There’s something utterly satisfying about the sound of chicken wings sizzling away, transforming into the golden, crispy treats we all crave. I discovered the secret to achieving that perfect crunch when I started using my air fryer—it’s a game changer! The process of making these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings began one evening when I found myself craving a flavor-packed snack that wouldn’t keep me tethered to the stove. With just a handful of quality ingredients like fresh garlic and rich Parmesan cheese, I crafted a dish that has quickly become my go-to for gatherings and cozy nights in. Not only are these wings irresistibly crisp, but they’re also gluten-free and ready to impress anyone looking to break away from takeout or fast food. So let’s dive into this delightful dish, where ease meets gourmet flavors in just 35 minutes!
Why are Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings a Must-Try?
Crispy Texture: These wings boast an irresistible crunch that rivals any fried option.
Flavors Galore: The rich combination of garlic and parmesan creates a mouthwatering experience.
Gluten-Free Delight: Perfect for anyone seeking a delicious, gluten-free option without compromising taste.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy home cooks.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether for game day or a cozy dinner, these wings are sure to impress all your guests.
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Ingredients
For the Wings
• Chicken Wings – 1½ pounds of mixed drumettes and flats; these provide the main protein and structure for the dish.
• Kosher Salt – To taste; enhances overall flavor, so adjust based on your preference.
• Freshly Cracked Pepper – To taste; adds spice and complexity to each bite.For the Flavoring
• Salted Butter – 3½ tablespoons; adds richness and flavor—swap with olive oil for a lighter option.
• Garlic – 2 tablespoons, finely minced; delivers aromatic flavor, with fresh garlic being recommended.
• Flat Leaf Parsley – ½ teaspoon, finely minced; brightens flavor and adds color but can be omitted or replaced with other herbs.
• Parmesan Cheese – ¼ cup, freshly grated; adds nuttiness and saltiness; avoid pre-grated for the best taste.
• Garlic Powder – For seasoning; enhances the garlic flavor, but is optional based on your preference.For Cooking
• Avocado Oil Spray – For the air fryer basket; prevents sticking; can substitute with any high smoke-point oil spray.
These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings are a simple yet delicious way to satisfy your cravings while keeping your meals homemade and wholesome!
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings
Preheat the air fryer to 360°F for 5 minutes. This helps to ensure your wings cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture.
Pat dry the chicken wings with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with kosher salt, freshly cracked pepper, and optional garlic powder for an extra flavor boost.
Spray the air fryer basket with avocado oil to prevent sticking. Lay the seasoned wings in a single layer, ensuring they have some space and aren’t overcrowded.
Cook on the “chicken” setting for 25 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through at the 13-minute mark. This ensures they become golden brown all over!
Increase the temperature to 400°F after the initial 25 minutes. Flip the wings again and cook for an additional 3 minutes, then flip once more and cook for a final 2 minutes to achieve ultimate crispiness.
Melt the salted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook gently for about 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to infuse the butter without browning.
Process the fresh parmesan in a food processor until finely grated. Set aside for later; freshly grated parmesan adds a creaminess that’s simply exquisite!
Combine the hot, cooked wings with the melted garlic butter, minced parsley, and freshly grated parmesan in a large mixing bowl. Toss well to ensure each wing is covered in the flavorful mixture.
Optional: Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping and a side of crunchy celery sticks.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings are perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings when you want to save time! You can prepare the wings by seasoning them and storing them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in advance. Just make sure to pat them dry to maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to enjoy, pop the wings into the air fryer and cook as directed. For an even quicker option, you can cook them fully and refrigerate the finished wings for up to 3 days; simply reheat in the air fryer for about 5-7 minutes at 360°F before serving. This way, your wings remain just as delicious, saving you precious time and hassle!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings?
These delightful wings sing with flavor, making the ideal centerpiece for a fun meal or gathering.
- Crispy Celery Sticks: Their refreshing crunch complements the savory wings, providing a palate cleanser and a healthy bite.
- Ranch Dressing: A cool, creamy dip that balances the rich flavors of the wings; perfect for those who love a classic pairing.
- Tangy Coleslaw: This adds a crispy, tangy contrast to the richness of the wings. With a light dressing, it brightens every bite you take.
- Garlic Bread: Because garlic lovers can never have enough, serving this warm, buttery bread brings a comforting touch to your meal.
- Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crisp texture enhance the savory taste of the wings while adding a delightful twist.
- Beer or Lemonade: A cold drink can elevate the meal experience—opt for a refreshing lemony beverage or a smooth beer to dive deeper into flavor town.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit mix adds a light, sweet touch that contrasts beautifully with the wings’ savory flavors. Plus, it feels like a party on the plate!
- Cheesy Nachos: For a more indulgent pairing, nachos loaded with cheese will create an irresistible spread that everyone will adore!
- Chocolate Mousse: To finish on a sweet note, a light and airy chocolate mousse provides a luxurious end to your meal, contrasting the savory wings perfectly.
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Variations
Customize your wings experience with these delightful twists that will excite your taste buds!
Buffalo Twist: Toss cooked wings in your favorite buffalo sauce for a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the garlic and parmesan.
BBQ Style: Swap garlic for a tangy barbecue sauce to create a sweet and smoky flavor profile that is sure to please.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and omit cheese for a deliciously dairy-free alternative without losing the rich flavor.
Pecorino Romance: Use pecorino cheese instead of parmesan for a sharper, saltier taste that adds an exciting new dimension.
Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, which complement the garlic wonderfully for a fragrant experience.
Garlic Lovers: Double the amount of garlic, or add roasted garlic for a deep, caramelized flavor that brings an entirely new level of richness.
Sweet Heat: Sprinkle some chili flakes or drizzle honey over the wings right after cooking for an irresistible sweet and spicy contrast.
Lemon Zest: Add a bit of lemon zest to the butter sauce for a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness, making the wings utterly refreshing!
Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings
Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh garlic and parmesan for optimal flavor. Pre-grated cheese and jarred garlic can lack the intensity you want.
Pat Dry for Crispiness: Make sure to pat the chicken wings dry before seasoning. Excess moisture can prevent that desirable crisp texture.
Single Layer Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cooking the wings in a single layer ensures even cooking and crispy results.
Monitor Cooking Time: Air fryers can vary, so keep an eye on your wings. Adjust the cooking time slightly if your model runs hotter or cooler.
Toss Thoroughly: When combining wings with the garlic butter and parmesan, toss them well for even coating. This step is crucial for flavor distribution.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy these yummy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings right after cooking for the best texture and flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings
Fridge: Store cooked wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while allowing you to enjoy their delicious flavors later.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the wings in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Wrapping Tip: If reheating from frozen, make sure to separate the wings as much as possible to ensure they heat evenly!
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken wings should I use?
I recommend using a mix of drumettes and flats for the best texture and flavor. Aim for about 1½ pounds total, which will give you a delightful balance of meatiness and crispiness.
How should I store leftover wings?
Place your cooked Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes for that delicious crunch again.
Can I freeze the wings?
Absolutely! To freeze your wings, first lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, ensuring all the air is squeezed out. Frozen wings can last up to 3 months, making them a great make-ahead meal option.
What should I do if my wings are not crispy?
If your wings aren’t getting crispy, remember to pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning, as excess moisture can prevent crisping. Also, make sure they are arranged in a single layer during cooking. If they seem packed, consider cooking them in batches.
Are these wings suitable for special diets?
Yes! These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings are gluten-free, as they don’t contain any flour or breadcrumbs. Always double-check your ingredients (like the parmesan) for any potential allergens, especially if you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions.
Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings You’ll Crave Forever
Equipment
- Air fryer
Ingredients
For the Wings
- 1.5 pounds Chicken Wings Mixed drumettes and flats
- to taste Kosher Salt Enhances overall flavor
- to taste Freshly Cracked Pepper Adds spice and complexity
For the Flavoring
- 3.5 tablespoons Salted Butter Adds richness and flavor
- 2 tablespoons Garlic Finely minced
- 0.5 teaspoon Flat Leaf Parsley Finely minced
- 0.25 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated
- to taste Garlic Powder Optional seasoning
For Cooking
- to taste Avocado Oil Spray For air fryer basket
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 360°F for 5 minutes.
- Pat dry the chicken wings with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides with kosher salt, freshly cracked pepper, and optional garlic powder.
- Spray the air fryer basket with avocado oil. Lay the seasoned wings in a single layer.
- Cook on the 'chicken' setting for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through at the 13-minute mark.
- Increase the temperature to 400°F after 25 minutes. Flip the wings and cook for an additional 3 minutes, then flip again and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Melt the salted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook gently for about 2 minutes.
- Process the fresh parmesan in a food processor until finely grated.
- Combine the cooked wings with melted garlic butter, minced parsley, and freshly grated parmesan in a large mixing bowl. Toss well.