Keto Garlic Parmesan Wings (Air Fryer)

These are air fryer chicken wings seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder and smoked paprika, cooked until crisp at 400°F, then tossed straight out of the basket in a mix of melted butter, minced garlic and grated Parmesan. The recipe serves 4 and has about 1 gram of carbohydrates per serving, so it works for a keto diet.

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Prep takes 10 minutes and the wings cook for 30, so the whole thing is 40 minutes. The butter and cheese coating is made while the wings are in the air fryer.

What Goes on the Wings

The amounts are in the recipe card at the bottom. These are the parts that matter.

• Chicken wings (2 pounds): pre-cut wings save time if you are in a hurry.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): helps the wings crisp.
• Garlic powder, onion powder and smoked paprika (1 teaspoon each): the dry seasoning. The paprika adds a smoky depth that goes with the garlic and cheese.
• Salt (1 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): the basic seasoning.
• Parmesan (1/2 cup, grated): the cheese in the garlic Parmesan coating.
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted) and garlic (3 cloves, minced): the rest of the coating. Pre-minced garlic saves prep time.
• Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, optional): a garnish.

Getting the Wings Crisp

Pat the wings dry with paper towels before seasoning. Moisture keeps them from crisping. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F, then toss the wings in a large bowl with the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper until they are evenly coated.

Put the wings in the basket in a single layer, without overcrowding, so the hot air can circulate. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes and flip them halfway through. They are done when they are golden brown and crispy. A meat thermometer should read 165°F.

While they cook, mix the melted butter, minced garlic and Parmesan in a small bowl. When the wings come out of the air fryer, toss them in the mixture right away so they are well coated. Garnish with parsley if you like and serve hot.

Variations

• Spicy: add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
• Lemon herb: stir lemon zest and fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme into the garlic Parmesan mixture.
• BBQ: coat the cooked wings with a sugar-free BBQ sauce.
• Other seasonings: Italian herbs also work in the dry mix.

What to Serve With Them

Celery sticks with ranch dressing are the classic pairing, since the cool crunch balances the rich wings. A cucumber salad with feta is lighter and adds crunch. Sparkling water with lemon or lime goes well with the wings.

FAQ

Can I use frozen wings?

Yes. Thaw them completely before seasoning and cooking. If you are short on time, you can cook them from frozen, but they may need an extra 5 to 10 minutes.

How do you store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring the crispness back.

Can I use something other than Parmesan?

A blend of your favorite hard cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano, works. Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free alternative that adds a cheesy flavor.

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Written and edited by The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team

The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team writes and edits the recipes on Foodie Yummy: classic American potluck salads, holiday sides and easy comfort food, with a few low-carb options. Every recipe lists exact quantities, numbered steps and a printable recipe card, plus notes on swaps, storage and make-ahead timing. Spot a problem with a recipe? Tell us through the contact page and we will correct it. About us