Why You’ll Love Parmesan Chicken Wingettes & Drummettes Recipe
These parmesan chicken wingettes and drummettes are incredibly easy to make and pack a bold, cheesy punch. They’re baked or air-fried instead of deep-fried, making them a slightly healthier option without compromising on flavor or texture. Perfect for both kids and adults, this dish makes a great party platter or casual meal. The crispy coating with real parmesan cheese creates a golden crust that is hard to resist. Plus, you can easily adjust the spices or serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken wingettes and drummettes
parmesan cheese, finely grated
garlic powder
onion powder
paprika
salt
black pepper
olive oil or melted butter
fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), or preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
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Pat the chicken wingettes and drummettes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
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In a large bowl, drizzle the chicken with olive oil or melted butter and toss to coat evenly.
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In a separate bowl, combine parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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Add the cheese mixture to the chicken and toss until each piece is well coated.
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Arrange the wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet or in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
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Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, or air fry for 22–25 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
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Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes (oven) or 22–25 minutes (air fryer)
Total time: about 45–50 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Parmesan Wings: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the cheese mixture for a kick of heat.
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Lemon Garlic Parmesan: Add lemon zest to the dry seasoning mix and serve with lemon wedges.
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Buffalo-Parmesan Combo: Toss the cooked wings in buffalo sauce, then sprinkle with more parmesan before serving.
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Herb Infused: Add dried Italian herbs like oregano and thyme to the cheese blend.
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Breaded Style: Mix in some breadcrumbs with the parmesan for an extra crunchy crust.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain the crispiness.
FAQs
How do I make the wings extra crispy?
Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer basket. A wire rack helps with air circulation during baking.
Can I use grated parmesan from a bottle?
Freshly grated parmesan is recommended for best flavor and texture, but bottled parmesan can work in a pinch.
Are these wings gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all your ingredients are gluten-free, especially the parmesan and any seasoning blends.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can season the wings in advance and refrigerate them for a few hours before cooking. Cook them just before serving for best results.
What dipping sauces go well with these wings?
Ranch, garlic aioli, marinara, or even a creamy buffalo dip pair well with these cheesy wings.
Can I grill these instead of baking?
Yes, grill them over medium heat until cooked through and golden, turning occasionally.
How do I know when the wings are done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The outside should be golden and crispy.
Can I use drumsticks instead of wingettes and drummettes?
You can, but the cooking time will be longer due to the size. Adjust accordingly and monitor doneness.
Is it okay to freeze leftover wings?
Yes, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just be sure not to overcrowd the pan or air fryer. Cook in batches if needed.
Conclusion
Parmesan Chicken Wingettes & Drummettes are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings comfort and crowd-pleasing appeal to your table. Whether you’re hosting a party, making a weeknight meal, or preparing snacks for game day, these wings deliver crispy, cheesy goodness in every bite. With simple ingredients and endless variations, they’re bound to become a favorite in your rotation.
