These Easy Garlic Parmesan Buffalo Chicken Wings are a healthier, baked alternative to fried wings that are crispy, flavorful, and coated in a delicious garlic parmesan buffalo sauce. Perfect for game nights or family gatherings, these wings are simple to make and packed with flavor. Serve them with ranch dressing and a side of fries for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Wings:
- 2 lbs chicken wings (mix of wings and drumsticks)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 garlic cloves, peeled
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese for tossing
For Serving:
- Green onions (optional garnish)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing
Directions
- Prepare the Wings:
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil. On the sheet pan, toss the chicken wings with paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the flour and toss again. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Scatter garlic cloves around the chicken. - Bake the Wings:
Bake the wings for 20 minutes. Remove the garlic from the pan, flip the wings, and return them to the oven. Bake for another 15–20 minutes until crispy and cooked through. - Make the Sauce:
Peel the roasted garlic cloves and mash them into a paste. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the hot sauce, seasoned salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir until combined and remove from heat. Mix in the roasted garlic paste. - Toss and Bake:
Remove the wings from the oven and toss with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Pour the prepared buffalo sauce over the wings and toss to coat. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes to let the sauce bake onto the wings. - Serve:
Transfer the wings to a serving platter. Garnish with green onions and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing. Enjoy!
Nutrients
- Calories: 423 kcal per serving (approximate)
- Protein: High-quality protein from chicken
- Fat: Healthy fats from olive oil and butter
- Carbohydrates: Minimal from flour and seasonings
- Vitamins: Vitamin A from paprika and garlic
These wings are a perfect combination of crispy, spicy, and savory, making them a great addition to any meal or event!
Healthier Alternative Without Compromising Flavor
While traditional chicken wings are often deep-fried, this recipe opts for baking to achieve the same crispy texture without excessive oil. Baking the wings at a high temperature ensures they stay juicy on the inside while developing a perfectly crisp exterior. Here’s why baked wings are a game-changer:
- Less Oil, Same Crispiness: Tossing the wings in a bit of olive oil and flour creates a golden, crispy coating without the need for deep frying.
- Healthier Fats: Olive oil and butter in the recipe provide healthier fat options compared to the saturated fats in fried wings.
- Less Mess: Baking eliminates the greasy cleanup associated with frying.
By using this method, you can enjoy indulgent wings that are better for you without sacrificing flavor or texture.
The Perfect Flavor Combination
These wings hit all the right flavor notes: spicy, savory, and cheesy. The key components of the flavor profile are:
- Garlic Parmesan: Roasted garlic provides a mellow sweetness and depth, while freshly grated parmesan adds a salty, umami-rich finish.
- Buffalo Sauce: The classic combination of hot sauce and butter creates a tangy, spicy glaze that coats the wings beautifully.
- Smoked Paprika and Seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder add layers of flavor to the wings before they’re even baked, ensuring every bite is seasoned to perfection.
The result is a wing that’s bold, balanced, and irresistible.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Chicken wings are a versatile dish that suits any event, from casual weeknight dinners to larger gatherings. Here’s why these Garlic Parmesan Buffalo Chicken Wings are perfect for every occasion:
- Game Nights: Their bold flavors and finger-food appeal make them a game-day staple.
- Family Dinners: Pair them with fries or a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
- Potlucks and Parties: Wings are always a crowd-pleaser, and this recipe’s unique twist on buffalo wings will stand out.
The recipe is designed to be easily scalable, so you can adjust the quantities to fit your needs, whether serving a small family or a large group of friends.
Customizing Your Wings
These wings are already packed with flavor, but you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences:
- Heat Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to make the wings milder or spicier.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with other cheeses like Romano or Asiago for a different twist on the garlic parmesan flavor.
- Additional Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or cilantro for added freshness.
- Ranch vs. Blue Cheese: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, or offer both for variety.
These customizations ensure that the wings can cater to a wide range of tastes, making them a versatile and reliable dish.
The Role of Roasted Garlic
Roasted garlic is a standout ingredient in this recipe, contributing a rich, caramelized sweetness that complements the spiciness of the buffalo sauce. Roasting garlic mellows its sharpness, turning it into a creamy, spreadable paste that blends seamlessly into the sauce. This addition elevates the dish, giving it a gourmet touch that makes these wings feel extra special.
Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Buffalo Wings
To ensure your wings turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:
- Pat the Wings Dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the wings before seasoning. This step helps them crisp up in the oven.
- Toss Evenly: Toss the wings thoroughly with the flour and seasonings to ensure every piece is well-coated.
- Don’t Skip the Flip: Flipping the wings halfway through baking ensures they cook evenly and become crispy on all sides.
- Grate Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan melts better and has a stronger flavor than pre-packaged grated cheese.
- Serve Immediately: These wings are best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the oven to appreciate their crispiness and bold flavors.
Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients
While these wings feel indulgent, they also offer some nutritional benefits:
- Chicken Wings: A great source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Garlic: Packed with antioxidants and compounds that support heart health and immune function.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds calcium and protein while delivering intense flavor.
- Olive Oil: Provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Paprika and Cayenne: Contain capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and promote better circulation.
By balancing indulgence with wholesome ingredients, this recipe lets you enjoy delicious wings without guilt.
Pairing Suggestions
For a complete meal or an elevated appetizer spread, pair these wings with complementary sides and drinks:
- Sides: Serve with classic fries, sweet potato wedges, or a refreshing celery and carrot platter.
- Salads: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Drinks: Enjoy with a cold beer, sparkling water with lime, or even a tangy lemonade to balance the heat.
These pairings enhance the flavors of the wings while creating a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion: Your Go-To Wing Recipe
These Easy Garlic Parmesan Buffalo Chicken Wings are the perfect balance of crispy, spicy, and savory. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the big game, or simply craving a flavorful meal, this recipe has you covered. The combination of baked wings, roasted garlic, and parmesan cheese creates a gourmet take on classic buffalo wings, while the baking method ensures a healthier alternative without sacrificing texture or taste.
With minimal effort and maximum flavor, these wings are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and sides, and watch as they disappear from the plate—proof that this dish is a guaranteed hit for any occasion!