Description

These Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Wings are the perfect combination of shatteringly crispy skin and tender, juicy meat, all tossed in a luxurious garlic butter sauce with fresh herbs and Parmesan. Baked instead of fried, they’re healthier but just as addictively delicious. Perfect for game day, parties, or any time you’re craving restaurant-quality wings at home!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Wings:

3 pounds chicken wings (about 24 pieces), separated into drumettes and flats, tips removed
1½ tablespoons aluminum-free baking powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

6 tablespoons unsalted butter
6-7 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
Extra Parmesan and parsley for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prep and dry the wings: Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial—any moisture will prevent crispy skin. Place them in a large bowl. If you have time, you can even let them air-dry uncovered in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours or overnight for extra crispy results.
Season the wings: In a small bowl, mix together the baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture over the wings and toss thoroughly until every wing is evenly coated. Don’t skip the baking powder—it’s the secret to crispy skin!
Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, then place a wire cooling rack on top. Arrange the wings on the rack in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching. Space between wings is important for air circulation and crispiness.
First bake: Bake the wings for 25 minutes on the middle rack. Don’t open the oven door during this time.
Flip and continue baking: After 25 minutes, use tongs to flip each wing over. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the wings are deeply golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F, and the skin should look dry and crispy.
Make the garlic butter sauce: While the wings are finishing their final bake, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley, Parmesan cheese, salt, red pepper flakes (if using), and lemon juice (if using). The cheese will melt into the butter, creating a thick, flavorful sauce.
Toss and serve: Transfer the hot, crispy wings to a large clean bowl. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the wings and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every wing. Let them sit for 1-2 minutes so the sauce adheres to the crispy skin.
Garnish and enjoy: Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, and serve immediately. These are best enjoyed hot and fresh!

Notes

Baking powder vs. baking soda: Make absolutely sure you’re using baking POWDER, not baking soda. They’re not interchangeable, and baking soda will give your wings an unpleasant metallic taste.
Don’t overcrowd: If your wings are touching on the rack, they’ll steam instead of crisp. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
Temperature matters: An oven thermometer ensures your oven is actually at 425°F. Many ovens run hot or cold, which affects cooking time.
Sauce variation: If you prefer saucier wings, double the garlic butter sauce recipe. Any leftovers are amazing drizzled over vegetables or bread!
Spice level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preference. Add hot sauce for a Buffalo-garlic butter hybrid that’s incredible.
Make them extra crispy: For maximum crispiness, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Main Course, Game Day Food
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6 wing pieces (about ¾ pound)
Calories: 485
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 185mg