Lover’s Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Name: Lover’s Garlic Butter Chicken Wings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 8 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Classics Recipes

I can't resist the allure of garlic butter chicken wings, especially when they're made with love! The combination of rich, savory flavors combined with the juicy tenderness of chicken wings creates a treat that’s perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in. Every bite is an experience itself, bursting with garlicky goodness that clings to the wings, making you want more. Whether it’s game night or a special occasion, these wings are sure to impress your guests and please your palate!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-17T15:08:28.820Z

When I first attempted making these wings, I experimented with a variety of flavors, but it’s really the garlic butter that makes them special. Sautéing fresh minced garlic in butter captivates the essence of what's to come, enveloping the wings in an aromatic embrace. It's such a simple method, but it really amplifies the overall flavor, creating a heavenly experience.

The secret I learned after making these several times is marinating the wings beforehand. Just a quick soak in a mix of garlic, butter, and herbs not only boosts the flavor but ensures that every bite is juicy and satisfying. Trust me, it’s worth the extra time!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly rich garlic butter sauce that elevates each bite.
Crispy texture on the outside, tender meat on the inside.
Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo.

      

The Key to Perfectly Cooked Wings

Achieving the perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat is essential when making garlic butter chicken wings. The initial seasoning of wings with salt and pepper not only enhances their flavor but also helps draw out excess moisture, leading to a crispier texture. When arranging the wings on your baking sheet, ensure they are spaced apart; crowding them can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which will diminish that coveted crunch.

Baking at 400°F (200°C) is ideal, as it allows the wings to cook evenly while developing a beautiful golden-brown color. Flipping the wings halfway through roasting ensures that both sides achieve that crunchy exterior. Look for a deep golden color and crispy skin when they are done, which typically takes around 30 minutes. If you desire extra crispiness, broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes, just keeping an eye on them to avoid burning.

The Magic of Garlic Butter

The garlic butter sauce is where this recipe shines, bringing a rich and robust flavor that elevates the wings into something truly special. Cooking the minced garlic just until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, is key; overcooking will turn it bitter, overshadowing the wings' flavor. I recommend using freshly minced garlic for the best results, as pre-minced varieties often lack the pungency needed to make a powerful impact in the sauce.

Incorporating fresh parsley and a splash of lemon juice not only adds flavor but also contributes a beautiful color contrast to the golden wings. The red pepper flakes are optional, but they deliver a lovely kick—just be mindful of how spicy you want your dish. If serving guests with diverse tastes, consider offering the red pepper on the side so everyone can customize their heat level.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you find yourself with leftover garlic butter chicken wings, don’t fret—they store remarkably well. Allow them to cool completely, then place the wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, I recommend using the oven or an air fryer to restore the crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the wings for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even heating.

For serving, these wings can be paired with a variety of dips like ranch or blue cheese dressing. Additionally, they work excellently as an appetizer at gatherings. For a unique twist, serve them atop a bed of fresh greens with a drizzle of extra garlic butter for a delectable salad that merges flavors beautifully. Whether shared among friends or enjoyed solo, these wings are a delectable treat.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your delicious wings!

For the Chicken Wings

2 pounds chicken wings
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

1/2 cup unsalted butter
8 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect garlic butter chicken wings.

Prepare the Chicken Wings

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the chicken wings and pat them dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, season the wings with salt and black pepper, tossing them to ensure an even coating.

Bake the Wings

Arrange the seasoned wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they crisp up evenly.

Make the Garlic Butter

While the wings are baking, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but do not let it brown. Remove from heat, then stir in the parsley, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.

Toss and Serve

Once the wings are cooked, remove them from the oven and immediately toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Ensure each wing is well coated before serving warm.

Enjoy your wings with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra crispy wings, consider broiling them for an additional 5 minutes after baking. You can also customize the garlic butter by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for different flavor profiles.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to cut down on calories, consider using a mix of chicken breast and wings, or you can opt for baked chicken tenderloins. For those sensitive to dairy, vegan butter can be an excellent alternative to unsalted butter, and using a plant-based alternative can yield a similar garlicky richness. Don’t forget that garlic powder can also come in handy if you’re in a pinch, though I recommend fresh garlic for its potent flavor.

Fresh herbs can be substituted based on availability; basil or chives can work nicely in place of parsley for a different flavor profile. Furthermore, if you want to elevate the taste even more, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the garlic butter for an umami boost, enriching the overall flavor of your wings.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your wings aren’t crispy enough, a couple of adjustments can help. Make sure they are patted dry thoroughly before seasoning—excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness. If you notice that the wings are browning too quickly, consider lowering the oven temperature slightly and extending the baking time to allow the meat to cook through without burning the skin.

In case you’ve accidentally overcooked the garlic in the butter, don’t hesitate to remix your sauce by adding in some additional butter to balance out the bitterness. A little sugar or honey can also sweeten the sauce slightly if needed, bringing back a hint of that rich garlic flavor you desire without the overpowering bitterness.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing wings ahead of time can simplify your hosting duties. You can season the wings and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This not only intensifies the flavor but also allows you to save time on the big day. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before baking to promote even cooking.

Additionally, you can make the garlic butter sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stove before tossing it with the freshly baked wings. This way, you maintain the integrity of the flavors without having to rush during the cooking process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken wings?

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

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I grill the wings instead of baking?

Absolutely! Just grill them over medium heat, turning frequently until fully cooked and crispy.

→ What dips pair well with garlic butter wings?

Blue cheese or ranch dressing complements the garlic flavors beautifully!