Ultimate Crispy Garlic Parmesan Wings: Your New Go-To Homemade Recipe
Prepare yourself for an explosion of flavor with these ultimate crispy garlic parmesan wings. Each wing is fried to golden-brown perfection, delivering an irresistible crunch that gives way to tender, juicy chicken. But the real star is the luscious, buttery parmesan sauce, generously infused with an abundance of fragrant garlic. These wings aren’t just easy to make; they are a testament to how incredible homemade comfort food can be, proving that you don’t need to sacrifice flavor for simplicity. Get ready to experience a taste sensation that will have everyone reaching for more, making them ideal for game day, parties, or a satisfying family dinner.
Why This Crispy Garlic Parmesan Wing Recipe Works
There’s a reason these garlic parmesan wings earn rave reviews and become an instant favorite: they combine irresistible texture with robust flavor, all while remaining incredibly straightforward to prepare at home. This recipe is meticulously crafted to ensure maximum deliciousness with minimal fuss. We start by frying the wings in hot oil until they achieve that perfect, crisp golden-brown exterior that every wing enthusiast craves. This crucial step locks in moisture, creating a tender interior that contrasts beautifully with the crunch.
Once perfectly crispy, the wings are immediately tossed in a rich, buttery-garlic-parmesan concoction. This isn’t just any sauce; it’s a decadent blend designed to cling to every crevice, delivering an intense burst of savory, umami flavor with each bite. The generous amount of fresh garlic, combined with the salty, nutty notes of Parmesan cheese and the velvety richness of butter, creates a truly finger-licking good experience. Forget complicated marinades or lengthy baking times; this method ensures a quick turnaround without compromising on taste or texture. You’ll be amazed at how easily you can create restaurant-quality garlic parmesan wings in your own kitchen, making this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from casual weeknight meals to festive gatherings.
For true garlic aficionados, we take it a step further. While these wings are already packed with garlic goodness, serving them with an additional side of garlic parmesan wing sauce allows for an extra layer of flavor customization. And, of course, no wing experience is complete without classic dipping options like creamy ranch and tangy blue cheese dressing to complement the savory garlic and Parmesan. The combination of crispy chicken, rich sauce, and cool dips makes this a perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying dish that truly stands out.
Essential Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Wings
Crafting these delectable garlic parmesan wings requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that work together to build their signature flavor. You’ll find all the precise measurements, detailed instructions, and a convenient printable version of this recipe at the very end of this post. However, let’s take a moment to highlight the key components you’ll need to gather to bring these irresistible wings to life. Having your ingredients prepped and ready will ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking process.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitution Ideas
Understanding each ingredient’s role and knowing possible substitutions can make your cooking experience even more flexible and enjoyable. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and how you can adapt if necessary:
CHICKEN – This recipe calls for four pounds of chicken wings. You can use a mix of “flats” (wingettes) and “drumettes” or opt for one over the other based on your preference. Flats tend to be crispier, while drumettes offer more meat. Before you begin, it’s absolutely crucial to thaw your chicken wings completely and then pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Excess moisture on the chicken skin is the enemy of crispiness, as it causes the wings to steam rather than fry to that desirable golden crunch. If deep-frying isn’t your preferred method, you can easily swap the oil for alternative cooking techniques. Consider using our recipes for crispy baked chicken wings for a hands-off approach, or air fryer chicken wings for a lighter, faster option. Keep in mind that the texture will vary slightly from deep-fried, but the delicious garlic parmesan coating will still shine through.
GARLIC – This recipe embraces a generous amount of garlic, specifically 4 Tablespoons of minced garlic (the convenient kind you can purchase in a bottle or jar). This ensures a consistent and potent garlic flavor throughout the sauce. If you prefer to use fresh garlic, which offers a more pungent and vibrant taste, you may want to use a little less, perhaps 2-3 tablespoons, and adjust according to your preference. Fresh garlic’s flavor is significantly more potent. Don’t worry if some of the minced garlic seems to fall off during the mixing process with the wings; the key is to ensure the overall sauce is rich in garlic. Always taste and adjust the garlic level to perfectly suit your palate – some prefer a subtle hint, while true garlic fanatics welcome an intense punch!
UNSALTED BUTTER – Using unsalted butter is key as it gives you complete control over the sodium content of your sauce, especially when combined with garlic salt and Parmesan cheese. If you only have salted butter on hand, you can still use it, but be sure to reduce the amount of added garlic salt to avoid the sauce becoming overly salty. Butter is the foundation of our luscious sauce, providing richness and helping the flavors meld together beautifully.
GRATED PARMESAN CHEESE – The Parmesan cheese is crucial for that classic garlic parmesan flavor profile. For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese if possible; it melts more smoothly and offers a superior flavor compared to pre-grated varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents. However, pre-grated Parmesan will certainly work in a pinch. You’ll use ½ cup for the sauce and have the option to sprinkle more on top as a garnish, adding an extra layer of savory, cheesy goodness.
ONION POWDER, GARLIC SALT, & BLACK PEPPER – These dry seasonings are essential for flavoring the chicken wings before frying, providing a foundational layer of savory taste. The onion powder adds a subtle depth, while garlic salt reinforces the garlic theme and seasons the meat. Freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of mild spice and aromatic complexity. Remember that garlic salt already contains salt, so taste your wings before adding any additional regular salt. The “to taste” instruction is important here, allowing you to customize the seasoning to your liking.
VEGETABLE OIL – For deep-frying, a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point is essential. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are excellent choices. You’ll need enough to fill your skillet to about an inch up the sides, ensuring the wings are properly submerged for even cooking and crispiness. Pay close attention to oil temperature for the best frying results.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Garlic Parmesan Wings
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this delicious recipe. For a quick reference to all measurements and a printable version of the recipe, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- Season the Wings: Begin by placing your thoroughly thawed and pat-dried chicken wings into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle half of the onion powder over them, followed by garlic salt and black pepper to taste. For even coating and to keep your hands clean, put on a pair of kitchen gloves. Toss the wings vigorously, ensuring every piece is evenly coated with the seasoning blend. This initial seasoning is crucial for building a flavorful base.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep-sided skillet or Dutch oven, add enough vegetable oil to come about one inch up the sides. Place the skillet over medium-high heat and slowly bring the oil temperature up to 325°F (163°C). Using a candy thermometer is highly recommended to accurately monitor the oil temperature, as maintaining the correct heat is vital for perfectly crispy wings without them burning or becoming greasy.
- Fry the Wings: Carefully place the seasoned wings into the hot oil, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the skillet. Frying in batches is essential to maintain the oil temperature and achieve maximum crispiness. Fry each batch for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are a beautiful crisp golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the Buttery Garlic Base: While your wings are frying, use a separate skillet to prepare the luscious garlic parmesan sauce. Melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, sprinkle in a bit more garlic salt (to taste) and the remaining onion powder. Stir continuously until the butter becomes bubbly and fragrant, indicating the seasonings are infusing beautifully.
- Finish the Sauce: To the hot, bubbly butter, add the minced garlic. Stir well to combine, allowing the garlic to lightly cook and release its aroma for about 30 seconds. Next, slowly sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously. This slow addition and constant stirring are key to achieving a smooth, well-incorporated sauce without clumps. Once the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy, immediately turn off the heat to prevent the cheese from burning or separating.
- Drain the Wings: As each batch of wings finishes frying, use tongs to remove them from the oil and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows any excess oil to drain off, which is crucial for maintaining their crispiness and preventing them from becoming greasy.
- Toss and Coat: Once all the wings are fried and drained, transfer them to a large, clean bowl. Pour the freshly made garlic cheese mixture generously over the cooked wings. Use tongs or a large spoon to gently toss the wings until each piece is thoroughly and evenly coated in the rich, buttery sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: For an extra flourish and intensified flavor, sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese just before serving, if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy. Enjoy your homemade garlic parmesan wings!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Wings
To maintain freshness and flavor, store any leftover wings in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For the best reheating results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until warmed through and re-crisped, about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, reheat them in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes for optimal crispiness.
Chicken wings are safely cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This can be accurately verified using an instant-read thermometer, inserted into the thickest portion of the meat, avoiding the bone. While visual cues like golden-brown skin are helpful, a thermometer ensures they are perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
Patting your chicken wings thoroughly dry with paper towels before frying is perhaps the single most important step for achieving truly crispy skin. Any moisture on the surface of the chicken will turn into steam when it hits the hot oil, causing the skin to become chewy rather than crisp. By removing excess moisture, you allow the oil to directly crisp the skin, creating that desirable golden-brown crunch. Don’t skip this step!
For deep frying chicken wings, always opt for a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point. Excellent choices include vegetable oil, canola oil, peanut oil, or sunflower oil. These oils can withstand the high temperatures needed for frying (around 325-350°F or 163-177°C) without burning or imparting undesirable flavors to your wings.
Yes, you can certainly prepare the garlic parmesan sauce ahead of time! Simply follow steps 4 and 5, then allow the sauce to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to use, gently reheat the sauce over low heat, stirring frequently, until it’s warm and smooth again. This can save you time when you’re ready to fry your wings.
Delightful Serving Suggestions for Your Wings
While these incredibly flavorful garlic parmesan wings are a complete dish on their own, a few thoughtful additions can elevate the experience even further. Although they truly don’t need much, a side of creamy ranch or zesty blue cheese dressing is always a solid and popular choice for dipping, offering a cool contrast to the warm, savory wings.
For those who crave an even more intense garlic and Parmesan kick, consider serving them alongside homemade garlic parmesan wing sauce. This allows everyone to customize their level of sauciness. Classically, you can also pair them with crisp celery sticks and fresh carrot sticks, which provide a refreshing crunch and a natural palate cleanser between bites of rich, savory chicken.
These wings are incredibly versatile. Serve them as an irresistible appetizer at your next party, tailgate, or family gathering, where they are sure to be a hit. Alternatively, they make a fantastic main course, especially when accompanied by simple sides. Always serve them hot and fresh, and don’t hesitate to finish with an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and perhaps a dash of fresh parsley as a garnish for an added touch of elegance and flavor. Enjoy every single finger-licking bite!
More Irresistible Chicken Recipes to Try
If you’re a fan of delicious chicken dishes, you’ve come to the right place! Beyond these incredible Garlic Parmesan Wings, we have a variety of other chicken recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From fiery flavors to comforting classics, explore more ways to enjoy chicken:
- Spicy Wings
- Classic Fried Chicken Wings
- Easy Baked Chicken Legs
- Authentic Korean Fried Chicken
- Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks
I love to bake and cook and share my kitchen experience with all of you! Remembering to come back each day can be tough, that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe and start receiving your free daily recipes!
Crispy Garlic Parmesan Wings
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It
Pin It
Rate It
Pin It
Saved!
Ingredients
- 4 pounds chicken wings
- 1 ½ Tablespoons onion powder divided
- garlic salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- ½ cup unsalted butter 1 stick plus 8 Tablespoons
- 4 Tablespoons minced garlic
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese plus more for garnish
- vegetable oil for frying
Things You’ll Need
-
Large heavy bottomed skillet with deep sides for frying
-
Skillet for the garlic parmesan sauce mixture
-
Mixing bowls
-
Vinyl gloves
-
Candy thermometer for accurate oil temperature
Before You Begin & Recipe Notes
- When preparing the sauce, don’t worry if some minced garlic doesn’t cling perfectly to the wings; the rich butter and cheese mixture will ensure ample flavor.
- This recipe specifically uses 4 Tablespoons of jarred or bottled minced garlic. If opting for fresh garlic, which is typically more potent, start with slightly less (around 2-3 tablespoons) and adjust to your taste preferences for that perfect garlic punch.
- To store leftover wings, place them in an air-tight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep well for 4-5 days. For reheating, a 350°F oven or an air fryer will bring them back to crispy, warmed perfection.
- Always ensure chicken wings are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat, away from the bone, for an accurate reading and safe consumption.
- For the crispiest results, always pat your chicken wings thoroughly dry before seasoning and frying. This removes surface moisture, which is key to achieving that desired golden-brown, crunchy skin.
- When frying, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Frying in smaller batches ensures the oil temperature remains consistent, leading to evenly cooked and perfectly crispy wings.
Instructions
-
Place thawed and thoroughly dried wings in a large bowl. Sprinkle in half of the onion powder, then add garlic salt and black pepper to taste. Using gloved hands, toss to evenly coat and distribute all the seasonings across the wings.
-
Add vegetable oil to a deep-sided skillet or Dutch oven, ensuring it reaches about one inch up the sides. Heat the oil to 325°F (163°C), using a candy thermometer for accuracy.
-
Carefully place wings into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are crisp, golden brown, and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
-
While the wings are frying, prepare the sauce in a separate skillet. Melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Sprinkle in garlic salt (to taste) and the remaining onion powder. Stir until the butter is bubbly and fragrant.
-
Add the minced garlic to the hot butter and stir for about 30 seconds. Slowly sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Immediately turn off the heat.
-
Once fried, remove the wings from the oil and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain off any excess oil, ensuring maximum crispiness.
-
Transfer the cooked wings to a large bowl. Pour the garlic cheese mixture generously over them and toss thoroughly until every wing is evenly coated in the delicious sauce.
-
Serve immediately, optionally sprinkling with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish. Enjoy your perfectly crispy and flavorful garlic parmesan wings!
Nutrition Facts
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.