Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings
When it comes to game day snacks, party appetizers, or even a fun weeknight dinner, nothing hits the spot quite like garlic parmesan chicken wings. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and tossed in a buttery, garlicky Parmesan coating, these wings are pure comfort food with a gourmet twist. Unlike traditional hot wings, this recipe swaps fiery heat for a savory, cheesy richness that everyone from kids to adults can enjoy. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing wing recipe that’s easy to prepare yet impressive on the table, these garlic parmesan chicken wings are about to become your new go-to.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these golden, flavorful wings:
- 2 lb. bone-in chicken wings
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Caesar dressing, for dipping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Wings
Start by arranging a rack in the center of your oven and preheating it to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack inside a large, rimmed baking sheet. The rack is key—it allows hot air to circulate around the wings, helping them bake up extra crispy without deep frying.
In a large bowl, toss the wings with vegetable oil, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 2: Bake to Perfection
Spread the wings out evenly on the wire rack, making sure they’re not overcrowded (this helps them crisp up instead of steaming). Bake for about 50 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and deliciously crispy.
Step 3: Make the Garlic-Parmesan Sauce
While the wings are baking, prepare the flavorful sauce. In a large bowl, stir together the minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes. The result is a savory, fragrant mixture that will coat every wing with irresistible flavor.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
When the wings are ready, transfer them straight from the oven into the bowl of garlic-parmesan sauce. Toss well until every wing is coated. Arrange the wings on a platter, sprinkle with extra Parmesan for good measure, and serve with a side of Caesar dressing for dipping.
About the Recipe
Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Are So Popular
The combination of garlic and Parmesan is timeless—rich, savory, and satisfying. Unlike spicy buffalo wings, these wings appeal to a broader audience, making them perfect for family gatherings or parties where not everyone loves heat.
Variations to Try
- Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings: Short on time? Pop the wings in an air fryer at 380°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll turn out just as crispy with less oil.
- Boneless Garlic Parmesan Wings: Use boneless chicken breast pieces instead of wings. Coat them the same way and bake until golden.
- Extra Cheesy Twist: Mix a little mozzarella or Romano cheese into the sauce for a richer flavor.
Tips for Success
- Pat the wings dry with paper towels before seasoning—this helps them crisp up in the oven.
- Don’t skip the wire rack. It’s the secret to crispy oven-baked wings without frying.
- Add heat if you like spice by increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These garlic parmesan chicken wings are incredibly versatile. Serve them as:
- A party appetizer alongside dips like Caesar, ranch, or blue cheese.
- A main dish with sides such as roasted potatoes, garlic bread, or a fresh Caesar salad.
- A game day snack with an assortment of other wings, sliders, and chips.
Nutrition Insights
Each serving of these wings comes in at around 585 calories, making them a hearty option for a meal or a satisfying indulgence as a snack. Since they’re baked instead of fried, they’re lighter than traditional wings but still deliver the same irresistible crunch.
Conclusion
If you’re craving a wing recipe that’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress, these garlic parmesan chicken wings are the answer. With their crispy baked skin, buttery garlic sauce, and generous dusting of Parmesan, they’re impossible to resist. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or just treating yourself, this recipe proves that you don’t need to fry wings to get restaurant-quality flavor at home.
So preheat that oven, grab your Parmesan, and get ready to enjoy the best garlic parmesan chicken wings you’ve ever had. And don’t forget—if you make this recipe, share it with friends and let us know how it turned out!
