Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Wings
These Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Wings are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with savory, cheesy flavor. Coated in a garlic-Parmesan crust and cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer, they deliver crunch without the grease. They’re an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer or weeknight dinner option that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings separated into flats and drumettes
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
Optional Add Ins:
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper for heat
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For Dipping:
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Spicy buffalo sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken Wings
- Pat the wings dry with paper towels. Removing moisture is key to achieving a crispy crust.
- Optional: Trim any excess skin or wing tips if desired.
Step 2: Make the Parmesan Coating
- In a large bowl, combine grated parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and any optional spices. Mix well.
- Drizzle olive oil over the wings, then toss to coat evenly. This helps the parmesan mixture adhere to each wing.
Step 3: Coat the Wings
- Add wings to the parmesan mixture and toss until each wing is fully coated. Ensure even coverage for maximum flavor and crunch.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps the wings crisp.
Step 5: Cook the Wings
- Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
- Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 25–28 minutes, flipping halfway through. Wings should be golden, crispy, and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Optional Extra Crisp
- For extra crunch, increase temperature to 400°F (204°C) for the last 2–3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve
- Transfer wings to a platter. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges, ranch, or blue cheese dressing.
- These wings are best served hot and fresh, but they also reheat well in the air fryer.
Video
Notes
📝 Notes
- Pat chicken wings dry for the crispiest texture.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for better flavor and browning.
- Breadcrumbs can be swapped with panko for extra crunch.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- Flip wings halfway through cooking for even crisping.
- Add garlic powder or paprika for extra seasoning.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.