Garlic Parmesan Wing Sauce for Wings, Tenders, or Dipping

Garlic parmesan wings with garnish on a plate beside garlic parmesan dipping sauce.

5 from 1 vote

Garlic Parmesan Wing Sauce for Wings, Tenders, or Dipping

This easy, buttery Garlic Parmesan Wing Sauce for wings, tenders, or dipping is the game day favorite we keep returning to. It’s a flavorful creamy sauce made with real butter, fresh garlic, heavy cream, and finely grated Parmesan cheese. It coats air-fried wings like a dream!

Prep Time5

Cook Time20

Total Time25

Course: Appetizer, Lunch, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 1043kcal

Author: Jami Powell

Equipment

Air Fryer
Small saucepan
Microplane or fine grater (for Parmesan)
Mixing bowl (for tossing wings in sauce)
Silicone spatula or whisk

Ingredients

10-12 chicken wings (flats and drumettes) air-fry or bake
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
5 garlic cloves finely chopped
⅓ cup heavy cream
½ cup finely grated Parmigiano Reggiano 1.5 ounces, grated with a Microplane or fine zester
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
chopped parsley optional for garnish

Instructions

Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels. Coat with oil and season lightly with kosher salt, black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
Air fry at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden, crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For the juiciest, most flavorful wings, aim for 175–185°F if using a meat thermometer.
In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid browning.
Pour in heavy cream, then slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan until fully melted and smooth. Stir in garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
Place hot wings in a large mixing bowl. Pour warm garlic parmesan sauce over the wings and toss until evenly coated. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Video

Notes

Food Safety: While 165°F is safe, many chefs recommend cooking wings to 175–185°F to render the fat and get that perfect crispy, juicy bite.

Storage Store leftover garlic parmesan wing sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freeze This dish is not freezer-friendly.

Reheat: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each.

Substitutions

Wings: Use boneless wings or chicken tenders for easier eating or a kid-friendly option.
Butter: Use ghee for a richer, nuttier taste.

Adjustments Cooking time may need to be adjusted based on the geography of the area (high vs. low elevation), cookware (stoneware vs traditional bakeware), and outdoor temperature if grilling.

Nutrition information is only an estimate

Nutrition