Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, these Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings are perfect for game days, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. With their golden exterior and succulent meat, this recipe guarantees tender wings tossed in a rich garlic-infused butter sauce that will keep everyone coming back for more. Whether you choose to bake them or use an air fryer, these chicken wings are simple to prepare and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Get these delicious wings on the table in just 45 minutes, including prep time!
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Enjoy the option of baking or air frying to suit your kitchen preferences.
• Flavor Explosion: The garlic butter sauce adds a rich depth of flavor that elevates every bite.
• Crispy Texture: Achieve that perfect crispy skin without deep frying, making them healthier yet satisfying.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for parties, family dinners, or as a tasty snack while binge-watching your favorite shows.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the following essential tools. These will help ensure your chicken wings cook perfectly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Air fryer (optional)
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for even cooking in the oven while allowing grease to drain away.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for tossing your wings with seasonings and sauces to ensure even coating.
• Air fryer: Offers a quicker cooking method that results in crispy wings with less oil than traditional frying.

Ingredients

Crispy golden oven baked chicken wings tossed in a garlic-infused butter sauce are tender and juicy and come out perfect every time!

For the Chicken Wings

• 2 pounds chicken wings (drumettes and flats separated and wing tips cut off)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder (aluminum-free)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

• ½ stick unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425°F/220°C. Line a half sheet size baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Wings

Dry chicken wings with paper towels. This is an important step to get rid of the moisture as much as possible and get crispy wings.

Step 3: Season the Wings

In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with baking powder, salt, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

Arrange the wings on the sheet pan leaving some space between each wing. Bake for 30 minutes, then flip and bake for 10 more minutes until they are golden brown.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

To make the sauce, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. In a mixing bowl combine melted butter with minced garlic and parsley. Mix well until combined.

Step 6: Toss Wings in Sauce

Toss chicken wings with sauce in a large mixing bowl after you remove them from the oven. Ensure they are well coated before serving.

Air Fryer Method (Optional)

Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Toss wings in 1 tablespoon of aluminum-free baking powder only along with the rest of the seasonings. Air fry at 400°F/200°C for about 20 minutes, shaking or flipping once or twice until cooked through. Remove from the air fryer and toss wings with garlic butter sauce before serving.

How to Serve Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Serving Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings can be a delightful experience, whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. These wings pair wonderfully with various sides and dips, making them versatile and enjoyable for all.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that complements the garlic flavor perfectly.
• Buffalo Sauce: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, buffalo sauce adds heat and flavor.
• Blue Cheese Dip: This creamy dip pairs well with the crispy wings and adds richness.

On a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Toss the wings on a fresh Caesar salad for an exciting twist on the classic dish.
• Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw balances the tender wings beautifully.

As Part of a Platter

• Appetizer Platter: Serve your wings alongside other finger foods like veggies and chips for a fun snack spread.
• Game Day Spread: Perfect for Super Bowl parties, serve with nachos and sliders to create an unforgettable feast.

How to Perfect Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Achieving perfect Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your wings turn out crispy and flavorful every time.

• Use Baking Powder: This is key to achieving that crispy texture. It helps draw moisture away from the skin.
• Pat Dry Thoroughly: Before seasoning, make sure your chicken wings are completely dry to enhance crispiness during baking or frying.
• Space Them Out: When placing the wings on the baking sheet or air fryer basket, make sure they are not touching. This allows hot air to circulate, promoting even cooking.
• Toss in Sauce After Cooking: For maximum crunch, always toss your wings in sauce right after baking or frying. This keeps them from getting soggy.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste. Adding herbs can elevate the flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Complementing your Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings with the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A delicious pairing that echoes the garlic flavors in the wings.
2. French Fries: Crispy fries provide a satisfying crunch alongside tender chicken.
3. Vegetable Sticks: Fresh carrot and celery sticks add a healthy crunch and are perfect for dipping.
4. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges offer hearty satisfaction next to spicy wings.
5. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad provides balance and comfort against spicy flavors.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness that pairs well with savory wings.
7. Baked Beans: Sweet barbecue baked beans complement the flavors of garlic butter chicken perfectly.
8. Rice Pilaf: A light rice dish can absorb any extra sauce while adding heartiness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings, it’s crucial to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final outcome.

• Bold phrase: Not drying the wings properly. Moisture can prevent your wings from becoming crispy. Always pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning.
• Bold phrase: Skipping the baking powder. Baking powder is key for achieving crispy skin. Don’t skip this ingredient; it makes a big difference.
• Bold phrase: Overcrowding the baking sheet. If wings are too close together, they won’t cook evenly. Leave space between each wing for better air circulation.
• Bold phrase: Ignoring the sauce mixing time. Mix the garlic and parsley into the melted butter thoroughly to ensure an even coating on your wings.
• Bold phrase: Not flipping during cooking. Flipping your wings halfway through baking or air frying helps them cook evenly and get that golden brown color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow wings to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze without sauce and add it when reheating.

Reheating Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F/190°C and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings.

What can I substitute for butter in Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings?

You can use plant-based margarine or olive oil as alternatives if you prefer a dairy-free option.

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

How do I make my wings spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or toss them in hot sauce after cooking for an extra kick.

Can I bake these wings instead of air frying?

Absolutely! The baking method produces crispy and flavorful wings, just like the air fryer.

How long should I cook chicken wings in an air fryer?

Cook them at 400°F/200°C for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for best results.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can customize them by adjusting spices or adding different sauces after cooking. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering or family dinner!