There’s something special about gathering around a table filled with delicious food, and my latest obsession, Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings, embodies that warmth perfectly. Just imagine the rich aroma of garlicky butter wafting through your home as these tender wings slowly cook to perfection. Picture this: you invite friends over for the big game, and instead of the same old takeout, you whip up a batch of these homemade beauties that are guaranteed to disappear in minutes. With an effortless cooking method, you get to enjoy juicy, fall-off-the-bone wings that finish off crispy under the broiler, giving you the best of both worlds. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer for a party or a cozy dinner treat, these wings are an easy and satisfying choice. Plus, they can be tailored for any dietary needs, making them as versatile as they are delicious. Let’s dive into making this heavenly dish that’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Why Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings are a Must-Try?
Tender and Juicy: Each bite of these wings is bursting with flavor, thanks to the slow cooking method that locks in all the rich garlic and butter essence.
Easy Preparation: Just toss the ingredients in the slow cooker, set it, and relax while the magic happens!
Crispy Finish: A quick broil adds that irresistible crunch, combining the best of both worlds—tender meat and crispy skin.
Customizable Options: Whether you’re gluten-free or dairy-free, you can easily modify this recipe to suit your dietary needs.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for game day, parties, or a simple family dinner, they’re sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more!
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings Ingredients
For the Wings
• Chicken Wings – Fresh, frozen, or thawed, all work great so you can use what you have on hand!
• Salt – Enhances flavor; use to taste for perfectly seasoned wings.
• Black Pepper – Adds mild heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
For the Flavor
• Garlic – Freshly minced (6 to 8 cloves) for maximum depth, or substitute with garlic powder if in a pinch.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; dairy-free? Use margarine instead!
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated is essential for that classic garlic parmesan taste; pre-grated won’t deliver the same flavor.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the garlic flavor; feel free to adjust for intensity.
For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness, making your dish look as good as it tastes!
These Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings are not just simple to make; they promise an explosion of flavors that will leave you and your guests craving more!
How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings
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Prepare Wings: Place the chicken wings in a single layer in your slow cooker. This helps ensure they cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors.
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Add Seasoning: Top the wings with unsalted butter, freshly grated parmesan, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix it all together gently, allowing the seasonings to coat the wings beautifully.
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Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or on LOW for 4-5 hours. You want the wings to be tender and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Broil: Preheat your oven broiler. Line a baking sheet with foil, grease it, and arrange the wings in a single layer on the sheet. Brush with any remaining garlic butter from the slow cooker, then broil for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway, until they’re crispy and golden brown.
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Serve: Garnish the wings with freshly chopped parsley and sprinkle with additional parmesan cheese before serving hot. Watch them disappear at your gathering!
Optional: Serve with ranch or chipotle aioli for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can marinate the wings with the garlic, butter, parmesan, and spices up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the seasonings and coat the wings in a large bowl or zip-top bag, then refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. This not only saves time but enhances the flavor as the wings soak up all that deliciousness. When you’re ready to serve, just place the marinated wings in your slow cooker, set it and forget it, cooking on HIGH for 3-4 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours. Finish them off with a quick broil for that irresistible crispy texture. Enjoy the same mouthwatering taste with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings
Fridge: Store leftover slow cooker garlic parmesan wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the wings in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for optimal texture and flavor.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings
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Cook Time Matters: Adjust cooking based on your slow cooker; different models can vary significantly in heat levels. Check wings for tenderness around the 3-hour mark.
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Prevent Sogginess: If using frozen wings, drain excess liquid after cooking to prevent soggy wings. Always aim for that crispy skin!
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Broil Wisely: Keep a close eye on wings while broiling, as browning can happen quickly. Flip at the halfway mark for even crispiness.
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Extra Flavor Boost: For a little kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the seasoning before cooking your Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings.
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Fresh is Best: Opt for freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-grated for a richer flavor. It’s a small change that makes a big difference!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings?
Imagine a satisfying feast that perfectly complements the tender, buttery wings you’ve just made; it’s all about creating the ideal meal together.
- Crispy French Fries: The golden crunch of fries adds a delightful contrast to the tender wings, making every bite an adventure!
- Garlic Bread: Slathered in butter and garlic, this warm bread is perfect for soaking up any savory sauces left behind on your plate.
- Tangy Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw balances the richness of the wings, adding a crisp texture and zesty zing that perks up the palate.
- Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers: These spicy bites provide an exciting kick, perfect for pairing with the buttery garlic flavor of the wings.
- Vegetable Crudités: Crisp, fresh veggie sticks served with ranch dip introduce a light side, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: A sweet and tangy dip complements the savory wings, creating a delightful balance that your taste buds will love.
- Fresh Garden Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette bring a refreshing crunch to the table, and you get a wonderful contrast of flavors.
- Sparkling Lemonade: This drink adds a zesty brightness, cutting through the richness of the wings for a perfectly refreshing sip.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: To finish off your meal, these warm cookies offer a comforting, sweet end that everyone will adore.
With such a mix of options, your Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings will shine even brighter on the dinner table!
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings Variations
Customize these wings to suit your tastes and dietary needs, creating your own unique flavor explosion!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or vegan butter for a creamy flavor without dairy.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce or red pepper flakes before cooking to elevate the heat level. It pairs beautifully with garlic!
- Different Cheeses: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago instead of parmesan for a delightful flavor twist that surprises the palate.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary along with the parsley for an aromatic boost that enhances every bite.
- Citrus Zest: Add lemon or lime zest to the wing mixture for a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness. It’s refreshing and unique!
- Maple Touch: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the wings before broiling for a hint of sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
- Garlic Lovers: Increase minced garlic to 10 cloves for an intense garlic experience that’s sure to satisfy any garlic lover out there!
- Veggie Option: Replace wings with cauliflower florets for a delicious vegetarian-friendly alternative that’s just as flavorful and satisfying.
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken wings should I use?
Absolutely! You can use fresh, frozen, or thawed wings for this recipe. Just ensure they’re preferably defrosted if you’re not cooking them straight from frozen, as this helps with even cooking and better seasoning absorption.
How should I store leftover wings?
I recommend placing any leftover slow cooker garlic parmesan wings in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining that delicious flavor and tenderness!
Can I freeze these wings for later?
Very! To freeze, first arrange the cooked wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for a couple of hours. Once they’re solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat frozen wings?
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen wings, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the wings on a baking tray, reheating them for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method keeps them crispy!
What should I do if my wings turn out soggy?
If you find your wings aren’t as crispy as you’d like, it’s often caused by excess moisture. After cooking, be sure to drain off any liquid before broiling. When broiling, keep a close eye on them to achieve that perfect golden brown finish, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Can I make these wings dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make your slow cooker garlic parmesan wings dairy-free, simply substitute the unsalted butter with margarine or olive oil, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative in place of parmesan. This way, everyone can enjoy them without worries!
These FAQs should help you nail those delicious Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings and keep everyone coming back for more!
Irresistible Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings for Game Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the chicken wings in a single layer in your slow cooker.
- Top the wings with unsalted butter, freshly grated parmesan, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix to coat the wings.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or on LOW for 4-5 hours.
- Preheat your oven broiler. Line a baking sheet with foil, grease it, and arrange the wings on the sheet. Brush with remaining garlic butter and broil for 8 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and sprinkle with additional parmesan cheese before serving.