Name: Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 12 pieces chicken drumettes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons minced garlic; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon minced parsley

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There’s nothing quite like the crispy, savory goodness of Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings to elevate a casual gathering into a feast. I remember the first time I made these wings; the aroma filled my kitchen, and I could hardly wait to dig in. I had just invited some friends over for a game night, and I wanted to serve something that would wow them without taking all day to prepare. As I flipped the crispy chicken drumettes in the air fryer, my friends were already gathering around, their mouths watering in anticipation. The combination of garlic and rich Parmesan cheese has become a staple in my kitchen, and I always keep the ingredients on hand. If you’re looking to impress your guests or simply indulge in a flavorful snack, these wings are perfect.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
300 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Air Fryer, 12-inch Skillet, Parchment Paper, Air Fryer 5.8 QT

Why You Need This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings

They’re Incredibly Easy to Make

One of the things I love most about the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings is how straightforward they are. It takes just a few minutes to prep and then let the air fryer do its magic. You don’t need to worry about deep frying, splattering oil everywhere, or making a mess in the kitchen. Just season your wings, pop them in the air fryer, and let it work its wonders.

Crispy Texture Without Guilt

Using an air fryer means you can enjoy crispy wings with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. The air fryer circulates hot air around the wings, crisping them up perfectly while keeping them juicy on the inside. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy your favorite comfort food!

Flavor Explosion

Can we talk about the flavor? The blend of melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan creates an irresistible coating that clings to each wing. Once you toss the wings in this savory mixture, they become a flavor bomb that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, they won’t last long.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These wings are versatile enough for any occasion, from casual game nights to elegant dinner parties. They pair beautifully with a nice salad or can be served alongside your favorite dipping sauces. Regardless of the event, these chicken wings will always be a crowd-pleaser.

Fun for Everyone

Gathering around a platter of Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings is always a good time. They encourage sharing and make for a fun and interactive dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these wings are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to everyone’s faces.

What to Buy for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings

Choosing the right ingredients is crucial to achieving the perfect wing experience. For these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings, each ingredient plays an important role. The crispy chicken wings become a delightful canvas for the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan, creating an unforgettable bite. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to recreate this dish.

12 chicken drumettes: These are the stars of the show. Drumettes are meaty and tender, making them perfect for air frying. Aim for fresh wings for the best taste.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the seasonings adhere to the wings.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Brings a creamy texture and enhances the flavor profile.
2 tablespoons minced garlic: Provides that aromatic kick that elevates the dish.
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers that savory, cheesy goodness that makes these wings addictive.
1 tablespoon minced parsley: Adds a touch of color and freshness to balance the richness.

Making Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings

Making these wings is a breeze, thanks to the air fryer. If you’ve never used one before, get ready for a delightful surprise! It’s as simple as seasoning, cooking, and tossing, which makes it an ideal recipe for busy nights. Let’s dive into the steps.

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect crispiness. Make sure it’s fully heated before adding your wings.
Add the chicken drumettes to the basket of your air fryer, ensuring they’re spread out in a single layer. This allows for even cooking. Cook them for 8 minutes. You’ll start to smell that delicious aroma already!
After 8 minutes, carefully flip the chicken drumettes to ensure they cook evenly on both sides. Cook for another 8 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
At this point, the wings should be crispy and fully cooked. If they aren’t as crispy as you like, you can pop them back in for an additional 2 minutes. This is especially helpful if your drumettes are larger.
While the wings are cooking, melt the butter, olive oil, and minced garlic in a 12-inch skillet set over medium heat. Be careful not to burn the garlic; you want it fragrant and golden.
When the mixture is warm and the garlic is fragrant, remove it from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and minced parsley. This creates a flavorful coating!
Once the wings are done cooking, add them to the skillet with the garlic and cheese mixture. Toss them gently to ensure each wing is well-coated.
Serve the wings hot. They’re perfect for sharing, but you might not want to! Enjoy the burst of flavor in every bite.

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Give the wings enough space to cook evenly. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken is at least 165 degrees F.
Let them rest: Allowing the wings to rest for a few minutes after cooking will help them retain their juices.
Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite spices or hot sauce to the wing mixture for an extra kick.

Customization Ideas

Customization is key to making any recipe your own, and these wings are no exception. Here are some ideas to add your personal touch.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days, but they’re best enjoyed fresh!
Freezing: You can freeze cooked wings for up to a month. Just reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Pairing: Serve these wings with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch or blue cheese dressing, to enhance the flavor.
Spice it up: Add some cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the garlic and butter mixture for a spicy version of the wings.
Garnishing: Top the wings with additional minced parsley or even some lemon zest for a zesty finish.
Flavor variations: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a twist on the classic recipe.
Serve with sides: Pair these wings with a fresh salad or crispy fries to make a complete meal.

What Goes Well With This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings

Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the wings nicely.
Vegetable Sticks: Fresh carrot and celery sticks with ranch dip are classic accompaniments for chicken wings.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges or sweet potato fries make for a delicious side.
Game Nights: These wings are perfect for game day parties or any casual gathering. They’re finger-licking good!
Picnics and BBQs: Serve them at outdoor events; they’re always a hit!
Watch Parties: Perfect for movie nights or any event where snacks are required. They make every occasion feel special.

FAQ

To get that perfect crispy texture for your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings, make sure to preheat your air fryer properly. It’s essential to cook the wings in a single layer without overcrowding, as this allows the hot air to circulate freely around each piece. You can also toss the wings in a little olive oil before seasoning, which helps achieve that golden crispiness. If they don’t seem crispy after the initial cooking time, feel free to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

These wings are incredibly versatile! They pair beautifully with fresh salads, vegetable sticks, or crispy potato wedges. For a party atmosphere, consider serving them alongside various dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing. If you’re hosting a game night, they will surely be a hit among your guests! Add some cold beverages, and you’ve got the perfect gathering.

Absolutely! While the recipe specifically calls for chicken drumettes, you can use other parts such as chicken wings or thighs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly. A meat thermometer is a great tool to ensure they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F. Feel free to experiment with different cuts to find your favorite!

To store leftover Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cooled wings in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they can last for about a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back that crispy texture.

Conclusion

The Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings are not just another snack; they’re a game-changer for any gathering. The crispy texture combined with the rich flavors makes them irresistible. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s an easy way to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a regular in your meal rotation.