Buffalo Wild Wings' Parmesan Garlic sauce is a fan favorite, coating their delicious tenders in a savory, irresistible flavor. While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, we can create a remarkably close approximation at home. This recipe will guide you through recreating that signature taste, allowing you to enjoy BWW's parmesan garlic goodness anytime you desire.
What Makes Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce So Special?
The magic lies in the balance of flavors: the richness of parmesan cheese, the pungent aroma of garlic, a touch of sweetness, and a hint of acidity to cut through the richness. It's not just about the ingredients; it's the masterful blend that makes this sauce so addictive. This recipe aims to capture that essence.
Ingredients for the Parmesan Garlic Sauce:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best!)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 6 cloves garlic, minced (or more, to taste!)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for a hint of smoky flavor – optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra garlicky punch)
Instructions for the Parmesan Garlic Sauce:
- Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Don't let it brown.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it will become bitter.
- Combine ingredients: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, paprika (if using), and garlic powder (if using).
- Simmer and thicken: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has slightly thickened and the cheese is melted and smooth.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want more garlic, lemon juice, or salt to your preference.
Preparing the Chicken:
This recipe works well with chicken tenders, breasts, or even wings.
- Prepare the chicken: Cut chicken breasts into tenders or use pre-made tenders. If using wings, ensure they are cleaned and patted dry.
- Cook the chicken: You can bake, pan-fry, or air-fry the chicken until fully cooked. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes (or until internal temperature reaches 165°F) is a healthy option. Pan-frying or air-frying will require less time but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Toss with the sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, toss it generously with the prepared Parmesan Garlic sauce until fully coated.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Parmesan Garlic chicken immediately for the best flavor and texture. It's delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with:
- French fries
- Celery sticks
- Carrot sticks
- Ranch dressing (for dipping)
- Blue cheese dressing (for a contrasting flavor)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Parmesan Garlic sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before using.
Can I use different types of cheese?
While Parmesan is key to that authentic BWW flavor, you could experiment with a blend of Parmesan and Asiago or Romano for a slightly different taste.
What if I don't have fresh garlic?
You can substitute with 2-3 teaspoons of garlic powder, but fresh garlic provides a much more vibrant flavor.
Can I freeze the sauce?
It's not recommended to freeze the sauce as the texture may change upon thawing.
This recipe provides a delicious and relatively accurate recreation of Buffalo Wild Wings' Parmesan Garlic chicken. Enjoy experimenting with the seasonings to find your perfect balance of flavors! Remember to always cook chicken to a safe internal temperature.
