Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Crispy and flavorful, Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings are the perfect dish for game day, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. These wings are not only easy to prepare but also packed with savory garlic and buttery goodness that will leave everyone wanting more. Whether you choose to bake them or use an air fryer, these wings always come out tender and juicy, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have these mouthwatering wings ready in no time.
• Crispy Texture – The baking powder helps achieve a delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
• Flavor Explosion – Infused with garlic and butter, each bite is bursting with rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Cooking Methods – Choose between oven baking or air frying based on your preference and available equipment.
• Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for parties, barbecues, or simply a tasty snack at home.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you will need to prepare these delicious wings.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet – Provides an even surface for cooking the wings, allowing them to crisp up nicely without sticking.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze after cooking.
• Large mixing bowl – Ideal for tossing chicken wings with seasonings and sauces evenly.
• Air fryer – Offers a quick cooking option that results in crispy wings without excess oil.

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 thoroughly using paper towels. This step is crucial for removing moisture which helps 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. Ensure all wings are evenly coated.

Step 4: Bake the Wings

Arrange the seasoned wings on the prepared sheet pan, leaving some space between each wing. Bake for 30 minutes. After that duration, flip the wings over and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

While the wings are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan. In a separate small bowl, combine melted butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 6: Toss in Sauce

Once your chicken wings are done baking, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the hot wings and toss until they are well coated.

Air Fryer Method (Optional)

If you prefer using an air fryer:
1. Pat dry chicken wings with paper towels.
2. Toss wings in 1 tablespoon of aluminum-free baking powder along with remaining seasonings.
3. Air fry at 400°F/200°C for about 20 minutes, shaking or flipping once or twice during cooking until fully cooked through.
4. Remove from air fryer and toss with garlic butter sauce before serving.

Enjoy your Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings, whether it’s game day or just another Tuesday night!

How to Serve Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Serving Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings is all about enhancing their delicious flavor and crispy texture. These wings are perfect for gatherings, casual dinners, or game day snacks. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A classic pairing that adds a cool and creamy contrast to the spicy garlic flavor.
• Blue Cheese Dip: For those who enjoy a tangy kick, this dip complements the wings beautifully.
• Honey Mustard: Sweet and savory, honey mustard adds an extra layer of flavor that balances the garlic butter.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Leaf Salad: Serve the wings over a fresh salad for a light and crunchy contrast.
• Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw paired with the juicy wings creates a delightful texture combination.

With Starch Sides

• French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit and make for a hearty meal alongside the wings.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread can help soak up any leftover sauce, making every bite enjoyable.

How to Perfect Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

To achieve the perfect Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings, follow these tips for optimal crispiness and flavor.

• Boldly Dry the Wings: Patting the chicken wings dry is crucial for achieving that desired crispiness during baking or frying.
• Boldly Use Baking Powder: This secret ingredient helps create a crispy exterior. Make sure it’s aluminum-free for best results.
• Boldly Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasonings. A well-seasoned wing is key to enhancing the overall taste.
• Boldly Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your wings in the oven or air fryer; adjusting time slightly can make all the difference in texture.
• Boldly Toss Immediately: Tossing the wings in the garlic butter sauce right after cooking ensures they absorb maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the rich flavors of the wings.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and crunch, balancing out the savory wings perfectly.
3. Vegetable Medley: A mix of steamed or roasted vegetables offers freshness and color to your plate.
4. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch and are easy to dip into sauces.
5. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad provides a cool side that pairs well with spicy flavors.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: These add a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with garlic butter chicken wings.
7. Cauliflower Rice: A lighter option, cauliflower rice can be flavored with herbs or spices to enhance your meal.
8. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious grain salad with veggies makes for a filling side that complements chicken well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not drying the wings properly: Failing to dry the chicken wings can lead to soggy skin. Use paper towels to absorb excess moisture before seasoning.
• Skipping the baking powder: Baking powder is key for achieving extra crispy wings. Don’t skip this step; it helps create that perfect crunch.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many wings on one pan can prevent them from cooking evenly. Arrange them with space in between for optimal crispiness.
• Using low-quality butter: High-quality butter enhances the flavor of your garlic sauce. Opt for unsalted, fresh butter for the best results.
• Not monitoring cooking time: Cooking times can vary depending on your oven or air fryer. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
• Skipping the toss in sauce: For maximum flavor, toss the wings in the garlic butter sauce right after baking. This ensures every wing is coated and delicious.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken wings in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

• Allow wings to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Microwave: Place wings on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely with a paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little butter, and toss the wings until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings.

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking them for best results.

How do I make my wings spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add hot sauce directly into your garlic butter sauce.

Can I bake these wings without baking powder?

While you can bake them without baking powder, using it will help achieve a crispier texture that everyone loves.

How long does it take to cook chicken wings in an air fryer?

Generally, air frying chicken wings takes about 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C), flipping halfway through for even cooking.

What sides pair well with garlic butter chicken wings?

These delicious wings pair well with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a refreshing salad on the side.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s game day or a cozy dinner at home. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors easily by adding spices or sauces of your choice. Give this recipe a try and enjoy juicy, flavorful wings that everyone will rave about!