If you're craving a tasty snack that packs a punch, you've come to the right place. Garlic Butter Parmesan Wings are simple to make and bursting with flavor. In this post, I'll guide you through every step, from gathering fresh ingredients to baking wings that are crispy and golden. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful treat that’s perfect for game day or a cozy night in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a rich, savory taste that elevates simple chicken wings to a gourmet treat.
- Perfectly Crispy Texture: Baking the wings at high heat results in a satisfyingly crispy exterior, making each bite incredibly enjoyable.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or game day snack.
- Customizable Heat Level: Add crushed red pepper flakes for an optional spicy kick, allowing you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Garlic Butter Parmesan Wings
- 2 lbs chicken wings, divided into drumettes and flats
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 6 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
These main ingredients create a rich flavor and crispy texture. The chicken wings are the star. I love using a mix of drumettes and flats for variety. The unsalted butter adds creaminess, while garlic brings a strong, aromatic punch. Parmesan cheese gives the wings a nice cheesy crust. Fresh parsley brightens the dish, and Italian seasoning adds depth. Salt and pepper are essential for balancing all these flavors.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
- Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
If you enjoy heat, the crushed red pepper flakes are perfect. They add a nice kick to the wings. I always serve fresh lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon elevates the flavor and adds freshness.
Tools Needed for Preparation
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Medium saucepan
- Spatula or wooden spoon
You need a large mixing bowl to toss the wings with seasoning. A baking sheet lined with parchment paper makes cleanup easy. The medium saucepan is for melting the butter and mixing the sauce. A spatula or wooden spoon helps combine ingredients smoothly. These tools streamline the cooking process and ensure your wings come out perfect every time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is key for crispy wings. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy later.
Seasoning and Arranging the Wings
Take 2 lbs of chicken wings and divide them into drumettes and flats. In a large bowl, season the wings with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss them well to coat. Then, arrange the wings in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure they don’t overlap to help them get crispy.
Baking the Wings to Perfection
Now it’s time to bake the wings! Place them in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes. Halfway through, turn the wings over. They should turn golden brown and crispy when done.
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
While the wings bake, let’s make the tasty garlic butter sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add 6 cloves of finely minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until it smells amazing. Watch carefully so the garlic doesn’t burn.
Coating and Final Baking
After you take the saucepan off the heat, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped parsley, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. If you want a spicy kick, add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Mix everything well. When the wings are done, put them in a large bowl. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the hot wings and toss them until they are well-coated. Return the wings to the baking sheet and bake for another 5 minutes. This lets the flavors mingle and intensify.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Crispy Wings
To get crispy wings, start with dry chicken. Pat the wings with paper towels. Season them well with salt and pepper. When you bake, use a single layer on the pan. This way, hot air can flow all around. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway. The wings should look golden and crispy.
Preventing Garlic from Burning
Garlic adds great flavor but burns easily. When making the garlic butter sauce, heat the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir often. Cook just until it smells good, about 2-3 minutes. Remove it from heat right away to stop cooking. If it turns brown, it will taste bitter.
Best Serving Suggestions
Serve the wings hot and fresh. Use a big, nice platter for a great look. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for color. Add fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing. You can also offer extra Parmesan cheese for guests to add on their wings. Pair with celery sticks or a cool dip for a fun touch!
Pro Tips
- Use a Baking Rack: For extra crispy wings, place them on a wire baking rack set over the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the wings, ensuring they cook evenly and get that perfect crispiness.
- Marinate for Flavor: For even more flavor, consider marinating the wings in the garlic butter sauce for at least 30 minutes before baking. This will infuse the wings with delicious garlic and Parmesan flavors.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to customize the heat level of your wings! If you prefer them spicier, add more crushed red pepper flakes or toss the wings in your favorite hot sauce after coating them with the garlic butter sauce.
- Perfect Serving Temperature: Serve the wings immediately after coating them in the garlic butter sauce for the best flavor and texture. Letting them sit too long can make them soggy, so keep them hot!
Variations
Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Wings
If you love heat, add crushed red pepper flakes. Use one teaspoon for a kick. You can also mix in hot sauce to the garlic butter. This gives a spicy twist to the rich flavor. I often use a blend of hot sauce with the butter sauce. It makes the wings really tasty!
Using Other Seasonings
You can change the seasonings to suit your taste. Try adding smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. You can also use lemon pepper for a zesty touch. If you want a new twist, try some Cajun seasoning. These changes can transform the dish while keeping it delicious.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you want a different way to cook your wings, try air frying. Cook them at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes. They will come out crispy and tasty. Another option is grilling. Just toss the wings on a hot grill for 15-20 minutes. Make sure to turn them often for even cooking. No matter the method, the garlic butter sauce will still shine!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers Properly
To keep your Garlic Butter Parmesan Wings fresh, store them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool down before sealing. This helps avoid sogginess. Try to eat them within three days for the best taste. If you have a lot of wings left, consider dividing them into smaller portions.
Reheating Tips
Reheating wings can be tricky. I recommend using the oven for the best texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your wings on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. If you want them crispy again, remove the foil for the last five minutes.
Freezing for Later Use
If you want to save your wings for later, freezing is a great option. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above.
FAQs
How can I make my wings extra crispy?
To make your wings extra crispy, keep these tips in mind:
- Dry the wings: Pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning.
- Use a wire rack: Place the wings on a wire rack over your baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the wings.
- Cornstarch coating: Toss the wings lightly in cornstarch before baking for added crunch.
- High oven temperature: Bake at 425°F (220°C), as it helps achieve a golden brown color quickly.
Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings. Just remember to thaw them first. It’s best to do this in the refrigerator overnight. This keeps the wings safe to eat and helps with even cooking. If you're in a hurry, you can use the microwave to defrost them. Just be cautious not to start cooking them in the microwave.
What should I serve with Garlic Butter Parmesan Wings?
Garlic Butter Parmesan Wings pair well with:
- Celery sticks: They add a nice crunch.
- Carrot sticks: Sweet and fresh, they balance the flavors.
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing: Perfect for dipping.
- French fries: A classic choice for a hearty meal.
- A light salad: It helps balance the richness of the wings.
How long do cooked wings stay fresh in the fridge?
Cooked wings stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Store them in an airtight container to keep them safe. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating. If they look or smell bad, it's best to throw them out.
Can I grill these wings instead of baking?
Yes, you can grill these wings! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the wings for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Grilling adds a smoky flavor that is simply delicious!
Garlic Butter Parmesan Wings are easy to make and full of flavor. We covered the main ingredients and tools needed. The step-by-step guide helped you bake perfect wings. We also shared tips for crispiness and serving suggestions. You can try fun variations like spicy wings or different cooking methods. Finally, storing and reheating tips keep your wings tasty later. Enjoy your cooking adventures and impress others with these delicious wings!
