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If you crave something crunchy and flavorful, you’ll love these Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Wings. These wings are simple to make and pack a ton of taste. I’ll walk you through every step, from prepping the wings to achieving that perfect golden crisp. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, these wings will impress. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering.
- Crispy Perfection: The air fryer gives the wings a delightful crispy texture without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier option.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, onion, and smoked paprika creates a mouthwatering flavor that elevates the wings to a new level.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spices or add your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick, making this recipe versatile for any palate.
Ingredients
To create the best Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Wings, you need the right ingredients. Here’s what to gather:
– 2 lbs chicken wings
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Each ingredient plays a key role in making these wings crispy and full of flavor. The chicken wings are the star, and you want fresh ones. The olive oil helps with crisping them up in the air fryer. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth to the flavor. Smoked paprika gives a hint of smokiness that pairs well with the wings. Salt and pepper balance everything out.
The grated Parmesan cheese is what makes these wings special. It creates a wonderful, cheesy crust that you’ll love. Finally, fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness when you serve your wings.
This simple list of ingredients will set you on the path to making delightful wings. Don’t skip any of them! Each one contributes to the overall taste and experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Air Fryer
First, set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheat it for about 5 minutes. This step is key for crispy wings. A hot air fryer cooks wings evenly and gives them a great crunch.
Preparing the Chicken Wings
In a large bowl, add the chicken wings. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over them. This oil helps spices stick. Next, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Add salt and pepper to taste. Toss the wings well. Make sure every wing is covered in spices. A good mix will boost the flavor.
Cooking the Wings
Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not crowd them. If your air fryer is small, cook in batches. Air fry the wings for 25-30 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking. This ensures all sides get crispy. The wings are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are golden brown.
Adding the Parmesan and Garnish
Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a mixing bowl. While they are hot, sprinkle ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over them. Toss well to coat each wing with cheese. For extra cheese goodness, return the wings to the air fryer for another 2-3 minutes. This melts the cheese just right. Finally, garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley. Serve your wings hot and enjoy the crunch!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Extra Crispy Wings
To make your wings extra crispy, follow a few key steps. First, make sure to pat the wings dry with paper towels. Removing moisture helps them crisp up better. Next, use olive oil sparingly. This light coating helps the seasonings stick and promotes crispiness. When air frying, avoid overcrowding the basket. Give each wing space to allow hot air to circulate. Lastly, shake the basket halfway through cooking. This ensures even crispness on all sides.
Best Practices for Seasoning
Seasoning is vital for flavor. Start with a solid mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. These spices add depth and warmth. Don’t forget salt and pepper; they enhance all the flavors. Mix the seasonings well before adding them to the wings. Toss the wings in a large bowl to coat them evenly. After adding Parmesan cheese, toss again while the wings are hot. This melts the cheese slightly and makes it stick better.
Using Different Chicken Wing Cuts
You can use various cuts of chicken wings. Whole wings include the drumette, wingette, and tip. Cutting them up helps with cooking time and makes serving easier. If you prefer, use just drumsticks for a meatier bite. They cook well in the air fryer and still get crispy. You can also try using boneless chicken for a quick option. Boneless wings cook faster and soak up flavors nicely. Just remember, cooking times may vary based on the cut you choose.
Pro Tips
- Pat the Wings Dry: For extra crispiness, make sure to pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps remove excess moisture.
- Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use fresh spices and seasonings. They can make a significant difference in the overall taste of your wings.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Make sure the wings are in a single layer and not overcrowded in the air fryer. This allows for better air circulation and crisping.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize your seasoning mix by adding your favorite spices or even a dash of hot sauce for a kick!

Variations
Alternative Seasonings
You can switch things up with different flavors. For a spicy kick, try Spicy Garlic Parmesan Wings. Just add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your seasoning mix. This heat pairs well with the garlic and cheese. It makes the wings pop with flavor.
Another great option is Lemon Herb Wings. Use fresh lemon juice and herbs like thyme or rosemary. The citrus brightens the dish and adds freshness. This variation is perfect for a lighter taste.
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal even better, consider side dishes that go well with the wings. A fresh salad or crispy fries can balance the flavors. You might also serve them with roasted vegetables for a healthy twist.
Dipping sauces enhance the experience. Classic choices include ranch or blue cheese dressing. You can also try a zesty garlic aioli. The creamy dips pair nicely with the crunchy wings, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
You can store leftover wings in the fridge. Place the wings in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. Make sure to let them cool before covering. This keeps them crispy longer. If you plan to eat them later, store them right away.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the wings, let them cool completely first. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Press out as much air as you can. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can keep them frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw and reheat.
Reheating Methods
Reheating wings can bring back their crispy texture. The best way is to use the air fryer. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the wings in for about 5 to 8 minutes. This will help them crisp up again. You can also use an oven set at 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes. Just make sure they reach 165°F (74°C) inside. Enjoy your tasty wings!
FAQs
How long to cook garlic parmesan air fryer wings?
Cook the wings for 25-30 minutes at 400°F. Shake the basket halfway through. This helps them cook evenly. You want the wings crispy and at least 165°F inside.
Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes, you can use frozen wings. Just cook them a bit longer. Add about 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time. Make sure they are fully cooked and crispy.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
You can use Pecorino Romano for a similar taste. Grated nutritional yeast is a good vegan option. Both add great flavor to your wings.
How to make wings less greasy?
Use less olive oil when coating the wings. You can also choose skinless wings for a lighter option. Air frying already reduces grease compared to traditional frying.
You now know how to make delicious garlic Parmesan wings in an air fryer. We covered the best ingredients and step-by-step instructions for perfect cooking. I shared tips to achieve that extra crispiness and ideas for different seasonings. You can also find storage info for keeping leftover wings fresh.
Enjoy making these tasty wings for your next meal or snack. Trust me, they will impress everyon
Crispy Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Wings
Deliciously crispy chicken wings seasoned with garlic, onion, and Parmesan cheese, cooked to perfection in an air fryer.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- to taste salt and pepper
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, add the chicken wings and drizzle with the olive oil.
Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the wings. Toss well to ensure all wings are evenly coated.
Place the seasoned wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not crowded. You may need to do this in batches depending on your air fryer size.
Air fry the wings for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. They’re done when crispy and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, transfer the wings to a large mixing bowl. Immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the hot wings and toss until evenly coated.
For an extra touch, you can return the wings to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese slightly.
Remove from the air fryer, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
For extra crispy wings, return them to the air fryer after adding cheese.
Keyword air fryer, chicken wings, garlic, parmesan
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