01 - Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Position a wire rack over the lined baking sheet.
02 - Thoroughly pat the chicken wings dry using paper towels. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried wings with baking powder (if using), salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Toss until the wings are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
03 - Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the prepared wire rack. Bake for 25 minutes. Carefully flip each wing and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes, or until the wings are golden brown and achieve a crispy texture.
04 - While the wings are baking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
05 - Once the wings are fully baked and crispy, transfer them to a clean, large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared garlic butter mixture over the wings. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Toss gently to ensure all wings are thoroughly coated with the sauce.
06 - Serve the garlic Parmesan chicken wings immediately. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.