Name: Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings You’ll Crave
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Chicken Wings (Mix of drums and flats); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (For crispy texture); 1 teaspoon Table Salt (Kosher salt can be substituted); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground preferred); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Can use olive oil for dairy-free); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced, fresh preferred); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Vegan cheese can substitute); 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley (Optional for garnish)

As the aroma of sizzling garlic wafts through the air, I catch a glimpse of those golden, crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings waiting to be devoured. These wings have quickly become a go-to in my kitchen, thanks to their undeniable crunch and savory flavor that make them ideal for game day or a cozy dinner at home. Whipping up a batch is a breeze, taking just 25 minutes from prep to table, giving you more time to relish the fun moments with friends and family. Best of all, they’re gluten-free, catering to a variety of dietary preferences. Are you ready to elevate your snacking game to mouthwatering new heights? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

Why Are These Wings a Game Changer?

Quick to Prepare: In just 25 minutes, you can have a delicious plate of Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings that are ready to impress.

Irresistible Crunch: Thanks to the air fryer, each wing comes out perfectly crispy without the guilt of deep frying.

Flavor-Packed: The rich garlic butter and Parmesan coating takes these wings to a whole new level, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

Versatile Delight: These wings work as an appetizer, game day snack, or even a main dish paired with a side, just like my easy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia for the ultimate feast.

Crowd-Pleaser: Their undeniable appeal makes them a hit at gatherings, and they cater to gluten-free diets, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.

Easy Clean-Up: With minimal mess and no greasy aftermath, you’ll want to whip these up again and again without hesitation!

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Ingredients

For the Wings
• Chicken Wings – Use a mix of drums and flats for a fun texture and flavor variety.
• Baking Powder – It’s a crucial element for achieving that irresistible crispy texture; cornstarch can also be a great alternative.
• Table Salt – This classic seasoning enhances the flavor; kosher salt is a good substitute for those who prefer it.

For the Seasoning
• Black Pepper – Adds a hint of heat; freshly ground delivers the best flavor.

For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Rich and creamy, it’s essential for the sauce; olive oil or a vegan option works well for a dairy-free version.
• Garlic (minced) – The star of the dish, bringing aroma and depth; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Parmesan Cheese – Provides a nutty, savory flavor that’s absolutely delicious; vegan cheese or nutritional yeast can substitute for those avoiding dairy.
• Chopped Parsley (optional) – Brightens up the dish with color and freshness; feel free to skip if you’d like.

These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings are not just simple to make but a true delight that will tantalize your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings

Step 1: Prep Wings
Start by drying the chicken wings thoroughly with paper towels; this helps achieve ultimate crispiness. In a large bowl, combine the wings with baking powder, table salt, and black pepper, mixing well to ensure each wing is evenly coated. Set aside for a few minutes to allow the seasoning to adhere.

Step 2: Air Frying
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for a few minutes. Once heated, spray the fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Lay the seasoned wings in a single, even layer, ensuring they’re not overlapping. Air fry for 8-9 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy, which should take about 16-18 minutes in total.

Step 3: Make Sauce
While the wings are cooking, prepare the savory garlic butter sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and lightly browned, stirring continuously to avoid burning for a rich flavor.

Step 4: Toss Wings
Once your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to the bowl with the garlic butter mixture. Toss the wings until they’re thoroughly coated in the buttery garlic sauce. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the wings, ensuring an even distribution for that cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Finish in Air Fryer
Return the sauced wings to the air fryer for an additional 2 minutes at 390°F (200°C). This final step will help crisp up the Parmesan cheese and meld all the flavors together beautifully. Watch closely, as you’ll want them bubbly and slightly golden without overcooking.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Once done, carefully take the wings out of the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate. If desired, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings hot, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauces or sides for an extra treat.

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings

Pat Them Dry: Ensuring your wings are thoroughly dried before seasoning helps achieve an irresistible crispiness in your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings.
Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange wings in a single layer in the air fryer. Overlapping can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results.
Timing is Crucial: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Depending on your air fryer model, the wings should reach golden brown perfection between 16-18 minutes.
Toss Right Away: Quickly toss the wings in the garlic butter after air frying to prevent sogginess. Timing here is key to maintain that crunchy texture.
Experiment with Seasoning: Add your personal touch by incorporating spices like cayenne pepper for heat, or by trying different cheeses for varied flavor.
Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer to keep them crispy.

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Variations

Customize your wings with these exciting twists that will delight your taste buds and suit every craving!

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the seasoning for an extra level of heat. These wings can pack quite a punch, perfect for spice lovers.
Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or feta in place of Parmesan for a unique flavor profile. Imagine the creamy cheesiness of melted cheddar mingling with that garlic undertone.
Herb-Infused: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be added to the garlic butter for an aromatic twist. Their fragrance will elevate your wings, bringing a touch of gourmet to your dinner table.
Cajun Flavor: Substitute the seasoning mix with Cajun spices for a zesty, Southern-inspired flavor. Think of the bold and robust taste with every crispy bite — a true adventure for your palate!
BBQ Glaze: Toss the wings in your favorite barbecue sauce after the first air fry, then air fry for an additional 2 minutes. This creates a sticky, sweet coating that’s sure to please at any gathering!
Garlic Parmesan Meatballs: Use the same garlic butter sauce as a drizzle over meatballs, inspired by my easy Air Fryer Pizza for a delightful twist on classic comfort food.
Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the garlic butter for a bright and zesty flavor. The citrus will cut through the richness and enhance the overall freshness of the dish.
Buffalo Style: For a tangy twist, toss wing pieces in buffalo sauce before serving. This fusion of garlic and fiery flavor will surely keep your guests coming back for more.

Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your perfect version of Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings!

What to Serve with Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings

Imagine gathering around the table with friends, the aroma of crispy garlic wings filling the air as you create an unforgettable dining experience.

Creamy Ranch Dip: Rich and herby, this cool ranch dip adds a delightful contrast to the crispy wings, enhancing every bite.
Celery and Carrot Sticks: These crunchy, fresh veggies provide a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the wings while embracing classic game day vibes.
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia: This warm, fluffy bread echoes the garlic flavors of the wings, making for a perfect match that beckons you to indulge more.
Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, these seasoned wedges complement the hearty flavor of the wings, creating a satisfying plate.
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: For a spicy twist, try pairing with these delicious bites; they offer a great contrast to the wings while keeping it veggie-friendly.
Cold Beer or Sparkling Water: Sip on a refreshing beverage to cleanse your palate between bites, elevating the experience of savoring those crispy garlic Parmesan wings.
Chocolate Mousse: End the meal with a rich chocolate mousse for a sweet finish, contrasting beautifully with the savory wings.

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can season and prep the wings up to 24 hours in advance by drying them thoroughly and coating them with baking powder, salt, and pepper. Simply cover the seasoned wings in an airtight container and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, air fry them for 8-9 minutes on each side as usual. For the garlic butter sauce, you can minced the garlic and melt the butter and combine them up to 3 days ahead, storing the mixture in the refrigerator. Just reheat the sauce before tossing your cooked wings, and you’ll have restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings

Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining that delicious flavor from the garlic butter sauce.

Freezer: If you want to save wings for later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat wings in the air fryer at 390°F (200°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This method revives the crunchiness of your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen wings, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating for optimal results.

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken wings should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! A mix of drumettes and flats not only adds variation in texture but also keeps every bite exciting and delicious. When buying chicken wings, look for plump, meaty options and try to avoid any that have dark spots or off-smells. Fresh is always best!

How should I store leftover Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings?
For optimal freshness, store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup which can make them soggy. I often place a paper towel inside the container to absorb any excess moisture—this really helps maintain crispiness!

Can I freeze the wings for later use?
Yes, you can freeze your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings! To do so, first, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating them in the air fryer to restore their glorious crunch!

What should I do if my wings are not getting crispy?
Very! To ensure crispiness, first make sure to pat the wings dry with paper towels before seasoning, as moisture will hinder the crisping process. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; wings should be in a single layer for even cooking. If necessary, air fry in batches. Finally, adding baking powder promotes crispiness, so ensure you’re using enough!

Are these wings safe for people with allergies?
These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings are generally gluten-free, but always double-check your ingredients, especially store-bought items like baking powder or Parmesan cheese, to avoid any hidden gluten. If cooking for someone with allergies, consider using dairy-free cheese alternatives and ensure all other ingredients, like seasonings, are allergy-friendly. It’s always better to be safe!