Start by placing a rack in the center of your oven and preheating it to 400°F. Preheating is crucial, as it helps the wings cook evenly and get that crispy texture we all love.
In a large bowl, combine ½ teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix these dry ingredients well to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
Add the chicken wings to the bowl along with 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil. Toss everything together, ensuring each wing is well coated with the seasoning. This step is key for maximizing flavor.
Next, arrange the seasoned wings on a large rimmed baking sheet, ensuring they have plenty of space to cook. This prevents them from steaming and helps achieve that perfect crisp.
Now, it’s time to bake. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the wings for about 30 minutes or until they are crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end, as ovens may vary.
While the wings are baking, let’s create the sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt ¼ cup unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Stir until everything is melted and smooth. This sauce is what takes the wings to the next level!
In the last few minutes of cooking, you’ll want to check the wings. They should be crispy. If you want an extra crunch, you can broil them for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Just watch closely to avoid burning.
When the wings are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the buttery garlic Parmesan sauce over the wings, tossing them gently to coat. Make sure each wing gets a generous amount of the sauce.
To serve, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice. The lemon adds a wonderful brightness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
