These air fryer garlic parmesan wings are the perfect combination of crispy, savory, and cheesy. Using the air fryer ensures a healthier take on classic wings with less oil but maximum crunch and flavor. They’re quick to make and ideal for game day, parties, or a tasty weeknight dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispiness.
- In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
- Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; work in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation.
- Cook the wings at 380°F (193°C) for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket every 8-10 minutes to promote even cooking and crispness.
- While the wings are cooking, prepare the garlic parmesan sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
- Once the wings are crispy and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C), transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the garlic parmesan sauce over the wings and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
Tips
- For extra crispy wings, pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder if needed, but fresh garlic provides a more vibrant flavor.
- To keep wings warm while preparing the sauce, place cooked wings in a low-temperature oven or covered dish.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit cayenne pepper; for more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these garlic parmesan wings with celery sticks and a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing for a classic pairing. They also go well with a light mixed greens salad or crispy potato fries for a fuller meal.
Variations
For a different flavor twist, try adding a splash of hot sauce to the garlic butter or sprinkle with chopped scallions instead of parsley. You can also toss the wings in buffalo sauce before adding the Parmesan for a spicy buffalo garlic Parmesan combo. For a healthier option, serve with veggie sticks or a side of roasted vegetables.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (177°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the wings soggy and diminish their crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes, you can use frozen wings, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked and crispy.
How do I make the wings extra crispy?
Ensure the wings are thoroughly dried before cooking, avoid overcrowding the basket, and cook at a slightly higher temperature (around 400°F/204°C) for the last 5 minutes if needed. Shaking the basket frequently also helps achieve even crispiness.
Can I omit the Parmesan cheese?
Yes, you can omit the Parmesan if you prefer a simpler garlic wing or want to make it dairy-free. Alternatively, sprinkle a different cheese like Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.
What can I use instead of butter for the sauce?
If you want a dairy-free or vegan version, substitute with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Keep in mind this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the sauce.
How do I make the wings vegan?
Use plant-based chicken wing substitutes or cauliflower florets seasoned similarly. Prepare a garlic vegan butter sauce using vegan margarine or olive oil and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Are these wings spicy?
The level of spiciness depends on whether you add cayenne pepper or hot sauce. For milder wings, omit or reduce the cayenne pepper. Add hot sauce for more heat.
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