Buffalo Wild Wings' Parmesan Garlic sauce is a fan favorite, known for its rich, savory, and slightly tangy flavor profile. While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, we can craft a delicious copycat version that captures the essence of this popular wing sauce. This recipe focuses on achieving that signature flavor using readily available ingredients.
What Makes Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce Unique?
The magic lies in the balance of flavors. It's not just about parmesan cheese and garlic; it's a carefully orchestrated blend of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet notes. The creamy texture also plays a crucial role in the overall experience. Our recipe aims to replicate this complexity, offering a delicious and satisfying alternative to the restaurant version.
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
- 1/4 cup minced garlic (about 6-8 cloves)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt to taste
How to Make the Parmesan Garlic Sauce:
- Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Do not let it brown.
- Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine ingredients: Stir in the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, parsley, oregano, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Reduce heat to low.
- Simmer and thicken: Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens and the flavors meld together.
- Season to taste: Remove from heat and season with salt to taste. You may need more or less depending on the saltiness of your Parmesan cheese.
Preparing the Chicken:
This recipe works well with both wings and boneless chicken.
- For Wings: Cut the wings into drumettes and flats. Toss them in the sauce after they've been cooked (baked, fried, or grilled) to ensure even coating and prevent burning.
- For Boneless Chicken: Cut boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. You can either bake, pan-fry, or air-fry the chicken before tossing in the sauce.
Tips for the Best Results:
- Use fresh ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and freshly minced garlic will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of the sauce.
- Don't overcook the garlic: Overcooked garlic can become bitter.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper, lemon juice, or other seasonings to match your preferred taste profile.
- Serve immediately: The sauce is best served fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the Parmesan Garlic sauce last?
The sauce will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
Can I freeze the Parmesan Garlic sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the sauce for up to 2 months. Allow it to thaw completely in the refrigerator before using.
What can I serve with the Parmesan Garlic chicken?
This delicious chicken is fantastic served with fries, celery sticks, carrots, or your favorite sides.
Can I make this sauce in a larger batch?
Absolutely! Just double or triple the recipe as needed.
This copycat recipe provides a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of Buffalo Wild Wings' Parmesan Garlic chicken at home. Experiment with the seasonings to perfect your own version! Remember, cooking is all about having fun and creating delicious food. Enjoy!