There’s nothing quite like the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter, especially when it’s coating a batch of crispy chicken wings. These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings have a way of transforming an ordinary evening into a flavorful feast. As I tossed the wings in that delectable garlic-butter mixture, memories of game nights and family gatherings flooded my mind—these wings have become a staple in our household for a reason!
When life gets busy and fast food starts to lose its charm, this recipe is a lifesaver. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you’ll find yourself indulging in tender, juicy wings that stay crunchy on the outside. Not only are they quick to whip up, but their irresistible parmesan flavor makes them a favorite for entertaining guests. So grab your air fryer, and let’s turn dinner into a delightful gathering that everyone will rave about!
Why love Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings?
Unmatched Flavor: These wings burst with bold garlic and rich parmesan, creating a flavor bomb that’s hard to resist.
Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can have crispy wings ready in no time, making them perfect for any busy weeknight or impromptu gathering.
Crispy Delight: The air fryer guarantees an irresistible crunch while ensuring the wings remain tender and juicy inside.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal as an appetizer or party dish, these wings will delight friends and family alike, turning any meal into a celebration.
Fresh Ingredients: Using real garlic and fresh parmesan elevates the dish, making every bite feel special—way better than takeout!
Game Day Essential: They’re a crowd-pleaser at sports events, giving you the crispy goodness people crave. Get ready to impress!
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Ingredients
For the Wings
- Chicken Wings – The main protein source that creates the foundation of this delicious dish. Drumettes and flats can be used interchangeably based on preference.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavor of the wings.
- Freshly Cracked Pepper – Adds a subtle heat and depth to the overall flavor profile.
For the Garlic Butter Mixture
- Salted Butter – Adds richness and buttery flavor; perfect for coating the wings. If salt control is essential, opt for unsalted butter.
- Garlic (finely minced) – Provides a strong aroma and key flavor profile that makes these wings unforgettable. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh is preferred for the best taste.
- Avocado Oil Spray – Helps prevent sticking in the air fryer, ensuring your wings cook perfectly. Any neutral oil spray can be a suitable substitute.
For Finishing Touches
- Flat Leaf Parsley (finely minced) – Enhances the wings with a touch of freshness and vibrant color. Feel free to replace it with fresh basil or another herb of your choice.
- Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) – Contributes a rich, cheesy flavor and delightful texture to the wings. Avoid pre-grated cheese for optimum melting and flavor.
- Garlic Powder – Adds an extra punch of garlic flavor to complement the fresh minced garlic.
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings
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Preheat the air fryer to 360°F for about 5 minutes. This ensures your wings start cooking at the right temperature for optimal crispiness.
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Pat the chicken wings dry using paper towels. This step is crucial for enhancing their crispiness. Then, season them generously with kosher salt, cracked pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
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Spray the air fryer basket with avocado oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the wings in a single layer, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly.
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Cook the wings on the “chicken” setting at 360°F for 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through at the 13-minute mark for even cooking.
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Increase the temperature to 400°F and cook for an additional 5 minutes; start with 3 minutes and flip once more to achieve ultimate crispness.
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Melt the salted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. After a minute, add the finely minced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes to infuse the butter without browning the garlic.
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Grind fresh parmesan in a mini food processor if needed. This will enrich your wings with texture and flavor, making them even more irresistible.
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Toss the cooked wings in a bowl with the melted garlic-butter mixture. Add the minced parsley and ground parmesan as you mix everything together.
Optional: Garnish with extra parsley or shredded parmesan for a delightful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your own magic into this recipe, experimenting with flavors and textures that tantalize your taste buds.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a delicious, heat-packed version.
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Honey-Glazed: Drizzle honey over the wings after tossing them in the garlic-butter mixture for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
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Lemon Zest: Grate some fresh lemon zest into the garlic-butter mix to brighten up the dish with a zesty twist.
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Herb Blend: Substitute parsley with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme to introduce an aromatic layer that complements the garlic.
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Cheesy Parm-Blend: Mix in a bit of grated Pecorino Romano or mozzarella along with parmesan for a unique cheesy profile that melts beautifully.
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Buffalo Twist: Coat the finished wings with buffalo sauce after tossing in garlic butter for a tangy, fiery delight.
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Asian Flair: Incorporate soy sauce and ginger into the garlic butter for an umami-rich, Asian-inspired sauce that will surprise your palate.
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Nutty Flavor: Add crushed toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts on top for an unexpected crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings?
Enjoying wings is not just about the dish itself—it’s about creating a feast that tantalizes all the senses and brings everyone together.
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Creamy Ranch Dip: A rich, cool ranch dip complements the zesty garlic and savory parmesan beautifully, creating a wonderful contrast.
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Crispy Celery Sticks: Fresh, crunchy celery adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the wings and soothes spicy palates.
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Loaded Nachos: Top tortilla chips with cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings for a crowd-pleasing snack that pairs perfectly with these flavorful wings.
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Classic French Fries: Golden, crispy fries are the ultimate companion, perfect for dipping in any leftover garlic butter or sauce.
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Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw adds a nice bite and freshness, balancing the flavors of the wings and offering a refreshing palate cleanse.
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Zesty Lemonade: A cold glass of zesty lemonade provides a bright contrast to the buttery wings, making every bite and sip a joy.
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Mini Cornbread Muffins: Light and fluffy cornbread gives a comforting texture that complements the richness while adding a sweet warmth to your meal.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note with warm, chewy cookies; the contrast of sweet and savory makes for a delightful finish to your gathering!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can season the chicken wings up to 24 hours in advance. Simply pat them dry, season with kosher salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just preheat the air fryer and proceed with cooking the wings as directed. This method keeps the wings just as crispy and delicious, ensuring you enjoy restaurant-quality wings with minimal effort during your busy weeknights. Plus, any leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer for an easy snack!
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings
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Fresh Garlic Matters: Always use fresh minced garlic for the best flavor. Jarred garlic can taste off, so avoid it to keep your wings delicious.
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Perfectly Pat Dry: Before seasoning, make sure to pat your chicken wings dry. This crucial step helps achieve that crispy texture you’re looking for in your air fryer garlic parmesan wings.
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Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper. A good coating not only enhances the taste but also promotes better browning and flavor depth.
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Watch Cooking Time: Air fryers can vary, so keep an eye on your wings to avoid overcooking. Adjust the cooking times if needed to suit your specific model.
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Use Fresh Parmesan: Grating your parmesan from a wedge will yield the best melting properties and flavor compared to pre-grated cheese. Don’t skip this for truly amazing wings!
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Leftover Love: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat them in the air fryer for the best texture on your second go.
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings
Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they are fully cooled before sealing to maintain crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze wings in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To regain crispiness, reheat the wings in the air fryer at 375°F for about 5-7 minutes, checking occasionally. This keeps your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings from getting soggy!
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving wings out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken wings for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for fresh chicken wings that are plump and have a good fat layer. I recommend avoiding wings with dark spots all over, as this can indicate spoilage. You can opt for either whole wings or separate them into drumettes and flats based on your preference.
How should I store leftover Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings?
Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing to help maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the air fryer for that just-cooked texture!
Can I freeze Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings?
Yes, indeed! For freezing, arrange the cooked wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until frozen solid, about 1-2 hours. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to eat, reheat directly from the freezer at 375°F in the air fryer for about 7-10 minutes or until heated through.
What should I do if my wings aren’t crispy enough?
Very good question! If your wings aren’t crispy, ensure they are patted dry before seasoning and cooking. Also, check that you’ve preheated your air fryer adequately. If needed, cook them a little longer, flipping them halfway through to ensure even crispiness. Remember, every air fryer is a bit different, so adjusting cooking times might be necessary.
Are Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings safe for pets?
While the chicken itself can be safe for dogs, it’s best to avoid giving your pets wings seasoned with garlic or butter, as these can be harmful. Always consult with your vet before sharing human food with your furry friends!
Can I make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken wings and season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook them in the air fryer without needing to start from scratch—perfect for game days or gatherings!
Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings for Ultimate Flavor
Equipment
- Air fryer
Ingredients
For the Wings
- 2 pounds Chicken Wings Drumettes and flats can be used interchangeably based on preference.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1 teaspoon Freshly Cracked Pepper
For the Garlic Butter Mixture
- 4 tablespoons Salted Butter If salt control is essential, opt for unsalted butter.
- 4 cloves Garlic finely minced; garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh is preferred.
- 1 spray Avocado Oil Spray Any neutral oil spray can be a suitable substitute.
For Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons Flat Leaf Parsley finely minced; feel free to replace it with fresh basil or another herb of your choice.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated; avoid pre-grated cheese for optimum melting and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
Instructions
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings
- Preheat the air fryer to 360°F for about 5 minutes.
- Pat the chicken wings dry using paper towels and season them generously with kosher salt, cracked pepper, and garlic powder.
- Spray the air fryer basket with avocado oil and arrange the wings in a single layer.
- Cook the wings on the 'chicken' setting at 360°F for 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through at the 13-minute mark.
- Increase the temperature to 400°F and cook for an additional 5 minutes, flipping once more after 3 minutes.
- Melt the salted butter in a small saucepan over low heat, add minced garlic, and cook for about 2 minutes.
- Toss the cooked wings in a bowl with the melted garlic-butter mixture, minced parsley, and ground parmesan.
- Optional: Garnish with extra parsley or shredded parmesan.