Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe

Oh, you’re going to love this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe! It’s honestly become my go-to when I want wings that are crispy, flavorful, and come together quickly without heating up the whole kitchen. The combination of garlic, butter, and that nutty parmesan cheese makes each bite irresistibly tasty, plus the air fryer gives you that perfect crunch without deep frying.

What’s great about this recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re throwing a casual weekend party or just craving some cozy comfort food, these wings fit the bill. Plus, since I use my air fryer, cleanup is a breeze — which means more time to enjoy those wings with friends or family!

this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe features simple, fresh ingredients that work together to create that classic wing combo you can’t resist. Choosing the right quality and cuts of chicken, plus fresh garlic and good parmesan, really makes the difference.

• Chicken wings: Opt for fresh, skin-on wings cut into drumettes and wingettes for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Salted butter: Real butter adds richness and helps the seasoning stick while enhancing the flavor.
• Garlic and herb seasoning: A blend that brings balanced savory notes—you can use pre-mixed or your own herb mix.
• Sea salt: Gives that essential seasoning kick and helps draw moisture out for crispy skin.
• Minced garlic: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch you just can’t beat with powdered substitutes.
• Grated parmesan cheese: This sharp, nutty cheese toasted on wings adds a luscious finishing touch.
• Fresh chopped parsley (optional): For a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness at the end.
• Ranch (optional): Perfect for dipping if you want a creamy cooling contrast.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love customizing this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe depending on the mood or season—sometimes I like to add heat, other times a little extra herbiness. Feel free to tweak the garlic amount or swap in your favorite herb blend to make it truly yours.

• Variation: When I want a bit of a kick, I sprinkle on some crushed red pepper flakes right before tossing the wings in the garlic butter—adds a wonderful spicy contrast.
• Make it dairy-free: Use olive oil instead of butter and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a vegan-friendly option that still delivers flavor.
• Seasonal twist: Adding fresh thyme or rosemary into the garlic butter mix brings a lovely earthiness that feels special around the holidays.
• Mild version: Simply reduce the garlic and herbs if you want a gentler, crowd-pleasing wing flavor for kids or sensitive palates.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe

Step 1: Pat Dry and Butter Up

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. While it’s warming up, thoroughly pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels—this helps the skin crisp up like crazy. Then, melt about 2 tablespoons of salted butter and drizzle it over the wings, tossing them lightly so every piece gets a thin coating. Dry wings + butter = perfectly golden, crispy skin every time.

Step 2: Season and Prep to Air Fry

In a small bowl, mix your garlic and herb seasoning with sea salt—this simple combo packs a punch. Sprinkle it over your butter-coated wings and gently rub it in on all sides. Make sure each wing gets its fair share! This layering of flavors before cooking is key to that deep garlic parmesan taste.

Step 3: Air Fry in Batches for Even Crispiness

Place the wings in a single layer in your air fryer basket—don’t overcrowd! Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to work in batches. Air fry the wings for 8 to 10 minutes, then flip them over and cook for another 7 to 9 minutes. You’re looking for a gorgeous golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they’re perfectly cooked.

Step 4: Garlic Butter Bath and Parmesan Toast

While the wings cook, melt the rest of the butter and stir in the minced garlic. Once the wings come out crisp and hot, toss them in this fragrant garlic butter mixture until they’re fully coated. Then sprinkle on the grated parmesan cheese and pop the wings back into the air fryer for 2-3 minutes—this step toasts the cheese slightly and amps up the flavor.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for color and herbaceous brightness. If you love extra garlic butter, drizzle a bit more over the wings or serve it on the side for dipping. These wings are fantastic alongside classic ranch dressing, but honestly, they’re so flavorful you can also enjoy them plain!

How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe

Garnishes

I always top my wings with freshly chopped parsley—it adds a fresh color pop and a subtle herby note that balances the rich garlic parmesan perfectly. Sometimes, if I’m feeling fancy, I’ll add a light squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a zingy brightness.

Side Dishes

I like pairing these wings with crisp celery sticks and crunchy carrots, classic ranch, or blue cheese dip on the side. For a heartier meal, some roasted potatoes or a Caesar salad round things out nicely. These sides soak up the buttery goodness and make the meal complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For game day or parties, I arrange the wings on a wooden board surrounded by small bowls of dipping sauces and fresh herbs. You can also serve them skewered for a fun finger-food approach or arrange them in a garlic parmesan “tower” for a visually impressive centerpiece that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I pop leftover wings in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the skin from getting soggy, I typically place a paper towel underneath to absorb moisture.

Freezing

These wings freeze really well! I lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them back up.

Reheating

To reheat, I always use the air fryer again—set to around 350°F and heat wings for 5 to 7 minutes. This keeps the skin crispy and the garlic parmesan flavor fresh, unlike microwaving which can make them soggy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I genuinely think this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe is a winner for anyone looking for that perfect mix of crispy, buttery, garlicky goodness without the fuss. It’s a recipe I go back to time and again, especially when friends drop by last-minute. I’m excited for you to try it out—you’ll love how quick and satisfying it is, and I bet your whole crew will be asking for seconds!

Print