Have you ever sat at Buffalo Wild Wings, biting into their famous buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan chicken, and wondered, “Could I make this at home?” Spoiler alert: the answer is a resounding YES! Imagine savoring that same golden-crusted, garlic-kissed, cheesy goodness from the comfort of your own kitchen. No expensive restaurant bill, no waiting in line just you, your apron, and a plate of deliciousness. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make Buffalo Wild Wings garlic parmesan chicken at home. It’s easy, fun, and oh-so-satisfying!
Table of Contents
Overview: Why This Recipe Rocks
This garlic parmesan chicken is special because it strikes the perfect balance between crispy, savory, and cheesy. It’s a dish that packs bold flavors without overwhelming your taste buds. Whether you’re craving a weeknight dinner or looking to impress your family at the next game night, this recipe has your back.
- Time Requirement: The entire process takes about 45 minutes, including prep and cooking time. That’s quicker than most takeout deliveries!
- Difficulty Level: Beginner-friendly. You don’t need to be a Michelin-star chef to pull this off just follow the steps, and you’ll be golden.
Essential Ingredients: The Heroes of this Dish
Let’s break down the must-haves for creating Buffalo Wild Wings garlic parmesan chicken. These ingredients are the foundation of flavor, so choose wisely!
- Chicken Tenders or Strips: Why? Because tenders cook evenly and are easy to handle. If you can’t find tenders, boneless chicken breasts cut into strips work just fine.
- Substitution: Turkey breast can be a lean alternative if chicken isn’t your thing.
- All-Purpose Flour + Cornstarch: This combo creates the perfect crispy texture when fried or baked. Cornstarch is the secret weapon for extra crunch.
- Substitution: For a gluten-free version, swap with almond flour or a certified gluten-free flour blend.
- Eggs: Eggs act as the glue that sticks the coating to the chicken. Beat them well for an even layer.
- Substitution: Use buttermilk for a tangy twist if you’re out of eggs.
- Garlic Powder and Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic adds pungency, while garlic powder deepens the flavor. Use both for maximum impact.
- Tip: If you’re not a fan of chopping garlic, jarred minced garlic works too.
- Parmesan Cheese: Shredded parmesan is essential for that nutty, cheesy kick. Go for freshly grated if possible—it melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
- Substitution: Grana Padano or Asiago cheese can also do the trick.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is key for the signature garlic parmesan sauce. It’s rich, creamy, and ties everything together.
- Substitution: Margarine or ghee works in a pinch.
- Italian-Style Breadcrumbs: These add texture and a hint of herbs. Feel free to toast them lightly for extra crunch.
- Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Parsley): Keep it simple. These spices enhance the other flavors without overpowering them.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Your Path to Perfection
Now comes the fun part putting it all together. Here’s how to make this crave-worthy garlic parmesan chicken at home.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Rinse your chicken tenders under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the breading stick better.
- Cut the tenders into uniform sizes for even cooking.
Step 2: Create the Breading Station
- Set up three bowls for easy dipping:
- Bowl 1: Mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Crack and whisk eggs.
- Bowl 3: Combine Italian breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, and parsley.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Next, dip it into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, patting gently to adhere. Place the breaded strips on a plate.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Option A: Baking
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
- Arrange the breaded chicken on the rack, leaving space between each piece for airflow. Spray lightly with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
Option B: Pan-Frying
- Heat vegetable oil or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken strips in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Stir in shredded parmesan until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
Step 6: Toss the Chicken
- Place the cooked chicken in a large bowl. Drizzle the garlic parmesan sauce over the top.
- Gently toss to coat each piece evenly. Voila! Your buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan chicken is ready.
Assembly: How to Plate Like a Pro
Presentation matters, right? Here’s how to serve this dish with flair:
- Garnishes: Sprinkle chopped parsley or extra grated parmesan on top for a pop of color and flavor.
- Sides: Pair with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping enthusiasts.
For a fun twist, arrange the chicken on a platter with toothpicks or mini skewers for easy snacking.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips: Keep the Goodness Going
Got leftovers? No problem. Store them properly, and you’ll have tasty chicken waiting for you later.
- Storage: Place cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep any extra sauce in a separate container.
- Reheating: To preserve crispiness, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
- Make-Ahead Tips: Bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge (up to 24 hours) or freezer (up to 1 month). Simply bake or fry when ready to eat.
Recipe Variations: Get Creative!
Love experimenting? Try these fun twists:
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic parmesan sauce for a fiery flair.
- Veggie Swap: Use zucchini or cauliflower florets instead of chicken for a vegetarian option.
- Buffalo Twist: Mix hot sauce into the butter-garlic mixture for a buffalo-style version.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the breading and marinate chicken strips in the garlic parmesan sauce before grilling.
Conclusion: Your Kitchen, Your Rules
Congratulations you now know how to make buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan chicken at home! This recipe proves that you don’t need a fancy restaurant to enjoy bold, comforting flavors. With its crispy exterior, cheesy goodness, and quick prep time, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and give it a try. Experiment, tweak, and make it your own. After all, the best meals are the ones made with love and shared with those you care about. Happy cooking!
FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions
Q: Is this recipe healthy?
A: It’s relatively balanced. Baking instead of frying reduces fat content, and using fresh ingredients boosts nutritional value. For an even healthier spin, opt for whole-grain breadcrumbs or skip the breading altogether.
Q: Can I freeze the chicken?
A: Absolutely! Freeze unbaked breaded chicken on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen; just increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes.
Q: What’s the best way to ensure crispy chicken?
A: Use cornstarch in your flour mix, don’t overcrowd the pan, and pat the chicken dry before breading. If baking, add a wire rack to promote airflow.
Q: Can kids help with this recipe?
A: Definitely! Tasks like breading the chicken or garnishing are great for little hands. Just supervise the stove and oven for safety.
Q: How do I make the sauce thicker?
A: Simmer it longer on the stove to reduce the liquid content. You can also mix in a tiny bit of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) for thicker consistency.
There you have it a foolproof guide to making buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan chicken at home. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to delight. Now go forth and conquer the kitchen! 🌟
For more comforting dishes, check out our guide to Chicken and Cheese Jalousie Recipe, another simple yet satisfying meal option.