Lover’s Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Name: Lover’s Garlic Butter Chicken Wings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Hearty & Delicious Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, garlic butter chicken wings quickly become my favorite. I love how the rich garlic butter bathes each wing, infusing it with decadent flavor while keeping the meat tender and juicy. The aroma that fills my kitchen while these wings bake is irresistible, and I can't help but sneak a taste before they're even served. These wings are perfect for date night or game day, and trust me, they'll impress anyone you share them with!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-17T16:48:29.021Z

As I ventured into the world of chicken wings, I was determined to create a recipe that stood out. I experimented with different marinades but found that melding garlic with butter truly elevated the experience. This combination not only adds depth to the flavor but also enhances the crispy skin. I remember the first time I served them—they vanished in minutes, leaving everyone wanting more!

For an added twist, I often toss the wings in a sprinkle of fresh herbs post-baking. This little touch not only adds freshness but complements the rich garlic butter beautifully. It's those tiny details that make a recipe unforgettable!

        Why You'll Love These Wings
        Irresistible garlic butter flavor that coats every bite
Crispy skin with a juicy, tender interior
A crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion

      

Perfecting Your Chicken Wings

When preparing chicken wings, it's essential to achieve a balance between crispiness and juiciness. After seasoning the wings with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, let them sit for about 30 minutes at room temperature. This step allows the wings to absorb the seasoning better and will help render some fat during baking, contributing to a crispy texture.

Using a baking sheet lined with parchment paper not only simplifies cleanup but also promotes even cooking. If you have a wire rack, consider placing the wings on it while they bake. This allows air circulation all around the wings, enhancing their crispiness as the fat drips away.

Homemade Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is where the magic happens. Sautéing the minced garlic in melted butter over medium heat is crucial; you want the garlic to soften and release its flavors without browning, which can introduce a bitter taste. Aim for a fragrant aroma, about 2-3 minutes, before adding the fresh parsley.

If you prefer a spicier kick, the red pepper flakes can be adjusted to your taste. Feel free to substitute with cayenne pepper for a bolder flavor or omit it completely for milder wings. The butter sauce can be made ahead of time and gently reheated before tossing with the wings.

Serving and Storing Your Wings

These garlic butter chicken wings shine brightest when served immediately. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, an oven works best: preheat it to 375°F (190°C), then heat the wings on a lined baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

For a creative serving suggestion, try pairing the wings with a dipping sauce like blue cheese or ranch. You can also serve them alongside celery sticks and carrot sticks for a classic touch, adding a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich garlic butter wings.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Wings

2 pounds chicken wings
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Wings

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated. Spread the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Wings

Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

While the wings are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.

Coat the Wings

Once the wings are done, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the garlic butter sauce over them. Toss well to coat each wing thoroughly.

Serving

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, consider broiling the wings for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep an eye on them, though, as they can burn quickly!

Key Technique Tips

Ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing the chicken wings inside. This allows the wings to begin cooking immediately, which helps achieve that desired crispy exterior. An ambient temperature can often lead to uneven cooking, so let your oven do its job by waiting until it reaches 400°F (200°C).

When flipping the wings halfway through baking, make sure to use tongs to maintain their crispiness. Gently turn each wing to minimize the loss of any seasoning or crispy coating, which gives you that perfect texture in every bite.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

The chicken wings are the star of this dish, providing a canvas for the rich flavors of the garlic butter. Drumettes and flats can be used interchangeably; just ensure you adjust cooking times if you're working with larger or smaller pieces. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with chicken drumsticks or thighs, keeping in mind that their cooking times may vary slightly.

Butter is the base of the garlic sauce, but you can swap it with ghee or olive oil for a different flavor profile or dietary needs. For dairy-free options, consider using vegan butter. This will still provide a delicious coating while catering to different dietary preferences.

Scaling Up and Variations

Scaling this recipe for larger gatherings is easy; simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Just be mindful of the cooking space in your oven, as overcrowding can cause uneven cooking. Consider using multiple baking sheets if necessary, ensuring you maintain a single layer of wings for optimal crispiness.

Feel free to play with flavors in your garlic butter sauce. Add lemon zest for a refreshing touch, or a splash of soy sauce for an umami kick. Experimenting with different herbs, like thyme or oregano, can also provide delightful variations that keep this dish interesting each time you serve it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, just make sure to fully thaw them before seasoning and baking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these wings in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these wings?

Some great options include ranch, blue cheese, or even a spicy buffalo sauce for those who like heat!