Crispy Chicken Wings With Homemade Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Ingredients

• 6 lbs Chicken Wings (About 24 wings, separated at the joints into flats and drumettes)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Kosher Salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Ground Black Pepper (Freshly ground recommended for best flavor)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Garlic Powder
• 8 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (1 stick, melted and slightly cooled)
• 2-3 cloves Garlic (Minced finely)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated, plus more for garnish)
• 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (Adds richness and tang to the sauce; can use full-fat or light)
• to taste Salt (Adjust to your preference)
• to taste Black Pepper (Adjust to your preference)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Chopped, divided; use some for the sauce and some to garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This allows for optimal air circulation, resulting in crispier wings and prevents sticking.
2. Thoroughly pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture from the skin is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness.
3. In a large bowl, combine the chicken wings with kosher salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss well until the wings are evenly coated with the dry seasonings. Ensure seasonings are evenly distributed for consistent flavor.
4. Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Leave space between the wings for best results; avoid stacking to promote even cooking and browning.
5. Bake the wings for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven and carefully flip each wing over to ensure even crisping on both sides. This also helps the wings cook more evenly.
6. Return the wings to the oven and continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a wing should read 165°F (74°C). Ensure internal temperature is reached for food safety.
7. While the wings are baking, prepare the garlic parmesan sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, and mayonnaise. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in half of the chopped fresh parsley. Set aside until the wings are ready. Whisk again before tossing with wings, as butter may separate.
8. Once the wings are fully cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the garlic parmesan sauce over the wings. Toss gently but thoroughly to evenly coat each wing with the sauce, ensuring every piece is covered in the flavorful sauce.
9. Transfer the coated wings to a serving platter. Garnish with the remaining chopped fresh parsley and additional grated parmesan cheese, if desired, for added flavor and visual appeal.
10. Serve immediately with extra garlic parmesan sauce, ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or Caesar dressing for dipping, along with carrot and celery sticks. Serve while hot for the best taste and texture.