These Crispy Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings deliver big on flavor without the mess and fuss of frying. Each wing is coated in a light seasoning blend and baked to golden perfection, resulting in irresistibly crispy skin. The real magic happens post-bake when the hot wings are tossed in a decadent mix of melted butter, garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Every bite is savory, garlicky, and cheesy with just the right balance of crispness and richness.
Perfect for entertaining or indulging in a cozy night at home, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They’re great as a game day snack, a party appetizer, or even a main course paired with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Since they’re baked, you skip the oil splatters while still achieving that delicious crunch. And with only a few pantry ingredients needed, these wings are as simple to make as they are satisfying to eat.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 lbs chicken wings
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
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Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl.
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Toss the wings with baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
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Arrange wings on the wire rack in a single layer and bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
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While the wings bake, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese.
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Toss the baked wings in the garlic-Parmesan butter mixture until fully coated.
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Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 385 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings are a classic finger food turned gourmet comfort dish, and this recipe proves you don’t need a deep fryer to achieve that restaurant-quality crunch. Rooted in the tradition of American bar food, chicken wings have long been a staple at sports parties, casual gatherings, and game day feasts. This particular variation, infused with rich garlic and nutty Parmesan cheese, takes wings to the next level—offering a crispy exterior and buttery, savory coating that lingers on the palate.
What makes this recipe exceptional isn’t just its irresistible flavor profile, but also how simple and accessible it is. By using your oven and a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of wings that are just as satisfying as fried versions, without all the grease and guilt. The secret lies in a smart technique: baking powder is used to dry out the skin during roasting, creating a crispy texture that mimics deep frying. It’s an ideal solution for health-conscious cooks who want bold flavor without sacrificing wellness goals.
A Healthier Take on a Crowd Favorite
One of the key advantages of this garlic Parmesan wing recipe is its health-conscious approach. Traditional wings are often fried in oil, leading to excess fat and calories. This version relies on baking, which dramatically reduces the amount of added fat. Using baking powder instead of breading or heavy flour also keeps the carb count low, making it a keto-friendly option for those following a low-carb or high-protein diet.
The wings are seasoned lightly before baking, then tossed in a rich butter-garlic-Parmesan mixture afterward. This method ensures maximum flavor without overloading the dish with unnecessary ingredients. It’s indulgent in taste but mindful in preparation—a winning combination for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.
Why Garlic Parmesan Wings Are Always a Hit
Garlic and Parmesan are a match made in culinary heaven. Garlic offers robust, aromatic depth, while Parmesan brings a sharp, salty richness. Together, they elevate chicken wings into a gourmet experience. Unlike spicy buffalo wings that rely on heat, this recipe uses savory, umami-forward flavors that appeal to nearly every palate. They’re mild enough for kids yet decadent enough to satisfy adult cravings.
These wings also pair beautifully with a variety of sides and sauces. Serve them alongside celery sticks and blue cheese for a classic combo, or try a tangy ranch dressing or yogurt-based garlic dip to highlight the savory flavors. Add a side of roasted vegetables, crispy potato wedges, or a green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a weekend get-together, prepping for a Super Bowl party, or simply looking for a fun, satisfying dinner, these baked garlic Parmesan chicken wings fit the bill. They’re easy to scale up for larger groups and hold their crispness well—making them perfect for serving buffet-style or as a starter at a casual dinner.
Because the recipe uses everyday ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, it’s accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Even kitchen novices can confidently serve a tray of golden, flavor-packed wings with minimal effort.
Tips for Success
- Dry your wings thoroughly: Patting them dry removes moisture that could prevent crisping.
- Use a wire rack: Elevating the wings allows hot air to circulate and ensures even browning on all sides.
- Flip halfway: Turning the wings during baking ensures both sides get equally crispy.
- Toss while hot: Coating the wings in garlic-Parmesan butter while they’re hot helps the flavors cling and melt into every crevice.
Customizable to Your Taste
Another bonus to this recipe is how customizable it is. You can easily tweak it to suit your personal preferences:
- Add heat with a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes in the seasoning mix.
- Swap cheeses like Romano or Asiago for a slightly different flavor.
- Use herbs such as rosemary or thyme for a more earthy taste.
- Make it gluten-free by confirming your Parmesan is certified gluten-free and checking your spices.
This adaptability makes it a go-to base recipe for cooks who like to experiment or cater to different dietary needs.
A Great Make-Ahead or Meal Prep Option
Baked garlic Parmesan wings also lend themselves well to meal prep. You can season and refrigerate the wings ahead of time, or even bake them partially and reheat later in the oven or air fryer. They maintain their flavor and texture, making them an ideal choice for busy families or meal-prepping foodies who still want maximum flavor in minimal time.
Conclusion
These Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings prove that delicious, crispy, and indulgent food doesn’t have to come from a deep fryer. With their bold garlic aroma, cheesy richness, and irresistible texture, they are a game-changing take on a classic comfort food. They’re perfect for sharing, easy to make, and healthier than traditional wings—offering a guilt-free way to satisfy your wing cravings.
Whether you’re planning your next family dinner, prepping for a party, or just craving something savory and crispy, these wings will never disappoint. Once you make them, you’ll understand why they’ve become a go-to recipe for so many home cooks. Simple ingredients. Big flavor. No frying required. That’s a recipe worth bookmarking.