Garlic Parmesan Crispy Air Fried Chicken Wings

Introduction

Chicken wings are a universal favorite, known for their versatility and flavor. When prepared with garlic and Parmesan, they become even more irresistible. Adding the air fryer into the mix ensures a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. This recipe for Garlic Parmesan Crispy Air Fried Chicken Wings combines savory garlic, tangy Parmesan, and a touch of herbs to create a mouthwatering appetizer or main dish. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply want a delicious weeknight dinner, these wings will be the star of the show. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ingredients, preparation steps, cooking tips, and serving suggestions to make the perfect garlic Parmesan chicken wings in your air fryer.

Ingredients

To make Garlic Parmesan Crispy Air Fried Chicken Wings, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds chicken wings: Choose fresh or thawed wings for the best texture and flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick to the wings and aids in crisping.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a strong garlic flavor without the need for fresh garlic.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth and complements the garlic.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Brings a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and enhances the color.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a rich, tangy flavor.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish and added freshness.
• Optional: 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: For a spicy kick, if desired.

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Wings

Start by preparing the chicken wings. If they are whole, separate them into drumettes and flats by cutting through the joint. This step helps ensure even cooking and makes it easier to eat the wings. Pat the wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Drying the wings helps them become crispier when air fried.

Step 2: Seasoning the Wings

In a large bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken wings in the seasoning mixture until they are evenly coated. Drizzle the olive oil over the seasoned wings and toss again to ensure all the wings are well-coated with the oil and spices. The oil helps the seasoning adhere to the wings and promotes crispiness.

Step 3: Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Preheating ensures that the air fryer reaches the optimal temperature for crispy results. Most air fryers require preheating at 360°F (182°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Air Frying the Wings

Arrange the seasoned chicken wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure that the wings cook evenly and become crispy. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the wings in batches.

Air fry the wings at 360°F (182°C) for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time. This helps ensure even cooking and browning. The wings are done when they are golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Tossing with Parmesan and Garnish

Once the wings are cooked and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and place them in a large bowl. While the wings are still hot, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over them and toss well to coat. The heat from the wings will slightly melt the cheese, creating a delicious, cheesy coating.

Garnish the wings with freshly chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately while they are still hot and crispy.

Customization and Variations

Buttered steak bites with mushrooms is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some ideas for variations:

Different Seasonings and Flavors

• Buffalo Sauce: Toss the cooked wings in buffalo sauce before adding the Parmesan cheese for a spicy, tangy twist.
• Lemon Pepper: Substitute garlic powder with lemon pepper seasoning for a zesty flavor.
• Ranch: Add a packet of ranch seasoning mix to the wings for a classic, tangy taste.

Healthier Options

• Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs: For a healthier coating, mix whole wheat breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese. This adds a bit of crunch without extra calories.
• Low-Fat Cheese: Use reduced-fat Parmesan cheese to lower the calorie content while still enjoying the cheesy flavor.

Adding Vegetables

• Bell Peppers: Toss bell pepper strips in a bit of olive oil and seasoning, and air fry them alongside the chicken wings for a colorful, crunchy side dish.
• Carrots and Celery: Serve the wings with a side of carrot and celery sticks for a classic wing accompaniment.

Serving Suggestions

Buttered steak bites with mushrooms is a hearty dish that can be served in a variety of ways, depending on the occasion and your preferences:

Classic Pairings

• Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. These classic accompaniments enhance the flavors of the wings and provide a cool, creamy contrast.
• Celery and Carrots: Pair with celery and carrot sticks for a crunchy, refreshing side that complements the rich flavors of the wings.

Elegant Presentation

• Plating Tips: Arrange the wings on a platter and garnish with additional fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese for an elegant presentation. You can also drizzle with a bit of extra olive oil or lemon juice for added flavor.
• Wine Pairing: Serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer to balance the richness of the wings.

Storing and Reheating

Storage Tips

Leftover garlic Parmesan chicken wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, refrigerate the wings as soon as they have cooled to room temperature.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze the wings, let them cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tips

To reheat the wings, preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C). Place the wings in the basket and air fry for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat the wings in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Nutritional Information

Garlic Parmesan crispy air fried chicken wings are a flavorful and relatively healthy option compared to traditional deep-fried wings. Here’s a general nutritional breakdown for a typical serving (about 4 wings):

• Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories per serving.
• Protein: Around 20-25 grams of protein.
• Fat: About 15-20 grams of fat, depending on the amount of olive oil and Parmesan cheese used.
• Carbohydrates: Minimal, usually around 2-5 grams.
• Fiber: Negligible, as the wings are not a significant source of fiber.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Provides important nutrients like protein, calcium (from Parmesan), and vitamins from the fresh parsley.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings

To ensure your garlic Parmesan chicken wings turn out perfectly every time, follow these expert tips:

Preparing the Wings

• Uniform Size: Ensure all the wings are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking. This helps prevent some wings from being undercooked while others are overcooked.
• Dry Thoroughly: Dry the wings thoroughly before seasoning. Excess moisture can lead to less crispy wings.

Air Fryer Techniques

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat the air fryer to ensure consistent cooking and crispy results.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the wings in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and less crispiness.

Seasoning and Coating

• Even Coating: Make sure each wing is evenly coated with seasoning and oil. This helps achieve a consistent flavor and crispiness.
• Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, or herbs according to your taste preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator before preparing them. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they become crispy.

2. How can I make these wings spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the seasoning mix for a spicier flavor. You can also toss the wings in hot sauce after air frying for added heat.

3. Can I use other types of cheese?
While Parmesan cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for different flavors. Just make sure they are finely grated.

4. Can I cook these wings in the oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the wings in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

5. How do I make sure the wings stay crispy?
To keep the wings crispy, avoid stacking them and serve them immediately after coating with Parmesan cheese. If you need to store them, keep them uncovered to prevent moisture from making them soggy.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan crispy air fried chicken wings are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan with the crispiness of air frying. This recipe is easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. By following the detailed instructions and tips provided, you can achieve restaurant-quality wings right in your own kitchen. Whether served as an appetizer, a snack, or a main course, these wings are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Yield: 6

Garlic Parmesan Crispy Air Fried Chicken Wings

Print

Chicken wings are a universal favorite, known for their versatility and flavor. When prepared with garlic and Parmesan, they become even more irresistible. Adding the air fryer into the mix ensures a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. This recipe for Garlic Parmesan Crispy Air Fried Chicken Wings combines savory garlic, tangy Parmesan, and a touch of herbs to create a mouthwatering appetizer or main dish. Whether you're hosting a game day party or simply want a delicious weeknight dinner, these wings will be the star of the show. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ingredients, preparation steps, cooking tips, and serving suggestions to make the perfect garlic Parmesan chicken wings in your air fryer.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

• Chicken Wings:
• 4 pounds chicken wings party pack, drumettes, flats, etc.
• 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning
• 2 tablespoons cajun seasoning or Sazon Goya Sazon Culantro y Achiote
• 2 tablespoons corn starch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
• 6 tablespoons butter, salted
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, minced

Instructions

• Thoroughly clean your wings. I like to soak them in equal parts vinegar and water for 1-2 hours (store in fridge). Then rinse well and trim off any weird parts, feathers, etc.
• Pat the wings very dry - this is essential in crispiness. Season liberally on all sides with ranch seasoning and cajun seasoning (or Sazon). Add salt and pepper if needed based on the seasonings you use.
• Once they are well seasoned, combine the cornstarch and baking powder in a bowl. Then sprinkle over the chicken, tossing to evenly coat.
• Put the air fryer to the broil setting on high. Broil the wings for 4 minutes. Then switch to the air fry setting and air fry at 400 degrees for 12-15 minutes, flipping half way through.
• While they wings are cooking, prepare the garlic parmesan sauce in a large bowl. Add butter and garlic into the bowl. Microwave until butter is softened and partially melted. Mix in remaining ingredients until a soft paste forms.
• Dump the hot and crispy wings from the air fryer basket directly into the large bowl with the butter sauce. Toss well with tongs or by shaking and rotating the bowl. Enjoy immediately. To reheat leftovers, place them in the air fryer on a piece of foil for easier cleanup.