If you are on the hunt for the ultimate crowd-pleaser, look no further than this irresistible Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe. These wings strike the perfect balance between crispy and tender, coated in a rich, buttery garlic sauce that’s elevated by fresh parsley and a generous shower of Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re gearing up for game day, a cozy family dinner, or simply craving something finger-licking good, these wings bring a burst of flavor that feels both indulgent and fresh. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe, it will quickly become your go-to for any occasion that calls for something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a vital role in creating the mouthwatering layers of flavor and perfect texture in this dish. From the savory kick of garlic to the aromatic touch of fresh parsley, every element blends harmoniously to make these wings sing.
- 5 lbs chicken wings: Patting them dry ensures maximum crispiness in the oven or air fryer.
- 2 Tbsp chicken bouillon powder: Adds a deep, savory richness that makes the wings pop with flavor.
- 2 Tbsp Montreal chicken seasoning: A blend of spices that brings complexity and a subtle smoky note.
- 2 Tbsp dried parsley: For earthy freshness and a hint of color even before cooking.
- 2 tsp garlic powder: Intensifies the garlicky vibe before the sauce even hits your tongue.
- 2 tsp black pepper: Provides just the right amount of heat to lift the flavors.
- 2 tsp paprika: Adds a warm, subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the wings.
- Salt to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all ingredients.
- 4 Tbsp oil (olive or avocado): Helps the seasoning stick and aids crisping during cooking.
- 8 Tbsp butter: Forms the rich base of the garlic sauce, delivering a luscious mouthfeel.
- 10–12 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Fresh garlic is the star, infusing the butter with vibrant aroma.
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes: Brings a gentle heat that awakens the palate (adjust to your liking).
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the sauce with herbaceous notes and color.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The perfect salty, nutty finish that ties the wings together.
- Lemon zest (1–2 tsp) optional: A zesty addition that adds a sparkling brightness to the butter.
- Crushed croutons (optional): Toss on top for an unexpected and addictive crunch.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F or your air fryer to 400°F. This high heat is the secret to crisp wings that stay juicy on the inside, setting the stage for the incredible garlic parmesan flavor to come.
Step 2: Season the Wings
In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with oil, chicken bouillon powder, Montreal chicken seasoning, dried parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, and salt. Make sure every wing is evenly coated; this seasoning mix is essential for delivering that deep, savory flavor that makes this Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe stand out.
Step 3: Cook to Perfection
Place the wings on a baking rack over a sheet pan to allow air circulation for crispiness, or arrange them in your air fryer basket. Bake or air fry for 35 to 40 minutes, flipping halfway through. The result? Wings with that perfectly crisp exterior and juicy, tender meat inside that make you want to shout, “More, please!”
Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
While your wings are cooking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and red chili flakes, sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant—you’ll know when the kitchen fills with that unbeatable aroma. Stir in fresh parsley, letting those flavors mingle for a sauce that’s rich, vibrant, and comforting all at once.
Step 5: Toss and Finish
Once wings are perfectly cooked, toss them immediately in the warm garlic butter sauce to coat every nook and cranny. Then generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt slightly with the warmth of the wings. Serve hot for an experience that truly celebrates the magic of this Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is an easy, fresh garnish that adds inviting color and herbaceous brightness, making the wings look as fabulous as they taste. For some extra indulgence and texture, sprinkle crushed croutons just before serving—they add a satisfyingly crunchy contrast to the tender wings.
Side Dishes
Pair these wings with celery and carrot sticks for a classic touch, or amp things up with creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing dipping sauces. For a heartier side, consider garlic mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad, which balance out the richness while complementing the bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper for a casual, inviting vibe perfect for sharing. Or plate them with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over before biting, adding bursts of lively citrus that contrast beautifully with the buttery sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the garlic parmesan sauce on the side until reheating helps maintain the wings’ texture and flavor the best.
Freezing
If you want to save these wings for later, freeze them in a single layer on a tray before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen wings retain their flavor well and can be stored for up to 2 months, making them perfect for last-minute cravings.
Reheating
Reheat wings in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes to bring back that crispy skin and warm the sauce without drying out the meat. If frozen, allow wings to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
FAQs
Can I use frozen wings for this Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure they crisp up nicely.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you’re out of Parmesan, Asiago cheese is a great alternative that offers a sharper, more pronounced flavor. Pecorino Romano also works well if you prefer a saltier kick.
Is it possible to make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Simply increase the red chili flakes in the garlic butter sauce or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend for extra heat.
Can I grill the wings instead of baking or air frying?
Definitely. Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor that works beautifully with the garlic parmesan sauce. Just make sure to cook them over medium heat to avoid burning the garlic in the sauce later.
How do I get the wings extra crispy?
Drying the wings thoroughly before seasoning is key, along with using a wire rack for cooking so air circulates all around. You can also finish them under the broiler for a few minutes if you want an extra crunch.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the joy of biting into perfectly crispy, flavorful wings coated in a dreamy garlic parmesan sauce. This Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe not only delivers incredible taste but is also straightforward to prepare, making it a winner for both casual get-togethers and special occasions. So go ahead and make a batch—you’ll be rewarded with happy smiles, napkins full of sauce, and requests for seconds. Your new favorite wings await!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings (8-10 wings per serving)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy, flavorful Garlic Parmesan Wings featuring a savory blend of spices and a rich garlic butter sauce topped with fresh Parmesan. Perfectly baked or air fried, these wings deliver a deliciously cheesy, garlicky bite with a hint of heat and fresh herbs for an irresistible appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Chicken Wings
- 5 lbs chicken wings, patted dry
- 2 Tbsp chicken bouillon powder
- 2 Tbsp Montreal chicken seasoning
- 2 Tbsp dried parsley
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp paprika
- Salt to taste
- 4 Tbsp oil (olive or avocado)
Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 8 Tbsp butter
- 10–12 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1–2 tsp lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
- Crushed croutons (optional, for extra crunch before serving)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare wings: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). This ensures the wings cook evenly and get that perfect crispy skin.
- Season the wings: In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with oil, chicken bouillon powder, Montreal chicken seasoning, dried parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, and salt. Ensure they are well coated with the spices for maximum flavor.
- Cook the wings: Arrange the wings in a single layer on a baking rack set over a sheet pan, or place them in the air fryer basket. Bake or air fry for 35 to 40 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through cooking to ensure even crispness on all sides.
- Make garlic Parmesan sauce: While the wings are cooking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and red chili flakes, sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon zest if using, then remove from heat.
- Toss wings in sauce and serve: Once the wings are cooked and crispy, immediately toss them in the warm garlic butter sauce until fully coated. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese. For extra texture, toss in crushed croutons right before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can swap Parmesan for Asiago cheese for a sharper flavor.
- Add lemon zest to the butter sauce to brighten the flavor.
- Crushed croutons tossed with the wings add a delightful crunch.
- Ensure wings are patted dry before seasoning to get maximum crispiness.
- Flipping the wings halfway through cooking helps them crisp evenly.
