Ingredients
– 3 pounds chicken wings, split and tips removed main protein
– 2 tablespoons flour a light dusting to help the skin crisp and help the Parmesan adhere during baking
– 2 teaspoons baking powder raises skin pH so the skin gets extra crunchy when baked
– 1/2 teaspoon salt basic seasoning for the wings themselves
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper provides a gentle peppery background
– 1/3 cup melted butter, slightly cooled the sauce base adds richness and carries the garlic and Parmesan flavors
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese salty, nutty flavor that crisps when baked and clings to the sauce
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley fresh herb for brightness and garnish
– 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder gives a consistent, mild garlic flavor without the bite of raw garlic
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for sauce) seasoning for the sauce to match the wings
– 1/4 teaspoon salt (for sauce) balances the butter and cheese in the sauce
– 4-6 dashes hot sauce optional heat to taste; adds a tangy kick that pairs well with Parmesan
Instructions
1-First Step: Prep and mise en place Time to get organized. Preheat your oven to 425Β°F. Pat 3 pounds of split chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for crisp skin. Line a baking pan with foil and then add a sheet of parchment paper for easier cleanup and less sticking. If you have a wire rack, place the wings skin-side up on the rack to allow hot air to circulate under them; otherwise arrange wings in a single layer on the parchment.
2-Second Step: Season and coat In a large bowl, toss the dried wings with 2 tablespoons flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. The baking powder is a small trick that raises the skin’s pH and encourages extra crunch as the wings bake. Work quickly so the coating stays light and even.
3-Third Step: Bake until crispy Arrange the wings on the lined baking pan in a single layer. Bake at 425Β°F for 20 minutes, then flip each wing and bake another 15 minutes until the skin is crispy and browned. The total here is 35 minutes at 425Β°F before saucing. If you used a wire rack, the results will be even crispier.
4-Fourth Step: Make the garlic Parmesan sauce While wings bake, mix the sauce: 1/3 cup melted butter (slightly cooled), 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 4 to 6 dashes hot sauce. Stir until combined. If the sauce seems thick, warm it gently to soften.
5-Fifth Step: Toss, finish baking, and serve When the wings have finished the first 35 minutes, toss them with half the sauce in a large bowl so they get a light coat of Parmesan that will crisp further. Increase the oven temperature to 475Β°F, return the wings to the pan in a single layer, and bake for another 8 to 10 minutes until golden and crisp. Broil briefly if you want extra browning, watching closely to prevent burning.
6-Remove the wings and immediately toss with the remaining sauce so each wing gets a glossy finish. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan and chopped parsley before serving.
7-Air Fryer method: within the steps If you prefer an air fryer, skip the flour and baking powder. Toss split wings with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper only. Preheat your air fryer to 400Β°F and arrange wings in a single layer. Air fry for 20 to 22 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for even crisping. Toss with half the sauce, then air fry another 2 to 4 minutes to set the coating. Finally, toss with the remaining sauce and serve hot.
Notes
π Dry wings thoroughly with paper towels before seasoning – this is the key to achieving maximum crispiness
π§ Baking powder alters the skin’s pH for extra crunch, but use sparingly to avoid any off-flavors
π₯ For extra crispy results, spray the parchment paper lightly or use rice flour to prevent sticking
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 wings
- Calories: 206
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 305mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 64mg
