Craving B-Dubs? Make Parmesan Chicken at Home!
The aroma of crispy chicken wings coated in flavorful sauce, the lively atmosphere, and the promise of a satisfying meal – these are just a few things that make Buffalo Wild Wings a favorite for many. But what if you could recreate one of their most popular dishes, the Parmesan Garlic Chicken, right in your own kitchen? Forget the takeout lines and the travel time. This recipe will show you how to bring the Buffalo Wild Wings experience to your dining table, offering a simple, yet incredibly delicious way to enjoy your favorite flavors without leaving the comfort of your home.
The Allure of Parmesan Garlic Chicken
So, what is it about the Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Chicken that keeps people coming back for more? It’s a symphony of textures and flavors working in perfect harmony. First, you have the chicken itself, ideally crispy on the outside and delightfully juicy on the inside. This textural contrast is crucial. Then comes the star of the show – the Parmesan Garlic sauce. This isn’t your average sauce; it’s a creamy, garlicky, parmesan-infused masterpiece. The combination of rich parmesan, pungent garlic, and a hint of buttery goodness creates an irresistible taste profile that is both comforting and intensely flavorful.
The taste is savory and rich. The tanginess plays against the richness of the cheese and butter, and that garlic presence makes it truly unforgettable. People adore this flavor combination because it hits all the right notes: it’s savory, cheesy, and a little bit indulgent. It’s the perfect comfort food, ideal for game day, movie nights, or simply when you’re craving a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Gather Your Ingredients
To embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll need a few key ingredients. The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the final flavor, so choose wisely.
For the Chicken:
- About a pound and a half of boneless, skinless chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Marinade ingredients (optional but highly recommended): One cup buttermilk, one teaspoon garlic powder, half a teaspoon paprika, salt and pepper to taste
For the Breading:
- One and a half cups all-purpose flour
- Half a cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Two teaspoons garlic powder
- One teaspoon paprika
- Half a teaspoon salt
- Quarter teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: One teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Parmesan Garlic Sauce:
- Half a cup unsalted butter
- Four cloves garlic, minced
- One cup heavy cream (or milk, for a lighter version)
- One cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: One teaspoon Italian seasoning, chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Regarding substitutions, you could use different types of hard cheese in place of parmesan, like pecorino romano. Milk alternatives will also work but might affect the creaminess. For the Parmesan Garlic sauce, using freshly grated Parmesan cheese is highly suggested for the best flavor and texture, while pre-shredded might not melt as smoothly.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Preparation is Key
First, prep your chicken. If using chicken breasts, cut them into bite-sized pieces. For a more flavorful and tender chicken, consider marinating it. Simply combine the chicken with the buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes, or up to a few hours. The buttermilk will help tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
Next, prepare the breading. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and optional Italian seasoning. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Finally, get your sauce ingredients ready. Mince the garlic and have all other ingredients measured out and within reach. This will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
Cooking the Chicken to Perfection
Now for the fun part – cooking the chicken! Begin by breading the chicken. If you marinated it, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Dredge each piece of chicken in the breading mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Press the breading gently to help it adhere to the chicken.
There are three primary methods for cooking the chicken, each with its own advantages. Below are instructions for baking, air frying, and pan-frying.
Baking Instructions
Preheat your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the breaded chicken pieces on the baking sheet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Bake for fifteen to twenty minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown. For extra crispy chicken, consider broiling it for the last few minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Air Frying Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to three hundred and seventy-five degrees Fahrenheit. Place the breaded chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Air fry for ten to fifteen minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning.
Pan Frying Instructions
Heat about a quarter inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken pieces in the skillet, again making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for three to four minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Crafting the Parmesan Garlic Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the Parmesan Garlic sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make the sauce bitter.
Pour in the heavy cream (or milk) and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in the optional Italian seasoning. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Bringing It All Together
Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the dish. Place the cooked chicken pieces in a large bowl. Pour the Parmesan Garlic sauce over the chicken and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Tips for Optimal Flavor and Texture
Achieving crispy chicken requires a few key techniques. First, make sure the chicken is as dry as possible before breading. Excess moisture will prevent the breading from adhering properly and result in soggy chicken. Don’t overcrowd the pan, oven, or air fryer. Overcrowding lowers the temperature and causes the chicken to steam rather than crisp. Make sure each piece of chicken has enough room to brown evenly. A high enough temperature is necessary for optimal crispiness. Don’t be afraid to slightly increase the cooking heat, and remember to monitor regularly.
Perfecting the sauce also requires attention to detail. Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Adjust the amount of garlic to your personal preference. Some people prefer a more intense garlic flavor, while others prefer a more subtle taste. Be careful not to let the sauce boil vigorously, as this can cause it to separate and become grainy.
If you’re looking to make the dish healthier, consider baking or air frying instead of frying. Using low-fat milk or cream will help reduce the fat content of the sauce. You can also use less butter, or substitute some of the butter with olive oil.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and make the dish your own. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat. Try adding different spices to the breading, such as cayenne pepper, onion powder, or smoked paprika. The possibilities are endless!
Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings
This Parmesan Garlic Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Classic sides like french fries and onion rings are always a good choice. Celery sticks and carrot sticks with ranch or blue cheese dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can also help balance the flavors.
As for dipping sauces, ranch dressing and blue cheese dressing are traditional accompaniments to wings and chicken tenders. The cool, creamy flavors of these sauces complement the savory and garlicky notes of the Parmesan Garlic Chicken.
When it comes to drinks, a cold beer is a classic pairing for wings. Light lagers and IPAs are particularly well-suited to cut through the richness of the dish. Soda and iced tea are also good options for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
If you happen to have leftovers, store the chicken and sauce separately for the best results. Store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store the sauce in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days as well.
To reheat the chicken, the oven or air fryer are the best options for maintaining crispness. Preheat your oven or air fryer to three hundred and fifty degrees Fahrenheit. Place the chicken on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket and reheat for five to ten minutes, or until heated through. The microwave is a less ideal option, as it can make the chicken soggy. If you must use the microwave, heat it in short intervals to prevent overcooking.
To reheat the sauce, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has become too thick during storage.
Enjoy Restaurant-Quality Flavor at Home
This Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Chicken recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without leaving your kitchen. Recreating this favorite flavor is easier than you think. Are you ready to try making this at home?
So, ditch the takeout menus and roll up your sleeves! With a few simple ingredients and these easy-to-follow instructions, you can enjoy the deliciousness and convenience of making this iconic dish at home. Enjoy the Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Chicken experience, crafted in your own culinary space!
