Buffalo Wild Wings' Parmesan Garlic chicken is a fan favorite, known for its savory, garlicky flavor and satisfying crunch. While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, we can craft a delicious copycat version that captures the essence of this popular dish. This recipe will guide you through recreating this flavorful chicken at home, answering common questions along the way.
What Makes Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Chicken Unique?
The magic lies in a perfect balance of savory garlic, rich parmesan cheese, and a satisfyingly crispy coating. It's not just about the individual ingredients but the precise blend and cooking method that elevates this dish above a simple breaded chicken. The key is achieving that crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy and tender inside.
How to Make Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Chicken at Home
This recipe aims to replicate the flavor profile as closely as possible. While we can't guarantee an exact match to their proprietary blend, the results will be impressively similar!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Marinate (Optional): For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator). This helps tenderize the chicken and allows the flavors to penetrate.
- Prepare the Breading: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (about 350°F), carefully add the breaded chicken pieces, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. This significantly reduces the fat content. You can also use a cooking spray instead of oil for baking or frying.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don't have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to curdle.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook it. However, frying or baking is best done immediately before serving for optimal crispiness.
What dipping sauces pair well with Parmesan Garlic Chicken?
Buffalo Wild Wings' signature sauces would pair perfectly! Ranch or blue cheese dressings are also classic choices. A simple marinara sauce or honey mustard could also be delightful complements.
Can I use different types of cheese?
While Parmesan is key to the original flavor profile, you could experiment with other hard cheeses like Asiago or Romano for a slightly different taste. However, keep in mind that Parmesan's unique flavor is essential to the overall recipe.
This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a taste of Buffalo Wild Wings' Parmesan Garlic chicken from the comfort of your own kitchen. Experiment with different variations to create your own perfect version! Remember to adjust seasoning to your liking. Enjoy!
