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Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Garlic and Parmesan Chicken Wings

Chicken wings are a beloved staple of comfort food, offering a delightful combination of flavours and textures that can satisfy any craving. Now, with the advent of the air fryer, achieving that perfect crispy texture has never been easier or healthier. In this article, we’ll guide you through creating perfectly crispy air fryer garlic and Parmesan chicken wings that are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients

To make these delicious wings, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Wings:

• 1 kg chicken wings
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminium-free)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• 70g unsalted butter, melted
• 4 garlic cloves, minced or crushed
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• More salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Wings

Begin by rinsing the chicken wings under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Ensuring that your wings are dry is crucial for achieving that coveted crispiness.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. The baking powder is the secret ingredient that will help to elevate the crispiness of the wings.

Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are well coated in the seasoning mixture. Ensure that each wing is evenly covered.

Step 2: Air Fry the Wings

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (around 390°F). Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring that there is space between them for proper air circulation. If you have a small air fryer, you may need to do this in batches.

Cook the wings for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The wings are done when they are golden brown and crispy. If you desire extra crispiness, you can increase the temperature to 220°C (around 425°F) for the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

While the wings are cooking, prepare the garlic Parmesan sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Remove the pan from the heat, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until everything is combined. If desired, you can add a pinch of salt and pepper for more flavour.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Once the chicken wings are cooked, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the garlic Parmesan sauce over the wings and toss until the wings are fully coated.

To serve, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of colour and an extra layer of flavour. Pair your delicious chicken wings with celery sticks and your favourite dipping sauces, such as blue cheese or ranch.

Conclusion

These perfectly crispy air fryer garlic and Parmesan chicken wings are a fantastic addition to any gathering or simply as a special treat for yourself. Not only are they healthier than traditional fried wings, but they are also packed with flavour and sure to satisfy your cravings. So why not give them a try? With minimal effort and maximum taste, these wings are bound to become a favourite in your household!