Crispy Garlic Parmesan Wings Made in the Air Fryer

These easy, super-crispy air fryer garlic parmesan wings are outstanding — tender, garlicky, and loaded with parmesan and just the right seasoning. They’re perfect as a main, appetizer, or game-day snack.

If you’re craving more chicken wing ideas, try my Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Wings, Honey Ginger Wings, or Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Wings next.

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Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings

These might be my favorite air fryer garlic parmesan wings recipe yet. They’re full of bold flavor and deliver that satisfying crunch thanks to the air fryer. Serve with a simple side salad or as a shareable appetizer — they’re always a crowd-pleaser.

I recently joined the air fryer community and I’m hooked. After researching models, I purchased the Cosori Air Fryer Max XL and it’s the one I use for this recipe. I’m sharing the model because it’s what I tested with, not as an endorsement.

Why You Need To Make These Air Fryer Chicken Wings

• Flavor – A balanced blend of savory, garlicky, and salty notes.
• Foolproof – The air fryer produces reliably crispy skin without deep frying.
• Better than takeout – You can recreate that popular garlic parmesan wing flavor at home, often tastier and fresher than many takeout options.

Tools You’ll Need

• Air fryer (5.8 quart recommended)
• Mixing bowl
• Mini food processor or grater for fresh parmesan
• Tongs

Ingredients to Make Garlic Parmesan Wings

• Chicken wings (drumettes and flats mixed)
• Salted butter
• Fresh garlic, finely minced
• Flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
• Freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano (parmesan)
• Kosher salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Avocado oil spray (for the air fryer basket)

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings in an Air Fryer

Air frying wings is straightforward and fast. The method below yields extra-crispy skin and juicy meat. Consider doubling the recipe if you’re feeding a crowd.

• Pat the wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture — this helps the skin crisp up.
• Season both sides of the wings with kosher salt, freshly cracked pepper, and garlic powder.
• Spray the air fryer basket lightly with avocado oil spray and arrange the wings in a single layer.
• Cook using the 3-step temperature process described below for best texture.
• When the wings are done, toss them in the melted garlic butter, add chopped parsley and freshly grated parmesan, and serve immediately while hot and crisp.

How Long Should You Air Fry Chicken Wings?

Using a 5.8-quart air fryer that fits about 1½ pounds of wings in a single layer, follow this three-step process (about 30 minutes total):

• Preheat and cook at 360°F for 25 minutes, flipping the wings at the 13-minute mark.
• Flip the wings and cook at 400°F for 3 minutes.
• If you want extra crunch, cook an additional 2 minutes at 400°F after flipping once more.

That Oh-So-Good Garlic Parmesan Sauce

A few notes before making the sauce: always use fresh minced garlic for the best flavor, and skip the bottled grated parmesan — fresh parmesan from a wedge makes a major difference. A mini food processor or grater works well to break the cheese into fine pieces.

• Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat, then add the minced garlic. Cook gently for about 2 minutes to infuse the butter, taking care not to brown the garlic.
• Grate or pulse fresh parmesan into small pieces and set aside.
• Chop the parsley finely and set aside.
• When wings are finished, place them in a mixing bowl and pour the melted garlic butter over them. Toss to coat, then add the chopped parsley and toss again. Finish with the freshly grated parmesan and toss once more. Serve immediately.

Tips For Making the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings

• Choose wings that are similar in size for even cooking.
• Avoid very small wings, which can dry out — pick slightly meatier pieces for juicier results.
• Add freshly grated parmesan after tossing the wings with butter and parsley to prevent the cheese from clumping at the bottom of the bowl.
• Fresh parmesan is worth the effort — grate it yourself for the best texture and flavor.
• These wings are crispiest and most flavorful right after tossing, while still warm — serve immediately.

Looking for More Good Eats?

A few favorites from the site:

• Red Wine Short Ribs
• Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pork Chops
• Garlic and Mushroom Skillet Chicken

Finger-Licking-Good Chicken Wings

I hope you love these wings as much as I do. Leave a comment and share a photo if you try the recipe — I love seeing your results. Happy eating!