Cacio e Pepe Baked Chicken Wings

If you love wings but want something a little more elevated, these Cacio e Pepe Baked Chicken Wings are your new go-to. Imagine golden, crispy wings coated in buttery, cheesy goodness, with a punch of black pepper that keeps every bite exciting. These wings aren’t just finger food—they’re a flavor experience.

Perfect for game day, casual get-togethers, or a cozy night in, this recipe combines the comforting indulgence of chicken wings with the sophistication of a classic Italian pasta sauce. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll never go back to plain old buffalo wings.

Recipe Origin

Inspired by the classic Italian pasta dish Cacio e Pepe—which means “cheese and pepper”—these wings borrow the same simple, bold flavors. Parmesan cheese provides richness and umami, while freshly cracked black pepper gives a tantalizing kick. Baking instead of frying keeps them easy and less messy, making them perfect for home cooks who still want maximum flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Wire rack (optional, for extra crispiness)
• Parchment paper or foil
• Grater for Parmesan
• Small saucepan (for melting butter)
• Tongs for tossing wings

Why You’ll Love Cacio e Pepe Baked Chicken Wings

Crispy & Flavorful

The wings get crispy in the oven and then are coated with a buttery, cheesy, peppery glaze that hits all the right notes.

Easy & No-Fuss

No frying required, and the ingredients are pantry staples for an easy weeknight or party-ready dish.

Crowd-Pleasing

Kids, adults, sports fans, and foodies alike will devour these wings.

Sophisticated Twist

Simple ingredients, bold flavors—an Italian-inspired take that feels fancy but is easy to make.

Customizable

Add extra spice, swap cheeses, or experiment with garlic for your own signature twist.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Pat wings dry: Ensures maximum crispiness in the oven.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese won’t stick or melt as beautifully.
• Melted butter is key: Tossing wings in butter before adding cheese helps it cling and boosts flavor.
• Season generously: Don’t be shy with salt, garlic, or pepper.
• Optional wire rack: Placing wings on a rack lets air circulate and keeps them extra crispy.

Ingredients in Cacio e Pepe Baked Chicken Wings

(Note: Full measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Chicken Wings

Organic wings, drumettes, and flats—patted dry for crispy perfection.

Parmigiano Reggiano

Freshly grated, fluffy, and indulgent; the star of the dish.

Black Pepper

Finely ground in the mixture, plus coarse for finishing—a bold, peppery punch.

Butter

Melted to help cheese stick and add richness.

Granulated Garlic & Salt

Enhances and layers flavors without overpowering the delicate cheese and pepper.

Olive Oil

Helps the wings crisp in the oven.

Fresh Parsley

Chopped and sprinkled on top for a fresh, vibrant garnish.

Instructions

Preheat Your Oven

Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.

Prepare the Wings

Pat wings dry with paper towels. Toss with olive oil, salt, and granulated garlic.

Bake

Arrange wings on the baking sheet, leaving space between them. Bake for 40–45 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and golden.

Melt the Butter

While wings bake, melt butter in a small saucepan.

Toss Wings

When wings are done, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Toss with melted butter to coat.

Add Cheese & Pepper

Sprinkle freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano and finely ground black pepper over the wings. Toss until evenly coated. Finish with coarse black pepper for extra kick.

Serve & Garnish

Plate wings on a serving tray and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately and watch them disappear.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4–6
Calories per serving: ~400
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve Cacio e Pepe Baked Chicken Wings

• As an Appetizer: Perfect for game day or a casual party.
• With Dips: Serve alongside ranch, blue cheese, or a garlic aioli.
• As a Main Dish: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.
• Finger Food: Ideal for casual gatherings or a snack with drinks.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can prep wings the night before—pat, season, and store in the fridge. Bake fresh before serving.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Version: Add cayenne, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the butter toss.
• Cheese Twist: Mix in a bit of Pecorino Romano with the Parmesan for extra sharpness.
• Herbal Notes: Add rosemary or thyme to the olive oil seasoning for an aromatic twist.
• Garlic Lovers: Roast fresh garlic with wings or sprinkle garlic powder over cheese for extra punch.

Additional Tips

• Grate cheese fresh: Pre-grated cheese tends to clump and doesn’t stick as well.
• Don’t overcrowd: Wings need space on the baking sheet to crisp evenly.
• Toss gently: Preserve the crispy coating when mixing in butter and cheese.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I bake these wings at a lower temperature?
A1: Yes, but crispiness is best achieved at 425°F (220°C).

Q2: Can I use frozen wings?
A2: Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before baking.

Q3: Can I make this recipe without butter?
A3: You can, but the butter helps the cheese stick and enhances flavor.

Q4: Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
A4: Freshly grated gives the best texture and flavor.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A5: Yes, just bake in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Q6: How do I make these extra crispy?
A6: Use a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow air circulation.

Q7: Can I prepare the seasoning mix ahead of time?
A7: Absolutely! Store in an airtight container until ready to toss.

Q8: Can I add a glaze?
A8: Yes! A light honey-butter glaze adds sweetness and balances the pepper.

Q9: Can I use drumsticks instead of wings?
A9: Drumsticks work, but baking time will need to increase slightly.

Q10: What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
A10: Reheat in the oven to preserve crispiness, then toss again in a bit of fresh Parmesan and pepper.

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Conclusion

These Cacio e Pepe Baked Chicken Wings are simple, elegant, and irresistible. Crispy, cheesy, and perfectly peppery, they’re a fresh twist on a classic favorite. Whether it’s game day, a casual dinner, or a fun snack, these wings deliver big flavor with minimal fuss.

Once you try them, you’ll be reaching for Parmesan and black pepper every time you make wings. It’s a game-changer, a crowd-pleaser, and a new kitchen favorite all in one.

Watch how to make these crispy wings with a creamy peppery sauce