creamy garlic dipping sauce to complement the flavors.

Can I make these wings dairy-free?

Yes, to make the wings dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative and use a dairy-free cheese. There are plenty of plant-based parmesan-style cheeses available to choose from.

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Conclusion

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Garlic Parmesan Wings are a delightful and simple dish that will impress everyone at your table. They’re perfect for gatherings, game days, or just a cozy night in. Whether you’re a fan of crispy wings or cheesy flavors, these wings deliver both in every bite.

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