These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings are the definition of crispy indulgence. Baked instead of fried, they still deliver that irresistible crunch, thanks to a clever coating of baking powder and seasoning. Tossed in a golden garlic butter sauce and showered with grated Parmesan and herbs, they pack bold, comforting flavor in every bite. Whether you’re prepping for a party, whipping up a fun weeknight dinner, or simply craving something savory, these wings are sure to be a hit. They’re easy to make, customizable with your favorite herbs or dipping sauces, and destined to disappear as soon as they hit the plate. Don’t forget napkins—these wings are gloriously messy in the best way.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1.1 lbs (500g) chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
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1 tbsp baking powder (NOT baking soda)
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp garlic powder
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
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Optional: extra Parmesan and parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Lightly oil the rack.
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Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss them with baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
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Spread the wings on the rack in a single layer. Bake for 45-50 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
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In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
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Remove the wings from the oven and place them in a large bowl. Pour the garlic butter over them and toss to coat.
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Add the Parmesan and parsley, tossing again to evenly distribute.
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Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 382 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Crispy Classic with a Gourmet Twist
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings are a beloved twist on traditional wing flavors, delivering an irresistible blend of crispiness, savory cheese, and aromatic garlic. This flavor combination stands out from the typical hot sauce or BBQ glaze by offering a more refined, buttery flavor that’s both comforting and crave-worthy. These wings are often a hit at gatherings, family dinners, or game-day feasts because they strike the perfect balance between indulgent and accessible.
Unlike heavily sauced or fried wings, this version is oven-baked to crispy perfection, then tossed in a rich blend of melted butter, freshly minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The final result is a golden, cheesy coating that clings beautifully to every wing, delivering big flavor in every bite without overpowering heat.
A Brief History of Chicken Wings
While chicken wings have been around as long as people have been cooking whole chickens, their fame exploded in the 1960s in Buffalo, New York. Traditionally, wings were considered one of the least desirable parts of the chicken, often discarded or used for stock. But the now-famous Buffalo wing—deep-fried and doused in tangy hot sauce—changed that perception forever.
Since then, wings have become a staple of American cuisine and bar food culture, with endless variations. The Garlic Parmesan version gained popularity in the 2000s, largely thanks to casual dining chains and food blogs that showcased its rich, garlicky appeal without the spicy kick of hot wings. Today, it’s a go-to flavor for those who love bold taste without the burn.
Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Are So Popular
One of the biggest reasons these wings are loved by so many is their universal appeal. The absence of spicy heat makes them a kid-friendly option, while the richness of garlic and Parmesan caters to more mature palates. The crispy texture of the oven-baked wings also gives them a delightful crunch that holds up even after being tossed in the butter-garlic mixture.
Additionally, garlic and Parmesan are both strong umami ingredients—flavor enhancers that satisfy deep, savory cravings. When combined with butter and crispy chicken skin, they create a comforting, addictive flavor profile that appeals to almost everyone. Whether served with ranch dressing, blue cheese, or just as-is, these wings rarely need an introduction.
Healthier Than You’d Expect
Believe it or not, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings can be a relatively healthier option compared to deep-fried wings slathered in sugary sauces. Here’s why:
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Oven-Baked, Not Fried: These wings are baked on a wire rack to allow fat to drip off and air to circulate, giving a crispy finish without a vat of oil.
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Simple, Real Ingredients: There are no artificial flavors or preservatives here—just butter, garlic, cheese, and fresh chicken.
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Lower in Sugar: Unlike BBQ or sweet Asian wings, this recipe contains almost no sugar, making it keto- and low-carb-friendly.
If you’re watching your carb intake or simply trying to eat cleaner, these wings can fit nicely into your diet when enjoyed in moderation.
Perfect for Entertaining
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings shine brightest when shared. Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, a casual cookout, or a cozy movie night at home, these wings are always a hit. Their golden, glistening appearance is visually appealing, and their aroma—thanks to freshly minced garlic—is impossible to resist.
Pair them with crunchy celery sticks, carrot slices, and a cool dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese to round out the platter. You can also serve them alongside garlic bread, loaded fries, or a light green salad if you’re aiming for a more substantial meal.
Customizable for Any Palate
Another reason this recipe is so special is its versatility. You can easily tweak the ingredients based on preference or what you have available:
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne to the garlic butter if you like a bit of heat.
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Make it Extra Cheesy: Double the Parmesan and finish the wings under the broiler for an even crispier, cheesier crust.
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Herb It Up: Mix in finely chopped rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a garden-fresh flavor boost.
These options make it easy to create multiple flavor profiles using the same base recipe, ideal for parties or picky eaters.
Budget-Friendly and Pantry-Ready
One of the best things about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings is that you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry or fridge. Chicken wings are typically one of the more affordable cuts, and garlic, butter, and Parmesan are kitchen staples in many households.
This makes the recipe not only delicious but accessible and cost-effective. It’s a fantastic way to impress guests or satisfy your craving for comfort food without overspending or needing hard-to-find ingredients.
Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings
To truly nail this recipe, here are a few expert tips to elevate your wings:
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Pat the wings dry before seasoning. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
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Use baking powder (not baking soda) to achieve that golden crust. It helps raise the pH level and encourages browning.
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Grate your Parmesan fresh for the best flavor and meltability.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan. Make sure the wings have enough space to crisp up evenly in the oven.
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Toss while hot. As soon as they’re out of the oven, toss the wings in garlic butter so they soak up maximum flavor.
These little details make a big difference and can turn a good batch of wings into an unforgettable one.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings are more than just a snack—they’re a culinary experience. From their crispy, oven-baked texture to the rich combination of butter, garlic, and cheese, they offer a comforting yet gourmet take on a classic finger food. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or celebrations.Whether you’re new to wing-making or a seasoned kitchen pro, this recipe is a must-have in your rotation. With minimal ingredients and maximum impact, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings are proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying.
