Garlic Herb Parmesan Wings

Garlic Herb Parmesan Wings are the ultimate appetizer or snack, combining crispy, golden-brown chicken wings with bold, savory flavors. These wings are tossed in a buttery garlic herb sauce and finished with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, creating an irresistible balance of crunch, richness, and zesty flavor. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, enjoying a cozy family meal, or simply looking for a satisfying treat, these wings are guaranteed to impress.

Unlike heavily sauced or overly spicy wings, Garlic Herb Parmesan Wings bring a sophisticated yet comforting flavor profile to the table. The herbs add a fragrant aroma, the garlic delivers a punch of flavor, and the Parmesan adds just the right amount of salty, nutty richness. What makes this recipe even better is how easy it is to make—you can prepare these wings in the oven, air fryer, or even on the grill. Each method results in crispy, perfectly cooked wings that are sure to disappear in no time.

These wings are versatile enough to be served as an appetizer, party dish, or even a main course. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, a crisp salad, or some classic sides like fries or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, Garlic Herb Parmesan Wings will quickly become a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Herb Parmesan Wings are everything you could want in a wing recipe—crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. The wings themselves are perfectly seasoned with a blend of garlic powder, herbs, and a touch of smoked paprika for extra depth. They’re baked or air-fried to golden perfection, eliminating the need for deep frying while still delivering that irresistible crunch.

The highlight of this recipe is the buttery garlic herb sauce. Made with real butter, minced garlic, and a medley of fresh and dried herbs, this sauce coats the wings in layers of flavor. The addition of Parmesan cheese takes these wings to the next level, adding a rich, umami-packed finish that pairs perfectly with the crispy texture of the wings.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the level of garlic or herbs to suit your taste, adjust the crispiness by choosing your preferred cooking method, and even experiment with different cheeses if Parmesan isn’t your favorite. Plus, these wings are crowd-pleasers, making them a perfect choice for parties, family gatherings, or any time you’re craving something indulgent yet simple to prepare.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 40 minutes
• Total time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 4-5 wings

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 26g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g

Ingredients

For the Wings

• 2 lbs chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Herb Parmesan Sauce

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish

Optional Garnishes and Serving Suggestions

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges for a burst of freshness
• Dipping sauces like ranch or garlic aioli

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Wings

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. This setup ensures the wings cook evenly and get crispy.
2. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture, as excess moisture can cause the wings to steam rather than roast.
3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Make sure the wings are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.

Step 2: Cook the Wings

Oven Method:

1. Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the prepared wire rack. Make sure they’re spaced apart to allow air circulation, which helps them crisp up.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.

Air Fryer Method:

1. Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
2. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the wings are crispy and fully cooked.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Herb Parmesan Sauce

1. While the wings are cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
2. Stir in dried parsley, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the herbs infuse the butter for another minute. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.

Step 4: Toss the Wings in Sauce

1. Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the garlic herb Parmesan sauce over the wings and toss to coat them evenly. Make sure each wing is generously coated with the flavorful sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Arrange the wings on a serving platter and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for garnish.
2. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an optional zesty kick. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra layer of flavor.

Ingredient Background

Every ingredient in this recipe contributes to the irresistible flavor and texture of Garlic Herb Parmesan Wings:

• Chicken Wings: A mix of drumettes and flats ensures a variety of textures. Wings are perfect for absorbing the bold flavors of the sauce.
• Garlic: The star ingredient of this recipe, garlic delivers a punch of robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the buttery sauce.
• Herbs: A blend of parsley, basil, oregano, and thyme provides a fragrant, earthy aroma that complements the Parmesan and garlic.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty richness that ties the flavors together. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
• Butter: Acts as the base for the sauce, carrying the flavors of the garlic and herbs while adding a luxurious richness.

Technique Tips

1. Pat Dry for Crispiness: Ensuring the wings are completely dry before seasoning is key to achieving that signature crispy exterior.
2. Even Cooking: Use a wire rack for baking or avoid overcrowding in the air fryer to allow the wings to cook evenly.
3. Layer the Flavors: Tossing the wings in the garlic herb sauce immediately after cooking ensures maximum absorption of flavor.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Plated Appetizer: Serve the wings on individual appetizer plates with dipping sauces and lemon wedges for a restaurant-style presentation.
2. Party Platter: Arrange the wings on a large platter with garnishes and a variety of dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing centerpiece.
3. Family-Style Meal: Pair the wings with sides like coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or roasted vegetables for a complete family dinner.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce. Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes superior.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce to suit your spice tolerance.
• Add Crunch: Sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs on top of the wings before serving for an extra layer of crunch.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Garlic Wings: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
2. Lemon Garlic Parmesan Wings: Add fresh lemon zest to the sauce for a zesty twist.
3. Cheddar Garlic Wings: Replace Parmesan with sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
4. Herbed Ranch Wings: Mix ranch seasoning into the sauce for a creamy, herbaceous variation.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked wings in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Use Skinless Wings: Remove the skin for a lighter version, though this will reduce the crispiness.
2. Bake Instead of Fry: Baking eliminates the need for additional oil, making the dish lower in fat.
3. Use Light Butter: Substitute regular butter with a reduced-fat version to cut calories.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Game Day: Pair with nachos, sliders, and potato skins for the ultimate game day spread.
• Holiday Parties: Include these wings on your holiday appetizer table alongside veggie platters and dips.
• Dinner Parties: Serve as an appetizer or main course with a side of garlic bread and a crisp salad.

Special Equipment

• Wire Rack: Ensures even cooking and crispiness when baking.
• Air Fryer: For a quick and easy cooking method that delivers perfectly crispy wings.
• Grater: Use a fine grater for freshly shredded Parmesan cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen wings?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness.

2. How do I prevent the wings from sticking to the baking sheet?
Use parchment paper or a non-stick wire rack to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made a day ahead and reheated gently before tossing with the wings.

4. What dipping sauces pair well with these wings?
Ranch, blue cheese, garlic aioli, or honey mustard are excellent choices.

5. Can I grill the wings instead of baking or air frying?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the garlic herb sauce.

6. Can I make these wings dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter with dairy-free butter and Parmesan with a plant-based cheese alternative.

7. How do I make the wings extra crispy?
Toss the wings with a bit of baking powder before seasoning to enhance crispiness.

8. Can I use other herbs?
Fresh or dried rosemary, thyme, or cilantro can be added for a different herbaceous flavor.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Parmesan Wings are the perfect combination of crispy, savory, and indulgent. This recipe is easy to make and loaded with flavor, thanks to the garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re preparing these wings for a game day party, a casual dinner, or a special occasion, they’re sure to impress everyone at the table. With their versatility and bold flavors, these wings are a must-try for wing lovers everywhere. Enjoy them with your favorite sides and sauces for a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious!

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