Better Than Fried! These Garlic Parmesan Wings Are Insanely Crispy

ByRelish The Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Wings
Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Wings – Crispy Baked Recipe | Easy Kitchen
Welcome to the ultimate wing experience! These garlic parmesan wings are the perfect combination of crispy exterior and juicy interior, topped with an absolutely irresistible creamy garlic and parmesan coating. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a delicious appetizer, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. Let’s get started!
American Cuisine
Appetizer

Recipe Details

Cuisine
American
Course
Appetizer
Difficulty
Easy
Servings
4
Prep Time
1 Hour 15 Min
Cook Time
25 Min
Total Time
1 Hour 40 Min
Calories (Per Serving)
320 Cal

Ingredients for Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Wings

For the Marinade:

  • 2 lbs (approximately 900g) fresh chicken wings, cleaned and patted dry
  • 6 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced or crushed
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt or kosher salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder for enhanced flavor intensity

For the Garlic Parmesan Coating:

  • 0.5 cup (120g) freshly grated parmesan cheese (not pre-grated for best results)
  • 4-5 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced (add more for garlic lovers)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons melted butter for extra creaminess

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate

  1. Start by cleaning your chicken wings thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them completely dry with paper towels—moisture is the enemy of crispy wings.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the freshly minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix these ingredients well to create an even marinade.
  3. Add the dried chicken wings to the bowl and massage the garlic marinade into every piece. Ensure each wing is thoroughly coated with the seasoning mixture. This step is crucial for maximum flavor penetration.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For even better results, marinate for up to 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully develop and infuse into the meat.
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Step 2: Prepare for Baking

  1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and allow it to fully heat for about 10-15 minutes.
  2. Line a large baking tray with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, or use parchment paper for a healthier option.
  3. Arrange the marinated chicken wings on the prepared tray with adequate space between each piece. Avoid crowding the tray—proper spacing ensures even cooking and allows hot air to circulate around each wing.
  4. If you prefer extra crispy wings, you can place a second baking tray underneath to catch any drippings and promote even browning.
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Step 3: Bake to Perfection

  1. Place the tray in the preheated oven on the middle rack.
  2. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the wings achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and are crispy on the outside.
  3. For extra crispy wings, you can flip them halfway through cooking (around the 12-13 minute mark) to ensure even crisping on both sides.
  4. The wings are done when the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) when measured with a meat thermometer.
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Step 4: Create the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Coating

  1. While the wings are baking, prepare your coating. In a separate bowl, combine the freshly grated parmesan cheese, minced fresh garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper.
  2. If using butter, melt it gently and have it ready to add to the coating.
  3. Once the wings are perfectly golden and crispy, carefully remove them from the oven using oven mitts or tongs.
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Step 5: The Magic Happens

  1. Transfer the piping hot wings directly into a large mixing bowl. Speed is essential here—the residual heat will help melt the cheese and create that irresistible creamy coating.
  2. Immediately add the garlic parmesan mixture to the hot wings.
  3. If using melted butter, drizzle it over the wings for added creaminess and richness.
  4. Using tongs or two large spoons, toss the wings continuously for 2-3 minutes until every piece is evenly coated. The heat from the wings will soften the cheese and create a beautiful, creamy sauce that clings to each wing.
  5. Ensure all wings are thoroughly coated with the garlic parmesan mixture for maximum flavor in every bite.
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Step 6: Serve Immediately

  1. Transfer the finished wings to a serving platter immediately.
  2. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired for extra visual appeal.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy while the creamy coating is at its peak.
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💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Wings Every Time
  • Choose Quality Wings: Look for chicken wings that are roughly the same size for even cooking. Fresh wings are preferable to frozen.
  • Pat Dry is Key: Moisture prevents crisping. Always pat the wings completely dry with paper towels before marinating.
  • Don’t Skip Marinating: This step is non-negotiable for maximum flavor. The longer you marinate, the better the taste.
  • Temperature Control: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. Variations can affect cooking time.
  • Hot Bowl Trick: Warm the serving bowl before tossing the wings. This helps maintain the creamy texture of the coating.
  • Fresh Garlic Matters: Always use fresh garlic instead of jarred for the best, most authentic flavor profile.
  • Parmesan Quality: Freshly grated parmesan cheese melts better and tastes superior to pre-grated varieties.
  • Extra Crispy Option: For ultra-crispy wings, increase the oven temperature to 200°C (400°F) and reduce cooking time to 18-20 minutes.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare and marinate the wings up to 24 hours in advance. Just bake when ready to serve.
  • Sauce Consistency: If your coating seems too dry, add a tablespoon of melted butter. If too wet, add more grated parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Information per Serving

Calories: 320 | Protein: 35g | Fat: 18g | Carbohydrates: 2g | Sodium: 580mg | Fiber: 0g

Why These Garlic Parmesan Wings Are Special

This recipe combines the best of both worlds: a healthy baking method instead of deep frying, with an incredibly flavorful garlic parmesan coating that rivals any restaurant version. The key to success lies in three crucial elements. First, the marinating process allows the garlic and seasonings to penetrate deeply into the meat, creating flavor from the inside out. Second, oven-baking at the right temperature produces wings that are crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. Third, the timing of the garlic parmesan toss is critical—you want to add the topping to the piping hot wings so the cheese begins to melt and create that creamy coating everyone loves.

Unlike traditional deep-fried wings that can be greasy, these baked wings are lighter but still incredibly satisfying. The parmesan coating adds a savory umami flavor that keeps people coming back for more. Whether you’re preparing these for game day, a party, a weeknight dinner, or just satisfying a craving, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every single time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Parmesan Wings

Can I use frozen wings for this recipe? +
Yes, you can use frozen wings, but they must be completely thawed and patted dry before marinating. To thaw frozen wings safely, place them in the refrigerator overnight (6-8 hours) or use the cold water method by sealing them in a bag and submerging in cold water for 30-60 minutes, changing the water every 15 minutes. Thawing in the refrigerator is preferred as it helps preserve quality. Frozen wings that are not fully thawed will take longer to cook and may not get as crispy.
How long can I store leftover wings? +
Leftover garlic parmesan wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking tray and warm in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 8-10 minutes until heated through. This method helps restore some of the crispiness. Avoid using the microwave as it tends to make wings soggy. You can also freeze leftover wings in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make this recipe with chicken drumsticks or breasts? +
Absolutely! While wings are traditional, you can definitely use chicken drumsticks, thighs, or even boneless chicken breasts. However, cooking times will vary. Drumsticks typically need 30-35 minutes, thighs need 25-30 minutes, and boneless breasts need only 20-25 minutes. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) before removing from the oven. The marinating and garlic parmesan coating method works beautifully with any chicken cut.
Is this recipe gluten-free? +
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free. All the ingredients—chicken wings, garlic, salt, pepper, garlic powder, parmesan cheese, and parsley—are gluten-free. However, if using pre-packaged garlic powder, always check the label to ensure it hasn’t been processed with wheat or other gluten-containing ingredients. If you’re cooking for someone with celiac disease, make sure to use certified gluten-free products and avoid any cross-contamination during preparation.
Can I prepare the wings in advance? +
Yes, this is one of the advantages of this recipe! You can marinate the wings for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator, which actually improves the flavor. Simply keep them in a covered container or sealed bag. When you’re ready to serve, remove them from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before baking to bring them closer to room temperature, then follow the baking instructions as normal. This makes it perfect for entertaining since you can do all the prep work the day before.
What can I serve with these wings? +
Garlic parmesan wings pair wonderfully with many sides and dips. Consider serving with ranch dip, blue cheese dip, garlic aioli, or a simple lemon herb dip for contrast. For sides, try crispy fries, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Celery and carrot sticks are classic wing accompaniments. You can also serve them over pasta or rice for a heartier meal. The creamy garlic parmesan coating is rich, so lighter sides work well to balance the dish.
My wings came out dry. What went wrong? +
Dry wings are usually the result of overcooking. Wing size varies, so cooking times can differ. Next time, use a meat thermometer and remove wings when the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F)—not higher. Additionally, make sure your oven temperature is accurate. Use an oven thermometer to verify. Also ensure the wings are completely patted dry before marinating, and don’t overcrowd the baking tray as this can steam rather than roast the wings. If wings still seem dry, the garlic parmesan coating and any drippings will add moisture and flavor.
Can I make these wings spicy? +
Definitely! To add heat to this recipe, incorporate cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce into the marinade. Add 0.5-1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade, or 0.5 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a milder heat. For the coating, you can also add 0.25-0.5 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the parmesan mixture. Start with less and add more to your taste preference. Some people also add a few dashes of hot sauce to the coating mixture for both heat and extra flavor. Adjust quantities based on your spice tolerance.
How many wings does this recipe make? +
This recipe uses 2 lbs of chicken wings, which typically yields 8-12 whole wings depending on their size (a whole wing contains three sections: flats, drumettes, and tips). The recipe serves 4 people as an appetizer (2-3 wings per person) or 2 people as a main course. If you need to serve more people, simply double or triple the recipe accordingly. The cooking times should remain the same as long as your oven space allows for proper spacing between wings.
Can I use powdered garlic instead of fresh? +
While garlic powder is included in the marinade for depth of flavor, the fresh garlic in the recipe is irreplaceable. Fresh garlic provides a bright, sharp flavor that powdered garlic cannot match. However, in a pinch, you could use 0.5 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of fresh garlic called for. Keep in mind that the flavor will be noticeably different—less vibrant and more muted. For the best results and authentic taste, always use fresh garlic. Fresh garlic is also inexpensive and keeps well in your pantry for several weeks.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

How to Store Your Wings

Store any leftover garlic parmesan wings in an airtight container or sealed bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re completely cooled before refrigerating to prevent condensation. The creamy coating may harden slightly when cold, but it will warm up when you reheat the wings. For longer storage, freeze wings in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Always thaw in the refrigerator before reheating, which takes about 4-6 hours depending on quantity.

Best Ways to Reheat

The oven method produces the best results for maintaining crispiness. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the wings on a baking sheet lined with foil. Heat for 8-10 minutes until warmed through. If the coating has hardened, you can briefly toss the wings in a small amount of melted butter with fresh garlic before reheating. The air fryer is also an excellent option for reheating—set to 190°C (375°F) for 5-7 minutes for perfectly crispy results. Avoid using the microwave as it will make the wings soggy.

Variations to Try

Garlic Parmesan with Red Pepper Flakes: Add 0.5 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade and coating for subtle heat. Lemon Garlic Parmesan: Include the zest and juice of one lemon in the coating for a bright, tangy flavor. Italian Herb Version: Mix dried oregano, basil, and thyme into the parmesan coating. Truffle Parmesan Wings: Drizzle with a small amount of truffle oil after tossing with the garlic parmesan coating for a luxurious variation. Honey Garlic Parmesan: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of honey over the wings when tossing for a sweet and savory combination.

Final Thoughts

These Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Wings are a game-changer for anyone who loves incredible appetizers or finger foods. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity combined with its sophisticated flavor profile. With just a few quality ingredients and proper technique, you can create restaurant-quality wings in your own kitchen. The crispy exterior contrasts perfectly with the juicy, tender meat inside, all enveloped in that irresistible creamy garlic parmesan coating that tastes absolutely divine.

Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the big game, treating yourself to a special dinner, or impressing guests with your culinary skills, these wings will not disappoint. They’re easy enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for entertaining. Once you master this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. So preheat that oven, grab your favorite chicken wings, and get ready to create something truly special. Bon Appétit! 🍗✨

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