Making these baked garlic parmesan boneless wings was such an exciting and satisfying experience! The crispy golden chicken paired with the creamy, cheesy garlic sauce was, in a word, perfection.
When I served them to my family, they disappeared from the table in minutes. The best part? They’re baked, not fried, so they’re a little lighter without compromising any flavor. If you’re looking for a fun snack or an easy dinner option, these “wings” are a must-try.
For a comforting Southern twist, consider pairing these wings with the best Louisiana white beans recipe for a complete and satisfying meal.
What You’ll Need to Make These Wings
Here’s everything you need for this delicious recipe. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Boneless chicken breasts or thighs (2 pounds) – Use fresh chicken for tenderness. Thighs add extra juiciness, while breasts keep it lean.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon) – Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon) – Balances the seasoning without overpowering.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon) – Essential for enhancing the garlic factor.
- Salt and black pepper – Season to taste for bold flavors.
- Flour or gluten-free flour (2 tablespoons) – Creates a light coating that gives the wings their crispiness.
- Grated parmesan (2 tablespoons) – Infuses cheesy goodness into the chicken coating.
- Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons) – Helps the chicken get that perfect oven-baked texture.
For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Salted butter (4 tablespoons) – Provides a rich base for the sauce.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2 cloves) – The star ingredient for bold garlicky flavor.
- Heavy cream (1 cup) – Creamy and smooth, bringing everything together.
- Grated parmesan cheese (¾ cup) – Makes the sauce irresistibly cheesy.
- Cayenne pepper (¼ teaspoon) – Optional, but it adds just a touch of heat for contrast.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Note: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Easy Variations to Customize this Recipe
Want to make these wings your own? Here are some easy swaps and add-ons you can try.
- Dairy-Free: Swap butter and cream for plant-based alternatives like coconut cream or vegan butter.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour.
- Extra Heat: Toss in some red chili flakes or more cayenne for spicier wings.
- Herb Lovers: Add dried oregano or basil to the breading mix for an earthy twist.
- Low-Carb: Skip the flour and use almond flour as an alternative.
For a hearty and flavorful meal, you might also love trying parmesan-crusted chicken sheet pan dinner, which is equally satisfying and easy to prepare.
Cooking Time
Making these wings is pretty quick and fuss-free. Here’s the breakdown of the time you’ll need.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Equipment You’ll Need
To get started, gather these kitchen tools. Each plays an important role in simplifying the process!
- Baking sheet – For placing the wings in the oven evenly.
- Parchment paper – Keeps the chicken from sticking while baking.
- Mixing bowl – For tossing and seasoning the chicken.
- Large skillet – Ideal for making the garlic parmesan sauce.
- Wire rack – Optional, but it ensures extra-crispy chicken if used.
How to Make Baked Garlic Parmesan Boneless Wings
Making these wings is easier than it looks. Just follow these simple steps!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized cubes. Toss the chicken with smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Next, sprinkle the flour and grated parmesan over the chicken and mix until everything is evenly coated. Add a drizzle of olive oil and toss again to ensure a light, crispy texture when baked.
Step 2: Bake the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place the seasoned chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and lightly golden.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
While the chicken bakes, heat the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it begins to brown slightly, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for a minute. Slowly add the heavy cream, whisking constantly.
Gradually mix in the grated parmesan cheese and sprinkle in cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Allow the sauce to simmer gently until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken in Sauce
Take the chicken out of the oven once it’s done baking. Immediately pour the warm garlic parmesan sauce over the chicken and toss to coat each piece generously. The heat from the chicken helps the sauce stick perfectly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley and a bit of extra grated parmesan on top. Your wings are now ready to serve and enjoy!
Additional Tips to Make Your Wings Even Better
I’ve made this recipe a few times, and these tips have always made it a hit.
- Coat the chicken evenly by shaking off excess flour before placing it on the baking sheet.
- To get extra-crispy wings, bake them on a wire rack instead of directly on the pan.
- Always use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- For added richness, you can drizzle a bit of garlic-infused olive oil over the wings before serving.
- Don’t rush the sauce! Simmering allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken beautifully.
How to Serve Baked Garlic Parmesan Boneless Wings
These wings are super versatile and work well in various settings. Here are a few serving ideas to inspire you.
- Game-Day Snack: Serve with celery sticks, ranch, or blue cheese dressing on the side.
- Main Course: Pair with roasted vegetables or a green salad for a wholesome meal.
- Over Rice: Add steamed broccoli or zucchini and drizzle more sauce for a hearty dinner.
- Party Appetizer: Arrange on a platter with dipping sauce and garnish for a sophisticated touch.
Nutritional Information
This recipe isn’t just mouthwatering; it’s also packed with nutrients! Here’s a quick breakdown per serving.
- Calories: 490
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 33g
How to Store the Wings
Make extra? No problem! These wings store well for future indulgence.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: To retain crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F until warmed through.
You can also enjoy similar dinner recipes for more inspiration.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re not already convinced, here’s why these boneless wings are sure to win you over.
- Easy to Make: You can whip these up without a deep fryer or fancy techniques.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for parties, family dinners, and everything in between.
- Customizable: Ingredients can be tailored to suit various tastes and diets.
- Irresistible Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce is a game-changer.
- Healthier Option: They’re baked, not fried, so you can enjoy them guilt-free!
FAQs
Can I make these wings in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook the wings for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Can I use chicken tenders instead of cubes?
Yes! Feel free to use tenders and follow the same steps for baking and coating.
Is the sauce spicy?
The sauce is mild, but you can omit the cayenne pepper entirely if you prefer no heat.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Using thighs instead of breasts can help keep the chicken juicy, as they have more natural fat.