Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings
Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings make an amazing air fryer dinner recipe that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. You’ll love these golden-brown wings for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Wings: Use party wings (flats and drumettes) for best results.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is superior, but pre-grated works too.
- Garlic Powder: Essential for that classic garlic flavor.
- Baking Powder: Crucial for extra crispy skin; do not substitute with baking soda.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 2 lbs chicken wings (flats and drumettes), patted very dry
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free recommended)
Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500
- Tools Needed: Air fryer, large mixing bowl, small saucepan, whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Wings
Thoroughly pat your chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is critical for achieving maximum crispiness in your air fryer dinner recipes. Place the dry wings into a large mixing bowl.
2. Season the Wings
Drizzle the olive oil over the wings. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and baking powder. Toss everything together until the wings are evenly coated.
3. Arrange in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook in batches if necessary for optimal crispiness.
4. Air Fry the Wings
Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through. Continue cooking until they are golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
While the wings are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
6. Toss with Sauce and Serve
Transfer the cooked wings to a clean large bowl. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the hot wings, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss until the wings are well coated. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve immediately as a delicious air fryer dinner.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Lemon Herb: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs.
- Smoky Flavor: A dash of smoked paprika in the initial seasoning adds a nice depth.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again, making them a great option for future air fryer dinner recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Why do you use baking powder for crispy wings?
A: Baking powder (specifically aluminum-free) helps raise the skin’s pH, breaking down proteins and creating tiny bubbles that result in an incredibly crispy exterior.
Q: Can I use frozen wings?
A: Yes, but thaw them completely and pat them very dry before seasoning. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: How do I prevent my wings from getting soggy?
A: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, and always pat the wings very dry before cooking. Serving immediately after saucing also helps.
Q: Can I make these in the oven instead of an air fryer?
A: You can, but the texture won’t be as crispy. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 40-50 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: What dipping sauces pair well with these wings?
A: Ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or even a simple marinara sauce are all great choices for these flavorful air fryer dinner recipes.
Q: Is it necessary to use freshly grated Parmesan?
A: While pre-grated works, freshly grated Parmesan melts better and offers a superior, more robust flavor.
