These Garlic Parmesan Wings are crispy and full of flavor! Coated in a buttery garlic sauce and sprinkled with parmesan, they’re perfect for snacking or game day.
You might want to make extra because these little bites disappear fast! I love serving them with a side of ranch to dip—who can resist that combo? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: The star of the show! You can use either fresh wings or frozen. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and dry them well before cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a rich flavor to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider substituting with olive oil for a different taste profile.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, pre-grated cheese works too, but fresh really elevates the dish. You could also use Pecorino Romano as a tasty alternative.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for that strong garlic kick. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you might use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder instead.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley adds freshness. If you’re out, you can skip it or use dried herbs, but fresh really brightens the dish! Chives are optional, but I love the oniony flavor they add.
How Can You Make Perfectly Crispy Wings?
Frying wings can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can achieve that perfect crispiness! Here’s what to keep in mind:
- **Pat Dry**: Always pat your wings dry before seasoning; this helps them crisp up nicely while frying.
- **Temperature Control**: Make sure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) before adding the wings. Too low, and they’ll soak up oil; too high, and they’ll burn.
- **Don’t Overcrowd**: Fry the wings in small batches. If you crowd the pot, they won’t cook evenly and will turn out soggy.
- **Double Fry**: For extra crunch, you can fry them once, let them cool for a few minutes, then fry them again for about 2-3 minutes.
These tips will help you get that crispy outer layer, making every bite delicious!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for extra crispiness)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)
- Ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing, for serving
- Cooking oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
How Much Time Will You Need?
To whip up these delicious Garlic Parmesan Wings, you’ll need about 15-20 minutes for prep and around 10-15 minutes for frying. Total time from start to finish is about 30-40 minutes, so it’s a quick and satisfying recipe you can enjoy any time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Wings:
First, pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is important to get that crispy texture! In a large bowl, season the wings with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. If you want extra crispiness, toss the wings in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Cook the Wings:
Next, heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken wings in batches for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once they’re done, take them out and let them drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
While the wings are frying, you can prepare the garlic parmesan sauce. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning, until it’s fragrant.
4. Toss the Wings:
Once the wings are fried and the sauce is ready, place the hot wings in a large bowl. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the wings and toss them well to ensure they are fully coated.
5. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Now it’s time to elevate the flavor! Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and chives (if you’re using them) over the wings. Toss them gently to mix everything together evenly.
6. Serve:
Transfer your flavorful Garlic Parmesan Wings to a serving plate lined with parchment or paper towels. Enjoy them immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Garlic Parmesan Wings!❤️
Can I Use Frozen Wings for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen wings, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator or by submerging them in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning for the best crispiness!
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Wings?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the seasoned wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and fully cooked.
How Do I Store Leftover Wings?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative with a similar flavor. You could also use a similar hard cheese like Grana Padano, but keep in mind that it may taste slightly different.