Get ready for some finger-licking Garlic Parmesan Wings! These crispy chicken wings are tossed in a buttery garlic sauce and sprinkled with tasty Parmesan cheese. Yum!
They’re perfect for game day or a cozy movie night! I like to serve them with a side of ranch for extra dipping fun. Who can resist that cheesy goodness? 🧄🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Using fresh wings is great, but frozen wings work too. Just ensure they’re thoroughly thawed before cooking. If you prefer, you can substitute with drumsticks for a similar flavor!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for better taste and texture. If you need a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Olive Oil: I love olive oil for its flavor and health benefits, but you can use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil if you have allergies or just prefer a different flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best to control the salt level. You can substitute it with ghee or a vegan butter spread if you want a dairy-free version.
How Can You Get Your Wings Extra Crispy?
The secret to crispy wings is in the preparation. First, make sure to dry your wings thoroughly with paper towels. This helps to remove moisture, allowing them to crisp up in the oven.
- Arrange the wings on a wire rack over a lined baking sheet. This promotes even airflow and keeps them from stewing in their own juices.
- Cook the wings at a high temperature (400°F) to encourage browning. Turn them halfway for uniform cooking.
Trust me, the extra effort leads to wings that are delightfully crispy and mouthwatering!
Garlic Parmesan Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into flats and drumettes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 40-45 minutes for baking. So, in total, plan for about 55 minutes to enjoy these delicious wings fresh from the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps ensure your wings cook evenly. Next, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Then, place a wire rack on top of the sheet. This allows air to circulate around the wings, making them crispy!
2. Prepare the Chicken Wings:
Take your chicken wings and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting that crispy skin! Once they’re dry, put the wings in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle the salt and pepper over them. Toss everything together until the wings are evenly coated. Yum!
3. Bake the Wings:
Now, arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Make sure they’re not crowded. Bake them for 40-45 minutes, turning them halfway through for even crispiness. You’ll know they’re done when they look golden brown and crispy!
4. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
While the wings are baking, let’s whip up the irresistible sauce! In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the melted butter. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring, until you can smell that amazing garlic aroma. Be careful not to let the garlic brown.
5. Combine Sauce and Wings:
Once your wings are perfectly baked, transfer them to a large bowl. Drizzle the warm garlic Parmesan sauce over the hot wings. Toss everything together until the wings are nicely coated with that delicious sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Lastly, transfer the wings to a serving platter. For a finishing touch, sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley on top. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy your crispy, garlicky, cheesy Garlic Parmesan Wings!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning for best results.
How Can I Make These Wings Spicier?
If you like a little heat, feel free to add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix before baking. You can also toss the wings in a spicy wing sauce after they’ve been coated in the garlic Parmesan sauce!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also use the microwave, but they won’t be as crisp.
Can I Make the Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic Parmesan sauce ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it gently before tossing it with the wings. This way, everything comes together smoothly when you’re ready to serve!