Hello friends, Chef André here!
If you’re a fan of crispy chicken wings with bold flavor, these Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Wings are about to become your new favorite.I’ve tested dozens of wing recipes over the years, and this one stands out for a simple reason: maximum crunch and flavor without deep frying.
The Air Fryer delivers golden, crispy skin, while the parmesan crust adds a savory, cheesy bite that takes these wings to another level.
Perfect for game day, parties, or an easy weeknight dinner, these Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Wings are fast, crowd-pleasing, and dangerously addictive.
Why These Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Wings Are a Must
Here’s why this recipe works every single time:
- Ultra crispy thanks to the Air Fryer
- Bold garlic-parmesan flavor in every bite
- Healthier than deep-fried wings
- Quick & easy, ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect for parties, snacks, or dinner
These wings disappear fast—consider yourself warned.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Wings
Simple ingredients, big payoff:
- 2 lbs chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Smart Substitutions by Chef André
- Panko breadcrumbs (2 tbsp) for extra crunch
- Smoked paprika for deeper flavor
- Fresh garlic mixed into melted butter after cooking
- Pecorino Romano instead of parmesan for sharper taste
Step-by-Step Preparation – Chef André Guides You
1. Prep the Wings
Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels.
👉 This step is key for crispy skin.
Place wings in a large bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and oregano.
2. Add the Parmesan Coating
Sprinkle grated parmesan over the wings and toss until evenly coated.
3. Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Preheat Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange wings in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
- Cook for 12 minutes
- Flip wings
- Cook another 10–12 minutes until golden and crispy
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Final Touch
Remove wings and garnish with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of parmesan.
Serve immediately for best crunch.
Creative Variations by Chef André
Switch things up with these tasty ideas:
🌶 Spicy Parmesan Wings
Add chili flakes or cayenne to the seasoning mix.
🧄 Garlic Butter Parmesan Wings
Toss wings in melted garlic butter after air frying.
🍋 Lemon Parmesan Wings
Finish with fresh lemon zest and juice.
🧀 Extra Cheesy Crust
Add a little shredded mozzarella during the last 2 minutes.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Wings
- Dry wings thoroughly – moisture prevents crispiness
- Don’t overcrowd the basket – air circulation matters
- Flip halfway for even browning
- Use freshly grated parmesan for better melting and flavor
Avoid adding cheese too early—it can burn if overheated.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Wings
These wings pair perfectly with:
- Ranch or garlic aioli
- Celery and carrot sticks
- Air Fryer fries or potato wedges
- Fresh green salad
They’re also great as a standalone appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers up to 3 days
- Reheat: Air Fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes
- Avoid microwave – it softens the crust
Freezing cooked wings is not recommended for best texture.
FAQ – Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Wings
Do I need baking powder for crispiness?
No—proper drying and high heat are enough.
Can I use frozen wings?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry first.
Why isn’t my parmesan crust sticking?
Use freshly grated cheese and lightly oiled wings.
Can I make them ahead?
They’re best fresh, but can be reheated in the Air Fryer.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~480 kcal
- Protein: 38 g
- Fat: 34 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
(Values vary based on cheese and wing size.)
Conclusion – Chef André’s Crispy Favorite 🍗✨
These Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Wings prove that you don’t need a fryer full of oil to enjoy ultra-crispy, flavor-packed wings. Cheesy, garlicky, and perfectly golden, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at your table.
If you try this recipe, leave a comment, rate it, and tell me your favorite variation!
For safe handling and storage of poultry, I always recommend USDA Food Safety:
Happy cooking,
Chef André 👨🍳