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Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings With Ranch Dressing - Crispy, Savory, and Easy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken wings (about 2 pounds, split into flats and drumettes)
  • Olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • Baking powder (aluminum-free, for crisping)
  • Garlic (4–5 cloves, finely minced) or garlic powder for a milder option
  • Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
  • Parmesan cheese (about 3/4 cup, finely grated)
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
  • Lemon (zest and a squeeze of juice, optional but brightens the flavor)
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Onion powder (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • Ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)

Method
 

  1. Prep the wings: Pat the wings dry with paper towels until the skin looks matte. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
  2. Season and coat: In a large bowl, toss wings with 1 tablespoon oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional), and 1 tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder. The baking powder creates a light, crisp shell.
  3. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 390–400°F (200°C). Give the basket a quick spray of oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Air fry, first round: Arrange wings in a single layer without crowding. Cook for 18 minutes, flipping halfway. If your air fryer is small, cook in batches.
  5. Make the garlic butter: While wings cook, melt 4 tablespoons butter in a small pan over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant, not browned. Stir in 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like. Remove from heat.
  6. Second round for extra crisp: Increase air fryer to 400°F (if not already) and cook wings 5–7 more minutes, until deep golden and crisp. Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
  7. Toss in sauce: Transfer hot wings to a large bowl. Pour over the warm garlic-parmesan butter. Toss to coat, then add remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan and a little lemon zest for brightness. Taste and adjust salt.
  8. Garnish and serve: Shower with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if you like. Serve immediately with chilled ranch dressing for dipping.