1-Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. This high temperature is crucial for rendering the fat from the chicken skin and creating that desirable crispy texture. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a sheet of parchment paper on top. The foil makes cleanup easy while the parchment prevents the wings from sticking. Lightly spray the parchment with oil for extra insurance against sticking.

2-Step 2: Dry and Season the Wings Pat the chicken wings thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step cannot be overstated in its importance. Moisture is the enemy of crispy skin, and taking time to remove surface water pays off in the final texture. Once dry, place the wings in a large bowl or zip-top bag. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the wings and toss until each piece is evenly coated. The baking powder works by raising the pH of the chicken skin, which causes it to brown more quickly and develop a crunchier texture. Shake off any excess coating before arranging the wings on your prepared baking sheet.

3-Step 3: First Bake Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared pan, making sure they don’t touch each other. Crowding the pan traps steam and prevents proper browning. If necessary, use two baking sheets to give each wing enough space. Bake the wings for 20 minutes at 425°F. Remove the pan from the oven and carefully flip each wing using tongs. This ensures even cooking on both sides. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the wings appear golden brown and the skin looks crispy.

4-Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce While the wings bake, prepare the sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and hot sauce. Whisk until smooth and creamy. The sauce should have a pourable consistency.

5-Step 5: First Sauce Coating and High-Heat Finish Remove the crispy wings from the oven and place them in a clean large bowl. Pour half of the garlic Parmesan sauce over the wings and toss until evenly coated. This first coating creates a base layer that bakes into the skin. Increase the oven temperature to 475°F. Arrange the sauced wings back on the baking sheet and return them to the oven for 8-10 minutes. Watch carefully during this stage to prevent burning. The high heat caramelizes the sauce and creates an extra-crispy exterior. For additional browning, you can broil for the final 1-2 minutes.

6-Step 6: Final Sauce and Serve Remove the wings from the oven and transfer them back to your bowl. Pour the remaining garlic Parmesan sauce over the hot wings and toss to coat. The residual heat helps the cheese melt fully into a smooth coating. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for presentation. Serve immediately while hot and crispy. These wings pair wonderfully with celery sticks and ranch dressing, or alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal. For more delicious chicken recipes, check out this parmesan crusted chicken that’s perfect for family dinners.