Air Fryer Spicy Garlic Parmesan Wings

These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings are ultra-crispy, tender, and coated in a rich buttery garlic sauce with freshly grated parmesan. They’re quick to make, flavorful, and perfect as a game day snack, appetizer, or weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These wings are everything you want: crispy skin without deep frying, juicy meat inside, and a coating of garlicky parmesan goodness. The air fryer does the heavy lifting, creating restaurant-style wings with less oil and mess. They’re fast, easy, and absolutely addictive.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ½ pounds chicken wings, drumettes and flats mixed

• 3 ½ tablespoons salted butter

• 2 tablespoons garlic, finely minced

• ½ teaspoon flat-leaf parsley, finely minced

• ¼ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated

• Kosher salt (Diamond Crystal brand recommended)

• Freshly cracked black pepper

• Garlic powder

• Avocado oil spray (for air fryer basket)

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F for 5 minutes.

2. Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels. Season generously with kosher salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.

3. Spray the air fryer basket with avocado oil spray. Arrange wings in a single layer.

4. Cook at 360°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through at the 13-minute mark.

5. Increase heat to 400°F. Flip wings and cook for 3 minutes, then flip once more and cook an additional 2 minutes until extra crispy.

6. While wings cook, melt butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add garlic and cook gently for 2 minutes, infusing the butter without browning the garlic.

7. Toss cooked wings in the garlic butter mixture. Add parsley and toss again.

8. Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan over wings, toss, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

• Swap parsley for fresh basil or oregano.

• Use pecorino Romano instead of parmesan for a sharper flavor.

• Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright twist.

• Toss with buffalo or BBQ sauce before adding parmesan for a fusion flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes until hot and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the skin.

FAQs

Can I make these wings ahead of time?

Yes, you can air fry the wings, refrigerate them, and reheat in the air fryer before tossing with garlic butter and parmesan.

Can I use frozen wings?

Yes, but thaw them fully and pat dry before seasoning to ensure crispy skin.

Do I need to use avocado oil spray?

No, but avocado oil has a high smoke point. You can substitute with olive oil spray or another neutral oil.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

How do I make the wings spicier?

Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or chili flakes to the seasoning or garlic butter.

Can I bake these wings instead?

Yes, bake at 425°F for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway. Broil at the end for extra crispiness.

What’s the best parmesan to use?

Freshly grated parmesan from a block is best for flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute vegan butter and dairy-free parmesan.

How do I keep the wings crispy after tossing in butter?

Toss them quickly just before serving and eat right away for maximum crispiness.

What sides go well with these wings?

They pair well with celery, carrot sticks, a simple salad, or roasted potatoes.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings are crispy, savory, and packed with garlicky flavor. They’re quick to make, healthier than deep-fried wings, and guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Whether for game night, parties, or dinner, these wings are a recipe you’ll return to again and again

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