These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings are a game-changer for anyone craving crispy, flavorful wings without the hassle. In just 25 minutes, your air fryer delivers golden, tender wings coated in a rich, savory blend of garlic and Parmesan. The result? A perfect balance of crunch and juiciness that’s impossible to resist.
Each bite is a burst of umami goodness, with the nutty Parmesan and aromatic garlic creating a mouthwatering harmony. Plus, with only 1g of carbs per serving, these wings are a guilt-free indulgence. Whether it’s game day or a cozy night in, these wings are sure to steal the spotlight—and your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings
- 2 pounds chicken wings or drumsticks (ensure they are thawed if frozen)
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated works best for flavor)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder as a substitute)
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped (dried parsley can be used in a pinch—use 1 teaspoon)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pepper (freshly ground preferred)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-4 minutes.
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel to ensure the coating sticks well.
- In a bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Toss the chicken pieces in the cheese mixture until evenly coated. Press gently to help the coating adhere.
- Place the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, then use tongs to flip the chicken.
- Air fry again for another 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer basket and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or buffalo sauce.
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
While ranch and buffalo sauce are classic choices, why not mix it up? Try a garlic aioli for extra richness or a spicy honey glaze for a sweet and tangy kick. For toppings, sprinkle with extra Parmesan and parsley, or add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss the wings in a zesty chimichurri sauce for a fresh, herby twist!
Quick Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-5 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the coating soggy. For longer storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag—reheat straight from frozen in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes.
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Cooks
Prepping ahead? Toss the chicken wings in the Parmesan mixture and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld. If you’re short on time, skip the flipping step—just arrange the wings in a single layer and cook for 18-20 minutes total, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Air Fryer Tips for Crispy Perfection
To ensure your wings come out perfectly crispy, don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed. Preheat the air fryer as directed, and pat the chicken extra dry before coating to help the cheese mixture stick better. For extra crunch, spray the wings lightly with cooking oil before air frying. If your air fryer has a rack, use it to elevate the wings for better air circulation.
Recipe Variations to Spice Things Up
Swap out the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the coating for a spicy kick. For a gluten-free option, ensure your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free. If you’re using drumsticks instead of wings, increase the cooking time by 5-7 minutes to ensure they’re fully cooked. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique twist!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings in an Air Fryer Recipe
Equipment
- air fryer
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings, or drumsticks
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees for 3-4 minutes
- Pat chicken pieces dry with a paper towel.
- Mix Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper together in a bowl.
- Toss chicken pieces in cheese mixture until coated.
- Place chicken in bottom of air fryer basket and set timer to 10-12 minutes.
- After 12 minutes, use tongs to flip chicken.
- Fry again for 12 minutes.
- Remove chicken from basket with tongs and sprinkle with more Parmesan cheese and parsley.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce. We like ranch, and buffalo.