Name: Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 195 min
Total time: 200 min
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper; 4 pounds chicken wings (fresh or frozen); 0.5 cup salted butter; 0.33 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 4 cloves garlic (pressed)

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There’s just something about the aroma of Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings filling the house that makes me feel right at home. I can remember the first time I made these wings; it was a chilly winter afternoon, and I wanted to create a dish that would warm not just my body but also my spirit. As the savory scent of garlic and Parmesan wafted through the air, I knew I was onto something special. Friends and family gathered around the table, their eyes lighting up with anticipation. Each bite was crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and slathered in a rich buttery sauce that had everyone reaching for seconds.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. It’s perfect for those busy days when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, let it do its magic, and then finish it off in the oven to achieve that perfect golden crisp. Whether it’s game day, a cozy family dinner, or just a treat for yourself, these wings never disappoint. They’re the ultimate comfort food, and I can’t wait for you to try them!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
3 hr 20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
195 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
32 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
36 g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Wooden Spoon, Oven, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Slow Cooker

The Charm of This Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings

Irresistible Flavor

The combination of butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. The wings soak up all that goodness while slow cooking, resulting in a rich taste that captivates every palate.

Effortless Cooking

Using a slow cooker means you can prepare this dish with minimal effort. Just season your chicken wings, place them in the pot, and let the cooker work its magic while you go about your day.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just craving something tasty, Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings are a hit. They’re great for parties, movie nights, or even just a simple family dinner.

Crispy Finish

After slow cooking, a quick trip to the oven gives the wings that desired crispy exterior. The contrast between the tender meat and the crispy skin elevates this dish to a whole new level.

Customizable Recipe

This recipe is highly adaptable! You can tweak the spices or incorporate different sauces to cater to your taste preferences. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some heat with crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike love these wings! They are an excellent way to get everyone excited about dinner time, especially when served with their favorite dipping sauces.

Main Ingredients for Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings

The ingredients in Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings come together to create a perfect symphony of flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role – the chicken wings provide the base, while the aromatic garlic and creamy Parmesan cheese elevate this dish to a beloved classic. Fresh herbs like parsley add a burst of color and freshness, making each bite not just delicious, but visually appealing as well.

1 teaspoon salt – A key seasoning that enhances all the flavors in the dish.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a warm, smoky depth that perfectly complements the chicken wings.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Intensifies the garlic flavor and adds a lovely aroma.
1 teaspoon onion powder – Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the wings.
½ teaspoon ground black pepper – Offers a hint of spice to balance the richness of the sauce.
4 pounds chicken wings, fresh or frozen – The star of the show, providing juicy, tender meat.
½ cup salted butter – Creates a rich, buttery sauce that coats the wings beautifully.
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish – Adds a cheesy finish that elevates the dish.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – A fresh herb that brightens the dish and adds color.
4 cloves garlic, pressed – Fresh garlic provides an aromatic and flavorful base.

Making This Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings

Making Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings is a delightful experience. The anticipation builds as you prepare the ingredients and smell the savory aromas taking over your kitchen. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious dish that impresses everyone.

In a small bowl, combine salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper. Mix well until all the spices are thoroughly blended. This seasoning mix is essential for enhancing the flavor of your chicken wings.
Place the chicken wings in the slow cooker. Make sure to spread them out to allow even cooking. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the wings, stirring gently to ensure they are coated evenly on all sides. This step ensures every bite is filled with flavor.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid, and set to cook on high for three to four hours or low for five to six hours. The long, slow cooking process will tenderize the wings, making them juicy and flavorful.
Once the cooking time is complete, preheat your oven to 425˚F. This will be crucial for achieving that crispy finish. While the oven heats up, carefully remove the wings from the crockpot and place them in a large bowl.
Tip: The drier the wings are, the better the sauce will cling. So, when transferring them to the bowl, try to remove as much excess liquid as possible. This step is important for that perfect crispy texture you’re aiming for.
In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and pressed garlic. This buttery mixture will coat the wings beautifully.
Pour the buttery sauce over the wings in the large bowl and toss them gently until all the wings are well-coated. This is where the magic happens, transforming the tender wings into a savory delight.
Lay the wings out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Place the baking sheet on the top rack of your preheated oven and cook for 15 to 18 minutes. Keep an eye on the wings as they cook, allowing the edges to become golden and crispy.
After 15 to 18 minutes, remove the wings from the oven. Brush them with additional sauce from the bowl for an extra kick of flavor. If desired, garnish with more Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.
Serve your delicious Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings hot and enjoy the compliments!

Things Worth Knowing

Slow Cooking Benefits: Cooking wings in a slow cooker allows for maximum flavor infusion and tenderness. The longer cooking time breaks down the connective tissues, making the meat fall-off-the-bone tender.
Achieving Crispiness: For the best texture, ensure the wings are dry before placing them in the oven. Patting them down with paper towels can help remove excess moisture.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices or sauces to create your own version of Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings. Adding a touch of hot sauce can create a delightful spicy twist!
Cooking Times: Keep an eye on the cooking times. If you prefer your wings extra crispy, you can leave them in the oven a little longer, but be cautious not to overcook them.

Expert Tips about Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings

When it comes to perfecting Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings, these expert tips will lead you to success. Let’s dive into some practical insights to elevate your wings to a whole new level.

Storage: Let wings cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This helps retain their flavor and texture for later enjoyment.
Freezing: This recipe freezes well. To freeze, allow the wings to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to three months.
Pairing: Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing, to complement the rich flavors of the wings.
Scaling Up: This recipe can easily be doubled for gatherings. Just ensure your slow cooker is large enough. You may need multiple baking sheets for the crisping step.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave in 30-second increments until warmed through, or place them back in the oven to recapture that crispy finish.
Spice It Up: Feel free to add a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce to the butter mixture for a spicy version of Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings.

Perfect Matches for Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings, you want to create a meal that’s satisfying and enjoyable. Here are some perfect matches that elevate your dining experience:

Fresh Veggies: Pair your wings with a platter of fresh vegetables like carrots and celery for a crunchy contrast, along with your dipping sauces.
Fries: Serve with crispy fries or sweet potato fries for a hearty meal that everyone will love.
Salads: A light salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy dressing provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the wings.
Party Platters: These wings are great for game day or parties. Serve them alongside other finger foods like mini sliders and stuffed mushrooms.
Casual Gatherings: Perfect for casual family dinners or movie nights, they bring everyone together for a fun meal.
Seasonal Occasions: Ideal for winter gatherings, they will warm your guests and create a cozy atmosphere.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken wings for this recipe. Just remember that if you use frozen wings, they might need a little extra cooking time, so check for doneness before serving. Cooking from frozen can also ensure that the wings remain juicy and tender as they cook slowly.

To achieve extra crispy wings, make sure you dry them well before placing them in the oven. You can also broil them for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time to get an even crisper texture. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

These Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings pair wonderfully with a range of side dishes. Consider serving them with fresh vegetable sticks, a light salad, or crispy fries for a complete meal. Dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing also complement the flavors beautifully.

Yes, you can definitely make these wings in advance! After cooking them, allow them to cool and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can reheat them when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings are not just a dish; they’re an experience that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. The combination of tender wings with rich, flavorful sauce is sure to be a hit at your table. I encourage you to try making these wings for your next gathering or cozy night in. You won’t regret it!