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Best Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe

crispy baked parmesan chicken wings - featured image

These crispy baked Parmesan chicken wings are tender, flavorful, and have that perfect crunch without a single drop of oil for frying. They’re quick and easy to make, using simple ingredients, and are perfect for game day or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats (about 2024 pieces total)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika if available)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated from a wedge)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet and set aside.
  2. Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for crispiness.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Add the dried wings and toss well to coat every piece evenly.
  4. Arrange the seasoned wings on the wire rack in a single layer, making sure they are not touching each other.
  5. Bake for 30 minutes on the middle rack of the oven until golden brown and starting to look crispy.
  6. While the wings are baking, combine the grated Parmesan, melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl. Stir until well combined.
  7. After 30 minutes, remove the wings from the oven. Using tongs, toss the hot wings with the Parmesan mixture in a large bowl until evenly coated.
  8. Return the coated wings to the wire rack and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the Parmesan is melted and slightly browned and the wings are extra crispy.
  9. Let the wings rest on the rack for 5 minutes before serving. Serve hot.

Notes

Don’t skip drying the wings thoroughly; wet skin prevents crispiness. Use a wire rack for best air circulation. Watch the Parmesan coating during the final bake to prevent burning. For larger wings, add 5-10 minutes to initial baking time. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy baked chicken wings, Parmesan chicken wings, baked wings, game day wings, easy chicken wings