Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe
If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser, look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe. Bursting with flavor and perfectly crispy, these wings are the ideal appetizer for game days, parties, or a cozy night in. What sets this recipe apart is the combination of garlic and Parmesan, which creates an irresistible savory experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why Cooks Rave About It
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe has earned its rave reviews for several reasons. First, it balances savory and aromatic flavors beautifully, thanks to the fresh garlic and the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese. Second, the wings are oven-baked to perfection, allowing for a crispy texture without the mess of frying. Plus, the marinade infuses the wings with incredible flavor, making them juicy and tender. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward and guarantees delicious results every time.
What You’ll Need
- 2 quarts cold water
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon Herbes de Provence, divided
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Pinch of kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons fine bread crumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Equipment Breakdown
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet is essential for even cooking.
- Wire Rack: Placing the wings on a wire rack helps them crisp up nicely.
- Mixing Bowls: For marinating the wings and mixing the seasoning.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best flavor.
- Garlic Press: To easily mince garlic cloves.
Directions: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brine
In a large bowl, combine the cold water, balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, bay leaf, and ½ teaspoon of Herbes de Provence. Stir until the salt dissolves.
Step 2: Brine the Wings
Add the chicken wings to the brine mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your wings cook evenly and achieve that coveted crispiness.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Coating
In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, ½ teaspoon onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, bread crumbs, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of Herbes de Provence. Mix well.
Step 5: Drain and Dry the Wings
After brining, remove the chicken wings and rinse them under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.
Step 6: Coat the Wings
Place the dried wings in a large mixing bowl. Add the garlic Parmesan mixture and toss until the wings are evenly coated.
Step 7: Bake the Wings
Arrange the coated wings in a single layer on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the wings, helping them crisp up. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
Step 8: Add the Parmesan
In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the wings and return them to the oven until the cheese melts and becomes slightly golden.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the wings from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Fit It to Your Goals
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the wings with a side of celery and ranch dressing for a low-carb snack.
- Spicy Twist: Add more crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute chicken wings with cauliflower florets for a vegetarian option.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure that your bread crumbs are gluten-free if necessary.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe can easily be tailored to your taste preferences. You can experiment with different herbs or spices to create your unique twist. For a more intense garlic flavor, consider roasting the garlic before adding it to the coating. Additionally, if you want to make the wings even more indulgent, serve them with a side of creamy garlic dipping sauce.
Make-Ahead & Storage
If you’re planning for a gathering, you can brine the wings the day before and store them in the refrigerator. Once baked, these wings are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Reader Questions
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before brining and coating.
What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings?
These wings pair well with a variety of sides, such as celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese.
Can I bake these wings instead of frying them?
Absolutely! This recipe is designed for baking, which results in crispy wings without the added fat of frying.
How do I ensure my wings are crispy?
To achieve crispy wings, make sure to dry them thoroughly after brining and use a wire rack during baking to allow air circulation.
Cook This Next
- Sally’s Baking Addiction – Easy Baked Buffalo Wings
- Pinch of Yum – Crispy Baked Chicken Wings
- Minimalist Baker – Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Final Bite
There’s something truly magical about sharing a plate of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings with friends and family. The rich, savory flavors combined with the satisfying crunch make these wings an irresistible treat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a night in, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your wings, fire up your oven, and get ready to indulge in a delightful culinary experience. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the cold water, balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, bay leaf, and ½ teaspoon of Herbes de Provence. Stir until the salt dissolves.
- Add the chicken wings to the brine mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your wings cook evenly and achieve that coveted crispiness.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, ½ teaspoon onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, bread crumbs, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of Herbes de Provence. Mix well.
- After brining, remove the chicken wings and rinse them under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.
- Place the dried wings in a large mixing bowl. Add the garlic Parmesan mixture and toss until the wings are evenly coated.
- Arrange the coated wings in a single layer on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the wings, helping them crisp up. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
- In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the wings and return them to the oven until the cheese melts and becomes slightly golden.
- Remove the wings from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Brine the wings a day ahead for maximum flavor.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
- Experiment with different herbs for a unique flavor twist.
