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Parmesan Garlic Wings - Crispy, Savory, and Perfect for Sharing

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 to 2.5 pounds chicken wings (flats and drumettes, patted very dry)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional but recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3–4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil (for air fryer or baking sheet)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional, for serving)

Method
 

  1. Prep the wings: Pat the wings very dry with paper towels. Removing surface moisture is key for crisp skin.
  2. Season: In a large bowl, combine baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Toss wings with the mixture until evenly coated.
  3. For oven baking: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and set a wire rack on top. Lightly oil the rack. Arrange wings in a single layer, skin side up.
  4. Bake: Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping once halfway through. For extra crispness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching closely.
  5. For air frying: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Lightly oil the basket. Cook wings in a single layer for 22–26 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping halfway.
  6. Make the garlic butter: While wings cook, melt butter in a small pan over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, not browned. Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice and half the Parmesan.
  7. Toss and finish: Transfer hot wings to a large bowl. Pour over the garlic butter and toss to coat. Add remaining Parmesan and parsley. Season with a pinch more salt and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if you like heat.
  8. Serve: Plate immediately with extra Parmesan on top. Add ranch or blue cheese on the side if desired.