Crispy Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings

These Crispy Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings are irresistibly flavorful and oven-baked to golden perfection. Coated in a rich garlic butter sauce and tossed with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, they strike the perfect balance between indulgent and satisfying. Whether served as a game-day appetizer or a main dish, these wings are guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra crispy without frying – oven-baked wings with crispy skin

• Bold garlic-Parmesan flavor – rich, savory, and addictive

• Perfect for any occasion – serve as a party appetizer or a satisfying main course

• No special equipment needed – just a steamer basket and oven

• Crowd-pleasing – always a hit with friends and family

• Meal prep-friendly – can be partially prepped ahead of time

• Balanced texture – crispy wings coated in buttery, cheesy goodness

• Simple, real ingredients – no artificial coatings or seasonings

• Easily doubled – great for feeding a group

• Low-carb option – naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs chicken wings
4 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons butter
2–3 tablespoons minced garlic
3 tablespoons chopped parsley
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Steam the wings:

   • Place 2 inches of water in an 8-quart saucepan fitted with a steamer basket.

   • Cover and bring to a boil over high heat.

   • Add chicken wings to the steamer basket and steam for 10–12 minutes.

2. Chill for crispiness:

   • Remove wings and transfer them to a cooling rack set over a baking sheet.

   • Place them in the refrigerator uncovered for 1–2 hours. This helps dry the skin for extra crispiness.

3. Bake the wings:

   • Preheat oven to 425°F.

   • Bake wings on the middle rack for 20 minutes.

   • Flip and bake for another 20 minutes, or until browned and crispy.

4. Prepare garlic butter sauce:

   • In a small saucepan, melt olive oil and butter over low heat.

   • Stir in salt and minced garlic. Cook for 3 minutes, being careful not to brown the garlic.

5. Toss and coat:

   • Remove wings from the oven and place in a large bowl.

   • Pour the garlic butter over the wings. Add Parmesan cheese and parsley.

   • Toss until evenly coated.

6. Serve:

   • Transfer wings to a serving platter.

   • Sprinkle with additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Add heat: Toss in crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.

• Lemon twist: Add lemon zest to the garlic butter for brightness.

• Air fryer method: Skip steaming and cook at 400°F for 25 minutes, shaking halfway.

• Extra cheesy: Use a mix of Parmesan and Asiago for more depth.

• Garlic lover’s version: Double the garlic and roast it for added sweetness.

• Herb boost: Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme for a twist on the classic.

• Buffalo-Parmesan combo: Toss in mild buffalo sauce and finish with Parmesan.

• Make it smoky: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the garlic butter.

• Asian fusion: Use sesame oil and soy sauce in place of butter and salt.

• Keto-friendly dip: Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Storage/Reheating

To store: Refrigerate leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat: Place in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes until warmed and crispy. Alternatively, use an air fryer for extra crispiness.
To freeze: Cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a hot oven.

FAQs

Can I skip steaming the wings?

Steaming helps render out moisture and fat, which leads to crispier baked wings. It’s recommended, but you can skip it if short on time.

Can I use pre-cooked or frozen wings?

Yes, but thaw them first and adjust cooking time. Skip steaming if using pre-cooked wings.

How do I make sure the wings are crispy?

Drying the wings in the fridge after steaming and baking at high heat ensures a crispy texture without frying.

What kind of Parmesan cheese should I use?

Freshly grated Parmesan works best. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which doesn’t melt or coat as well.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, steam and refrigerate the wings earlier in the day, then bake and toss right before serving.

What dipping sauce goes well with these?

Ranch, garlic aioli, or even a spicy marinara pairs nicely with the garlic Parmesan flavor.

Can I double the recipe for a party?

Absolutely. Use two baking sheets or cook in batches for larger groups.

What other cuts of chicken can I use?

Drumettes, wingettes, or even boneless chicken tenders work with slight time adjustments.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter provides better flavor, but margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative if needed.

Are these wings gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check labels on cheese and butter to be sure.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings are the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish for any gathering or simple weeknight meal. With their crunchy exterior, buttery garlic coating, and savory Parmesan finish, they deliver big flavor without deep frying. Easy to prepare and always satisfying, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.