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Easy Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings

crispy air fryer garlic parmesan chicken wings - featured image
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These crispy air fryer garlic parmesan chicken wings are shatteringly crispy, juicy inside, and coated in a savory garlic butter parmesan sauce. Ready in under 40 minutes, they’re a healthier alternative to deep-fried wings that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats (tips removed or saved for stock)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds depth, sweet works too)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is non-negotiable)
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the wings: Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. If using whole wings, cut through the joint to separate the drumette from the flat, and discard or save the wing tips.
  2. Season the wings: In a large bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Add the dried wings and toss well with your hands until every piece is evenly coated.
  3. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes.
  4. Arrange the wings: Place the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd. Cook in batches if needed.
  5. First cook: Air fry at 380°F for 12 minutes. After 12 minutes, open the basket and flip each wing using tongs.
  6. Second cook: Increase the temperature to 400°F (204°C). Air fry for another 10-12 minutes, flipping once more halfway through. The wings should be deeply golden brown and the skin should look bubbly and crispy. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  7. Make the garlic parmesan coating: While the wings are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
  8. Warm toss: As soon as the wings come out of the air fryer, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the garlic parmesan butter mixture over the hot wings and toss gently with tongs until every wing is coated.
  9. Finish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately while the wings are still hot and crispy.

Notes

For extra crispiness, let the seasoned wings sit uncovered in the fridge for an hour before cooking. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Toss the wings in the coating immediately after cooking while they are still hot. If making ahead, cook wings without coating, reheat at 375°F for 3-4 minutes, then toss with fresh coating.

Nutrition

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Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/easy-crispy-air-fryer-garlic-parmesan-chicken-wings/