These Baked Garlic Parmesan Boneless Wings are the ultimate game-day snack! They’re easy to make, crispy, and coated in a rich, garlicky parmesan sauce. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main dish with sides like homemade fries or a fresh salad, they are guaranteed to be a hit!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup flour (or gluten-free flour)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp salted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it with oil.
- In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken with smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add flour and parmesan cheese, tossing again to coat. Drizzle with olive oil and mix well.
- Spread the chicken evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked.
- While the chicken bakes, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter until it begins to brown (about 3-5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and slowly pour in the heavy cream.
- Whisk in the grated parmesan cheese and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, whisking until smooth. Keep warm over low heat.
- Once the chicken is done baking, pour the parmesan sauce over the crispy chicken and toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese. Serve hot with homemade fries or as a main dish with rice and vegetables. Enjoy!
Nutrients (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 490 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
- Sodium: 720mg
Perfect for game nights, gatherings, or even a quick and delicious dinner option!
Why Choose Baked Over Fried?
One of the biggest advantages of making baked boneless wings is that you get all the crispiness without the deep-frying process. Frying requires a lot of oil and can often result in an overly greasy texture. Baking, on the other hand, allows the chicken to develop a golden-brown, crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Plus, baking makes the cooking process more straightforward with less mess and cleanup.
Another major benefit is that baking retains the natural flavors of the chicken while allowing the garlic parmesan sauce to stand out. The coating crisps up beautifully in the oven, creating the perfect base for the rich and creamy parmesan sauce that gets drizzled on top.
The Secret to Crispy Boneless Wings
Achieving that perfect crispy texture without deep frying requires a few essential techniques:
- Proper Coating: Coating the chicken in a mixture of flour and grated parmesan cheese before baking adds a crispy crust.
- Even Baking: Spreading the chicken pieces evenly on a lined baking sheet ensures even cooking and a golden-brown finish.
- High Heat: Baking at a high temperature (450°F) allows the chicken to crisp up without drying out.
- Light Oil Drizzle: Tossing the coated chicken in a little olive oil before baking helps achieve a crunchier texture.
By following these steps, you get a result that’s just as satisfying as traditional fried wings but without the guilt.
The Flavor Explosion: Garlic Parmesan Sauce
What sets these boneless wings apart from other recipes is the irresistible garlic parmesan sauce. This creamy, garlicky, and slightly spicy sauce adds an extra layer of decadence to the crispy chicken.
- Garlic: The key to enhancing the flavor is using freshly minced garlic instead of pre-packaged garlic paste. Sautéing the garlic in butter releases its natural aroma, making the sauce incredibly fragrant.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan cheese thickens the sauce while giving it a rich, savory taste.
- Heavy Cream: This ingredient provides the sauce with a smooth, velvety texture that coats the chicken beautifully.
- Cayenne Pepper: While optional, cayenne pepper adds a slight heat that balances out the creamy flavors.
Once the wings are done baking, they are tossed in this mouthwatering sauce, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
Best Ways to Serve Garlic Parmesan Boneless Wings
These wings are versatile and can be served in multiple ways:
- As an Appetizer: Perfect for game nights, parties, or casual gatherings. Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for an extra layer of flavor.
- With Homemade Fries: Crispy fries make an excellent companion, adding a classic comfort food feel to your meal.
- Over Rice or Pasta: Transform these boneless wings into a full meal by serving them over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy pasta.
- With a Fresh Salad: If you’re looking for a lighter option, pair them with a crisp, refreshing salad for a balanced meal.
Tips for Making the Best Baked Boneless Wings
To ensure you get the best possible results, here are some extra tips:
- Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh boneless chicken breast or thighs provide the best texture and flavor compared to frozen ones.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After coating the chicken, let it sit for a few minutes before baking. This helps the flour mixture adhere better, creating a crispier crust.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Ensure the chicken pieces have space between them on the baking sheet to allow proper air circulation.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you want an even crispier finish, broil the baked chicken for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time.
- Use Quality Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan has a better flavor and melts more smoothly into the sauce compared to pre-packaged options.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
There are plenty of boneless wing recipes out there, but what makes this one stand out is the combination of crispiness, creaminess, and bold flavor. The high-heat baking method ensures a crispy exterior, while the garlic parmesan sauce adds a rich, indulgent touch. Plus, the balance between the garlicky notes, cheesy goodness, and optional heat from the cayenne makes this dish a crowd-pleaser for all taste preferences.
Another great aspect of this recipe is its flexibility. It can be easily adjusted to accommodate dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative. If you want a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a healthier sauce option without compromising flavor.
Conclusion
Baked Garlic Parmesan Boneless Wings are the perfect combination of crispy, flavorful, and easy-to-make. By opting for baking instead of frying, you get a healthier version of your favorite wings while maintaining a crispy texture. The rich, garlicky parmesan sauce elevates the dish to another level, making it ideal for game nights, family dinners, or even meal prep.
This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing you to pair it with various sides such as homemade fries, salads, or rice. With a few simple tricks, you can achieve restaurant-quality boneless wings right from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or just looking for a new way to enjoy chicken, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
Try this recipe out and watch it become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy, garlicky bite!